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Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the California Form Reg 262 can lead to confusion during vehicle or vessel transfers. Here are nine common misunderstandings:

  1. This form is the ownership certificate. Many believe that the Reg 262 serves as the ownership certificate. In reality, it is not. It must accompany the title or an application for a duplicate title.
  2. Photocopies of the form are acceptable. Some individuals think they can submit a photocopy of the Reg 262. However, only original forms with ink signatures are valid; photocopies are not accepted.
  3. The odometer disclosure can be altered. A common misconception is that minor changes to the odometer reading are permissible. Any alteration, including write-overs or cross-outs, voids the odometer disclosure.
  4. Only the seller needs to sign the form. Some assume that only the seller's signature is required. In fact, the signatures of both the buyer and seller are necessary to validate the transfer.
  5. All owners must sign if the vehicle is co-owned. It is often thought that all co-owners must sign the form. This is only true for co-owners joined by "AND." If joined by "OR," the signature of at least one owner suffices.
  6. The form is optional for gifts. Some believe that the Reg 262 is not needed if the vehicle is a gift. However, it is still required to document the transfer of ownership, even for gifts.
  7. Buyers can complete the odometer disclosure on behalf of the seller. There is a misconception that buyers can fill out the odometer disclosure if the seller is unavailable. This is incorrect; the seller must complete this section.
  8. The form does not require a mailing address. Many overlook the necessity of providing a mailing address. Both the buyer and seller must include their mailing addresses on the form.
  9. Power of attorney can be used for odometer disclosure. Some individuals mistakenly believe that a power of attorney can complete the odometer disclosure. This is not allowed; the seller must disclose the mileage directly.

Understanding these points can help ensure a smoother transaction when transferring ownership of a vehicle or vessel in California.

Detailed Steps for Filling Out California Fotm Reg 262

Filling out the California Form REG 262 is an important step in transferring ownership of a vehicle or vessel. This form must accompany the title or application for a duplicate title. It’s essential to provide accurate information, as any errors can lead to complications in the transfer process.

  1. Obtain the form: Download the California Form REG 262 from the DMV website or pick up a copy at your local DMV office.
  2. Complete Section 1: Fill in the vehicle or vessel identification number, year, model, make, and license plate or CF number. If applicable, include the motorcycle engine number.
  3. Fill out Section 2: In the bill of sale section, write the seller's name and the buyer's name. If the vehicle is a gift, indicate the relationship. Enter the date of transfer and the selling price or gift value.
  4. Complete Section 3: The seller must disclose the odometer reading. Check the appropriate box if the mileage is not actual or exceeds mechanical limits. Provide an explanation if there is a discrepancy.
  5. Fill out Section 4: Both the buyer and seller must print their names, sign, and date the form. Include driver’s license or ID numbers and mailing addresses for both parties.
  6. Complete Section 5: If appointing someone as an attorney-in-fact, print their name and sign the section. Include the date of signature.
  7. Review the form: Ensure all sections are completed accurately. Check for any missing signatures or information.
  8. Submit the form: Bring the completed REG 262 form along with the title or application for a duplicate title to the DMV for processing.

Document Preview

VEHICLE/VESSEL TRANSFER AND REASSIGNMENT FORM

A Public Service Agency

INSTRUCTIONS ON REVERSE SIDE - ALL SIGNATURES MUST BE IN INK - PHOTOCOPIES NOT ACCEPTED

This form is not the ownership certificate. It must accompany the titling document or Application for Duplicate Title. For Car Buyer's Bill of Rights, visit www.dmv.ca.gov.

ACQUISITION NUMBER (DISMANTLER ONLY)

BILL OF SALE VEHICLE/VESSEL ID

ODOMETER

BUYER

SELLER

POWER OF ATTORNEY

SECTION 1 - VEHICLE/VESSEL DESCRIPTION

 

 

IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

YEAR MODEL

 

MAKE

 

 

LICENSE PLATE/CF NO.

MOTORCYCLE ENGINE NUMBER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 2 - BILL OF SALE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I/We

 

 

 

 

 

 

sell,

transfer, and

deliver the above

vehicle/vessel

PRINT SELLER'S NAME(S)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

to

GEICO

 

on

 

 

 

 

for the amount of

$

N/A

 

 

PRINT BUYER'S NAME(S)

 

 

MO

DAY

YEAR

 

(SELLING PRICE)

If this was a gift, indicate relationship:

 

 

 

 

(e.g., parents, spouse, friend, etc.)

$

(GIFT VALUE)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 3 - ODOMETER DISCLOSURE STATEMENT (Void if Mileage is Altered or Erased)

Federal and State Law requires that you state the mileage upon transfer of ownership. Failure to complete or providing a false statement may result in fines and/or imprisonment.

The odometer now reads

,

ths (no tenths) miles, and to the best of my knowledge

 

 

10

 

reflects the ACTUAL mileage unless one of the following statements is checked.

 

WARNING - ODOMETER DISCREPANCY

Odometer reading is NOT the actual mileage

Mileage EXCEEDS the odometer mechanical limits

Explain odometer discrepancy:

 

 

 

SECTION 4 - BUYER AND SELLER (MUST hand print his or her name, date and sign this section.)

BUYER'S SECTION

I acknowledge the odometer reading and the facts of the transfer. I certify (or declare) under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

PRINT BUYER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

DATE

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

x

 

 

 

PRINT BUYER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

DATE

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

x

 

 

 

PRINT BUYER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

DATE

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

x

 

 

 

BUYER'S MAILING ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

DAYTIME TELEPHONE NO

 

 

 

 

 

SELLER'S SECTION

I certify (or declare) under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

PRINT SELLER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

 

DATE

 

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

PRINT SELLER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

 

DATE

 

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

PRINT SELLER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

 

DATE

 

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

SELLER'S MAILING ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

 

DAYTIME TELEPHONE NO

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 5 - POWER OF ATTORNEY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I/We

 

 

appoint

 

 

GEICO

 

PRINT NAME(S)

 

 

 

 

PRINT NAME(S)

as my attorney in fact, to complete all necessary documents, as needed, to transfer ownership as required by law.

SIGNATURE REQUIRED BY PERSON APPOINTING POWER OF ATIORNEY

 

 

 

DATE

 

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURE REQUIRED BY PERSON APPOINTING POWER OF ATIORNEY

 

 

 

DATE

 

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

REG 262 (REV. 10/2011)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the California Form REG 262, it's essential to approach the process with care and attention to detail. Here are some important dos and don'ts to consider:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting the form.
  • Do ensure all signatures are written in ink; electronic signatures or photocopies are not acceptable.
  • Do provide accurate information regarding the vehicle or vessel, including the identification number and odometer reading.
  • Do complete the bill of sale section accurately, including the selling price or gift value.
  • Don't alter any information on the form, as this can void the odometer disclosure.
  • Don't forget to keep a copy of the completed form for your records.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth transfer process and avoid potential issues down the line.

Key takeaways

When filling out the California Form REG 262, there are several important points to keep in mind. This form is essential for transferring ownership of a vehicle or vessel and requires careful attention to detail.

  • Not a Title: Remember, the REG 262 is not a title. It must accompany the title document or an application for a duplicate title. Make sure you have the correct documents ready to avoid delays.
  • Accurate Information: Complete all sections thoroughly. This includes vehicle identification, bill of sale, and odometer disclosure. Any inaccuracies can lead to complications, so double-check your entries.
  • Signatures Required: All signatures must be in ink. Photocopies of the form are not accepted. Ensure that both the buyer and seller sign the form, as this is crucial for the transfer process.
  • Odometer Disclosure: The odometer section must be filled out accurately. Any alterations to the mileage will void this section. If there’s a discrepancy, it must be explained clearly.

By keeping these key points in mind, you can ensure a smoother process when using the REG 262 form for vehicle or vessel transfers in California.

Similar forms

The California Form REG 262, known as the Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form, shares similarities with the Bill of Sale. A Bill of Sale serves as a legal document that records the transfer of ownership of a vehicle from a seller to a buyer. Both documents include essential information such as the names of the buyer and seller, the vehicle's identification details, and the sale price. The Bill of Sale often accompanies the REG 262 form to provide a clear record of the transaction, ensuring that both parties acknowledge the terms of the sale.

Another document similar to the REG 262 is the Odometer Disclosure Statement. This statement is required by federal and state law to disclose the vehicle's mileage at the time of sale. Like the REG 262, it requires the seller to provide accurate mileage information and is void if any alterations are made. Both documents aim to protect buyers by ensuring that they receive truthful information about the vehicle's condition, particularly concerning its mileage.

The Application for Duplicate Title also resembles the REG 262. This form is used when an individual needs to replace a lost or damaged title. Both documents facilitate the transfer of ownership, but the Application for Duplicate Title specifically addresses situations where the original title is unavailable. When submitting an Application for Duplicate Title, individuals may need to include the REG 262 to complete the ownership transfer process.

The Power of Attorney form is another document that shares characteristics with the REG 262. This form allows one person to authorize another to act on their behalf in legal matters, including vehicle transfers. In the context of the REG 262, a Power of Attorney can be used to appoint someone to complete the necessary paperwork for transferring ownership. Both documents emphasize the importance of proper authorization and clear communication between parties involved in a transaction.

The Vehicle Registration Application is similar to the REG 262 in that it is used to register a vehicle with the state. Both documents require detailed information about the vehicle and the owner. While the REG 262 is specifically for transferring ownership, the Vehicle Registration Application focuses on registering the vehicle under the new owner's name. Both forms must be completed accurately to ensure compliance with state regulations.

The California Certificate of Title is closely related to the REG 262. This document serves as the official proof of ownership for a vehicle. When a vehicle is sold, the title must be transferred to the new owner, often using the REG 262 as a supporting document. Both documents are crucial in establishing legal ownership and ensuring that the vehicle's history is accurately recorded.

The DMV’s Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability is another document that shares similarities with the REG 262. This form notifies the DMV that a vehicle has been sold and releases the seller from liability for any future incidents involving the vehicle. While the REG 262 facilitates the transfer of ownership, the Notice of Transfer serves as an additional safeguard for the seller, ensuring that they are no longer responsible for the vehicle once it has been sold.

Finally, the Vehicle/Vessel Statement of Facts form is similar to the REG 262 in that it can be used to provide additional information regarding a vehicle transaction. This form allows individuals to clarify specific details about the vehicle or the transaction that may not be covered in other forms. Both documents help ensure that all relevant information is communicated effectively during the transfer of ownership process.

Documents used along the form

The California Form REG 262 is essential for transferring vehicle or vessel ownership. However, several other documents are commonly used alongside it to ensure a smooth transaction. Below is a brief overview of these important forms.

  • Bill of Sale: This document serves as proof of the sale between the buyer and seller. It details the transaction, including the purchase price, vehicle description, and the names of both parties. It is crucial for establishing ownership transfer.
  • Odometer Disclosure Statement: Required by federal and state law, this statement must be completed to disclose the vehicle's mileage at the time of sale. It protects both the buyer and seller by ensuring accurate mileage reporting.
  • Application for Duplicate Title: If the original title is lost or damaged, this application allows the owner to request a new title. It must be submitted to the DMV along with the REG 262 form to facilitate the transfer process.
  • Power of Attorney: This document designates someone to act on behalf of the owner for the purpose of signing necessary documents for the transfer. It is especially useful if the owner cannot be present during the transaction.

Having these documents prepared and completed can significantly ease the process of transferring vehicle or vessel ownership in California. Ensure you have everything in order to avoid delays or complications.