Free Dmv Reg 138 Form in PDF

Instructions on Writing Dmv Reg 138

Filling out the DMV REG 138 form is an important step whenever you sell, transfer, or return a leased vehicle. This step is crucial for ensuring your liability for the vehicle is transferred to the new owner. By completing this form accurately and submitting it to the DMV within five days of the transaction, you protect yourself from potential legal issues that could arise from parking tickets, traffic violations, or accidents that occur after the date of sale. It's your responsibility to provide all necessary information correctly to avoid any complications in the future. Whether you choose to submit this form online or mail it, taking this action promptly is key to a smooth transfer of ownership.

1. Start by ensuring you have a black or blue ink pen and the DMV REG 138 form.
2. Enter the new owner's or company's last name in the space provided.
3. Fill in the new owner's first name.
4. Write the new owner's address, including the apartment number if applicable.
5. Input the city, state, and zip code of the new owner's address.
6. Provide the odometer reading at the time of sale, making sure not to include tenths.
7. Fill in the date of sale, transfer, or lease return (month, day, year).
8. Enter your last name (or company name) as the seller or lessee.
9. Write down the first name of the seller or lessee.
10. Indicate the selling price in whole dollars. If the vehicle is a gift, enter 0.
11. Enter your address as the seller or lessee, including the apartment number if applicable.
12. Provide the city, state, and zip code of your address.
13. Sign your name in the seller's or lessee's signature space provided.
14. Write the vehicle license or CF number.
15. Indicate the make or builder of the vehicle.
16. Fill in the year model of the vehicle.
17. Enter the vehicle ID or vessel hull number.

After completing the form, detach and keep the bottom portion for your records. Mail the top card to the DMV at the address provided: DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES, NOTICE OF TRANSFER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY, P.O. BOX 942859, SACRAMENTO, CA 94259-0001. Remember, filing this form on time is a key step in ensuring your responsibility for the vehicle ends with the sale, transfer, or lease return.

What is the purpose of the REG 138 Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability form?

The REG 138 form serves a vital role in the process of selling or transferring a vehicle or vessel in California. Its primary purpose is to officially notify the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) about the sale or transfer. This notification is crucial because it releases the previous owner from legal responsibility for the vehicle or vessel concerning parking, traffic violations, and civil litigation that may occur after the date of sale, transfer, or lease return. By completing and submitting this form properly, the seller ensures that all future liabilities are transferred to the new owner.

How can I submit the REG 138 form to the DMV?

There are two ways to submit the REG 138 form. The preferred method is by filing it online at the DMV's official website, dmv.ca.gov, which allows you to print a receipt as confirmation that the form has been received by the DMV. Alternatively, you can complete the form manually and mail it to the DMV. However, when mailing the form, you will not receive a notification confirming its receipt. Regardless of the method chosen, accurate and legible completion of the form is crucial to ensure the information is updated and retained by the DMV.

What information is required on the REG 138 form?

To complete the REG 138 form accurately, you must provide detailed information regarding the vehicle or vessel being sold or transferred. This includes the license plate or CF number, make or builder, year model, vehicle ID or vessel hull number, and odometer reading. Additionally, the form requires personal details of both the seller (or lessee) and the new owner, such as names, addresses, and the selling price or a notation if the vehicle is a gift. The date of sale, transfer, or lease return is also necessary. It's important to provide clear, legible details to ensure proper processing and release of liability.

Is there a deadline for filing the REG 138 form?

Yes, there is a legal obligation for the seller to report the sale or transfer of a vehicle or vessel to the DMV within five days of the transaction. Prompt submission of the REG 138 form within this timeframe is essential for the timely release of liability from the seller. Delaying beyond this period can lead to complications and possible continued responsibility for the vehicle or vessel until the form is properly filed.

What if I fail to submit the REG 138 form or provide inaccurate information?

Failing to submit the REG 138 form or submitting it with incomplete or incorrect information can lead to significant issues for the seller. If the form is not accurately updated or retained due to misinformation, the seller may continue to be held liable for parking, traffic violations, and civil lawsuits related to the vehicle or vessel after the sale. To prevent such outcomes, it's crucial to verify the accuracy of all provided information and ensure the form's timely submission. Additionally, keeping a copy of the completed form for your records is recommended, as it may be needed for future reference in case of disputes or notices related to the vehicle or vessel.

When completing the DMV REG 138 form, a primary mistake made is not properly filling out the form in full. This form is crucial for ensuring that liability is correctly transferred from the seller to the buyer upon the sale, transfer, or lease return of a vehicle. Incomplete forms can result in the seller remaining liable for any incidents or violations involving the vehicle.

Another frequent error is not using capital letters or the specified black or blue ink when filling out the form. This requirement is not just for uniformity; it ensures that scanned copies of the document are legible and that all information can be accurately captured and processed by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Incorrect or illegible information in critical sections, such as the vehicle or vessel description, name and address of the seller, and the new owner’s details, is a common oversight. Accurate, legible information is mandatory for the DMV to update its records and release the seller from future liabilities related to the vehicle. Misinformation or hard-to-read entries can prevent the completion of this process.

Confusion often arises with the odometer reading. Sellers sometimes mistakenly include tenths of miles instead of providing the whole number as instructed. This detail, while it seems minor, is essential for recording the accurate value at the time of sale or transfer, impacting future sales and the vehicle’s history report.

Failing to correctly identify the selling price or incorrectly marking the vehicle as a gift when it is not can lead to complications. When the vehicle is truly a gift, entering "0" for the selling price is correct. However, inaccuracies or attempts to evade taxes by misrepresenting this information can cause legal issues down the line.

The seller’s signature is often overlooked but is critical for the form’s validity. A missing signature flags the form as incomplete and can halt the transfer and release of liability process, leaving the seller unexpectedly responsible for the vehicle.

Last but certainly not least, delaying the submission of this form is a significant error. The law requires notification to the DMV within five days of the transaction. Procrastination or reliance on the buyer to submit the form increases the risk of the seller being held liable for any activity related to the vehicle after the sale. Prompt submission directly by the seller is the best practice to ensure a smooth transition of responsibility.

When completing a vehicle sale, transfer, or lease return in California, using the DMV REG 138 form (Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability) is an essential step for ensuring the seller's liability is released. Along with this form, there are other important documents that often accompany or are required in similar or subsequent transactions. Let's explore a few of these essential documents.

• Bill of Sale (REG 135): This document provides written evidence of the transfer of ownership of the vehicle from the seller to the buyer. It typically includes details about the vehicle, buyer, seller, and the sale price.
• Title or Certificate of Ownership: The title must be transferred to the new owner to complete the sale. It contains vital information about the vehicle and its legal owner.
• Application for Title or Registration (REG 343): New owners use this form to apply for a new title and register the vehicle in their name at the DMV.
• Odometer Disclosure Statement (REG 262): A document that discloses the vehicle's mileage at the time of sale. It is required for vehicles less than ten years old.
• Smog Certification: In many cases, a valid smog certificate is required for the vehicle to be registered, especially for vehicles over four years old.
• Release of Liability: While the REG 138 form itself serves this purpose, ensuring this form is properly completed and submitted is vital for the seller to avoid future liabilities.
• Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form (REG 262): This document is used when the title is not available, and the owner needs to transfer and assign ownership.

Properly completing and submitting these documents ensures a smooth transition of vehicle ownership and helps both buyers and sellers avoid potential legal and financial issues down the line. Whether you're selling your vehicle privately or trading it in, understanding the importance of each form and document can save time and prevent complications. Always check with the California DMV or a legal expert for the most current requirements and procedures.

The Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability form (REG 138) bears a striking resemblance to the Bill of Sale document. Both forms play critical roles in documenting the change of ownership for a vehicle or vessel. The Bill of Sale serves as a receipt for the transaction, detailing the sale price, buyer, and seller information, similar to how the REG 138 outlines the transaction's specifics to notify the DMV officially. However, the REG 138 focuses more on releasing the seller from future liabilities associated with the vehicle after the sale.

Another document akin to the REG 138 form is the Application for Title or Registration (REG 343). This form is used when a new owner wants to establish or transfer title and register a vehicle or vessel in their name at the DMV. Like the REG 138, the REG 343 contains detailed information about the vehicle or vessel, the sale, and buyer and seller information. Both are crucial for updating DMV records, but while the REG 138 releases a seller's liability, the REG 343 establishes the new owner's legal ownership.

The Odometer Disclosure Statement is another document similar to the REG 138. This statement is integral to the sale process, ensuring that the odometer reading at the time of sale is accurately recorded and acknowledged by both the seller and the buyer. It complements the REG 138's requirement for an odometer reading, emphasizing the importance of transparency in the vehicle's condition and history during the transfer of ownership.

The Release of Liability form found in other contexts, such as for employment or recreational activities, also shares a conceptual similarity with the DMV's REG 138. Though used in different scenarios, both forms function to legally release an individual or entity from future claims or liabilities related to the activity or item in question. The REG 138 specifically releases the seller from responsibilities pertaining to the vehicle after the sale, serving a similar purpose in the realm of vehicle transactions.

Vehicle Registration Renewal Notice is indirectly related to the REG 138 form, as it's another document from the DMV relevant to vehicle ownership and responsibilities. While this notice is a reminder to current vehicle owners about renewing their registration, it emphasizes the importance of keeping vehicle-related records updated with the DMV, a principle also underscored by the REG 138 form's purpose of updating ownership and liability information following a sale.

The Change of Address (DMV 14) form, though primarily for updating one's address with the DMV, shares the REG 138's premise of ensuring current records with the DMV. Both forms are procedural but crucial for maintaining accurate documentation. Where the Change of Address ensures correspondence and legal documents reach the owner, the REG 138 ensures the seller is not held liable for issues arising from a vehicle they no longer own.

The Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form (REG 262) is another document that complements the functionality of the REG 138. The REG 262 is used in private sales to document the transfer of ownership directly on a single form, including odometer disclosure and power of attorney, if applicable. While the REG 262 is part of securing the legal transfer between parties, the REG 138 notifies the DMV of this change and releases the seller from future liabilities.

Lastly, the Notice of Parking Violation is similar to the REG 138 in the context of post-sale liability. When a vehicle incurs a parking violation after the sale but before the new ownership is fully documented by the DMV, the REG 138 form's information becomes pivotal in diverting responsibility away from the previous owner to the correct party. While one documents a specific liability issue, the other prevents or resolves such discrepancies through timely and accurate reporting.

When completing the DMV Reg 138 form, a notice of transfer and release of liability, it's crucial to adhere to specific guidelines to ensure your liability is released promptly and accurately. To help you navigate this process successfully, here are five dos and don'ts to keep in mind:

1. Use Black or Blue Ink: Fill out the form in capital letters using black or blue ink to ensure the information is legible and the form is processed without delays.
2. Provide Accurate Information: Double-check that you've accurately entered all required details, including vehicle/vessel description, your name and address, the new owner’s name and address, and the date of sale, transfer, or lease return.
3. File Promptly: Submit the form within five days of the transaction to comply with legal requirements and facilitate timely release of liability.
4. Keep Records: Detach and retain the bottom part of the form for your records. This can serve as proof of the transaction and notification to the DMV in case of future disputes or issues.
5. Verify the New Owner's Identity: For your protection, confirm the new owner’s identity to ensure the information provided is correct and reduce the risk of liability issues down the line.

• Forget to Complete the Entire Form: Ensure no section is left blank. Incomplete forms can result in your liability not being properly released.
• Use Pencil or Non-Approved Ink Colors: Entries made in pencil or inks other than black or blue can lead to readability issues, potentially causing processing delays.
• Ignore Accuracy: Even minor errors in vehicle identification numbers (VINs), license plate numbers, or personal information can invalidate your notice of transfer.
• Mail Additional Documentation: Do not mail a copy of the bill of sale or any other documents with your REG 138 form unless specifically requested by the DMV. The REG 138 form should be sufficient for the notice of transfer and release of liability.
• Delay Submission: Failing to submit the form within the required five-day window can keep you liable for traffic or parking violations and civil litigation related to the vehicle/vessel after the sale or transfer date.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smoother process in notifying the DMV of your vehicle or vessel's sale or transfer, ultimately releasing you from future liabilities associated with it.

Many people have misconceptions about the DMV REG 138 form, which is the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability. It's important to understand the purpose and process of this form to ensure a smooth transition when selling or transferring a vehicle.

• Only the new owner needs to complete and submit the form. Both the seller and the buyer have responsibilities in this process. The seller must complete the form to notify the DMV of the change in ownership and release themselves from future liability.
• Filing the form is optional. In reality, submitting the REG 138 form is a legal requirement when selling or transferring a vehicle. It ensures that the seller is no longer liable for what happens with the vehicle after the sale.
• The form must be mailed to the DMV. While mailing the form is one option, the DMV also allows for the form to be filed online, which can provide a receipt and ensure faster processing.
• All sections of the form must be filled out in pen. The form specifically requests that it be completed in capital letters using black or blue ink, but it doesn't specify that it must be filled out in pen. It is the legibility and accuracy of the information that's most important.
• It's unnecessary to report the odometer reading if the vehicle is old. The form requires that the odometer reading, without tenths, be provided regardless of the vehicle's age, to ensure accurate records.
• You should attach a bill of sale with the form. The instructions explicitly state not to mail any additional documentation, like a bill of sale, with the REG 138 form.
• There’s no rush to submit the form after the sale. Actually, the law requires that the seller submit this form to the DMV within five days after the vehicle is sold or transferred.
• Filing the form transfers vehicle ownership. Completing and submitting the REG 138 form does not constitute an application for transfer of ownership (title). The new owner must apply for the transfer using the endorsed certificate of ownership (title) received from the seller and complete all transfer requirements.

Understanding these points and following the instructions accurately can prevent future legal troubles and ensure that liability is correctly transferred following the sale or transfer of a vehicle.

Filing the DMV Reg 138 form is essential for anyone selling or transferring a vehicle or vessel in California. This document, officially known as the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability, plays a critical role in updating the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) with the new ownership details and releasing the previous owner from future liabilities associated with the vehicle or vessel. Understanding how to properly fill out and use this form is crucial for a smooth and legally compliant transaction.

• Ensure Complete Accuracy: Accurate and legible information is essential when filling out the DMV Reg 138 form. This includes the vehicle or vessel description, your name and address, the new owner's name and address, and the date of sale, transfer, or lease return. Inaccurate or incomplete information may result in the updates not being recorded, maintaining liability for the previous owner.
• File Promptly: The law mandates that the notice be filed with the DMV within five days following the sale or transfer of the vehicle or vessel. Prompt filing ensures timely release of liability from the seller or transferor.
• Blue or Black Ink: Fill out the form using blue or black ink, ensuring that the handwriting is legible and all sections are completed fully.
• Online Submission Option: For added convenience and immediate receipt, the form can be submitted online at the California DMV's official website. This method provides a printable receipt as confirmation that the form has been received by the DMV.
• No Attachments: Do not mail any additional documents or a bill of sale with the DMV Reg 138 form if you opt to send it via mail.
• Keep Records: Detach and keep a portion of the form for your records. Having proof of submission can be invaluable in case of future disputes or if clarification with the DMV is needed.
• Responsibility Shift: Once the form is properly completed and recorded by the DMV, any liabilities for parking, traffic violations, or civil litigation related to the vehicle become the responsibility of the new owner.
• Verification of New Owner Information: For added security, consider verifying the new owner's identification. This step can help ensure that the name and address details provided on the form are accurate.
• Legal Reference: California Vehicle Code (CVC) §5602 outlines the requirements for releasing liability and can be referred to in case of any disputes related to liability after the sale, transfer, or lease return of the vehicle or vessel.

Completing and filing the DMV Reg 138 form is a straightforward process that protects both the seller and buyer by ensuring the proper transfer of vehicle liabilities. By following these guidelines, individuals can ensure a smoother transition and avoid potential legal issues.