How to own a vehicle in
California
as a non-US resident
California
Presence requirements
The US states, not the national government, control vehicle ownership in the United States.
In order to own a vehicle in any US state, you must establish a presence in that state.
These are the presence requirements to own a vehicle in this state:
Address
California address required to own a vehicle in California.
Proof of Residency at Address
None required.
Identity
A valid, current government-issued photo ID.
Cost of owning a vehicle
When you register a vehicle - apply for ownership and permission to drive it on public roads - two costs are due:
- Sales tax
- Registration fees
Sales tax and registration fees are due in the state in which the vehicle is registered, not where the vehicle is purchased.
These are the costs to own a vehicle in this state.
Sales tax is due where a vehicle is owned, not where it is bought - so owning a vehicle in Montana can save you hundreds (or thousands) of dollars.
Sales tax (state + local average)
9.25% of the vehicle's value
Registration fees
$243
Inspection Requirements
In order to register a vehicle (or renew a registration in this state, the vehicle must meet the following inspection requirements:
Smog inspections are required when you register or renew registration for a vehicle in California. California DMV personnel must verify the vehicle’s VIN if not previously registered in California. Smog inspection must be current to register vehicle. Smog check required for all out-of-state vehicles.
Want an easier way?
Let visitor.us register your vehicle in Montana, which has:
• No US driver's license requirement
• No vehicle inspection requirement
• No sales tax (purchase your vehicle in any US state)
• No vehicle inspection requirement
• No sales tax (purchase your vehicle in any US state)
Let's Get You on the Road
We make US vehicle ownership easy so you can enjoy your visit.