8 Tips for Transferring Cars in a California Probate

Transferring Cars in a California Probate

Avoiding probate court oversight may be a way to save time and money when administering an estate in California. Transfer of certain property to heirs or beneficiaries can happen outside of probate in certain circumstances. This includes motor vehicles for estates that meet certain criteria. Here are eight helpful facts on transferring cars in a California Probate without involving the probate court.

8 Helpful Facts on Transferring Car Titles in a California Probate:

1. First, the heir to the vehicle must sign the deceased registered owner’s name and countersign on the first line of the California Certificate of Title in order to be accepted.
2. A power of attorney cannot be used to fill out an Affidavit for Transfer Without Probate-California Titled Vehicles or Vessels Only form.
3. The DMV needs only the Affidavit from the most recently deceased individual if they owned the vehicle jointly.
4. The DMV requires original or certified copies of the death certificates for all deceased owners.
5. When there is a living co-owner of the vehicle, a releasing signature must be provided to transfer the title.
6. If re-registering the vehicle in the name of the heir, only one transfer fee is due.
7.  A second transfer fee is due if re-registering the vehicle under the name of someone other than the heir.
8. Lastly, any past due registration fees and penalties may also be due at the time of transfer.

If you are ready to start your case, then please give us a call or fill out our Get Help Now form.  If you want a comprehensive overview of California Probate, then click here. Should you have additional questions about trust litigation, then you will find plenty of useful information in our Learning Center.