Identify who will handle the transaction
Ask for the purchasing entity’s details and establish who will submit the dismantling paperwork. A towing arrangement alone does not explain how ownership will be recorded.
If you intend to dismantle it yourself
DMV’s individual-junking procedure requires the owner to apply to record the vehicle as junk before dismantling. Follow that procedure before removing parts; do not assume a bill of sale completes every DMV requirement.
Keep evidence of the handover
Retain the accepted ownership documents, buyer details and receipt. Check the seller notification requirements and confirm how plates and any later-received documents will be handled for this transaction.
Official sources.
Sources reviewed September 10, 2026. Use the current instructions for your vehicle and transaction.
Continue with your California sale.
California Notice of Transfer and Release of LiabilityReport the sale separately from signing the title.Selling a California car with a missing titleCheck the ownership record and lender involvement before choosing replacement paperwork.California Smog Checks when selling a carCheck the vehicle and transaction before assuming an inspection is required or exempt.Selling a California vehicle on planned nonoperationA car that does not run is not automatically recorded as PNO.California salvage and nonrepairable vehicle documentsRead the certificate before choosing a sale, repair or disposal route.Selling an inherited vehicle in CaliforniaEstablish who can sign before arranging a sale or collection.California odometer disclosures and signaturesPrepare the correct mileage disclosure for the vehicle and transfer.Keeping California personalized or special-interest platesDecide what happens to your special plates before the car leaves.Selling a California car with a lender or lienResolve the lender’s interest alongside the vehicle offer.Correcting a California title before sellingResolve an incorrect entry before completing the transfer.Selling a car in California with an out-of-state titleThe vehicle’s location and its title jurisdiction are separate details.California vehicle retirement versus a private junk-car saleCompare the state program’s eligibility and process with a private offer.California vehicle pickup and sale recordsPrepare the car, ownership documents and follow-up before collection.A vehicle left on California property: removal and ownershipEstablish who owns the vehicle before choosing a sale or removal route.Selling a California vehicle through an authorized representativePrepare the owner’s authorization before someone else signs the sale documents.California car-selling forms and document checklistChoose documents for your situation instead of completing every form.