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CALIFORNIA · SELLER GUIDANCE · PRACTICAL GUIDE

Selling a California car with a missing title

For a missing California title, check whether REG 227 fits the ownership record and transaction. A lender-held title or a transfer subject to secure odometer disclosure may need another route.

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Identify the document problem

A lost certificate, an electronic lien title and an incorrect ownership record are different situations. Gather your registration and VIN, then explain the issue to DMV before arranging handover.

Check REG 227

DMV provides the Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title, REG 227. Read the sections that apply to your transaction and ask which signatures and supporting documents are required. The form expressly cannot be used to release a lien on an Electronic Lien Title vehicle.

What restriction applies to newer vehicles?

For a California vehicle two model years old or newer, DMV requires the California Certificate of Title to release the lien. A release on REG 227 does not satisfy that requirement. Arrange the replacement through the recorded lienholder when applicable.

Resolve the lender’s interest

If money is owed, request the lender’s payoff and release instructions. Do not assume a replacement-title application removes a lien. Confirm the accepted paperwork before completing the sale.

Official sources.

Sources reviewed September 26, 2026. Use the current instructions for your vehicle and transaction.

Continue with your California sale.

Selling a California car with a lender or lienBefore selling a California car with a lien, obtain the lender’s payoff and release instructions. The vehicle offer does not automatically settle the debt or remove the lien.Correcting a California title before sellingCalifornia title corrections depend on the error. A name or assignment correction and an odometer correction may require different evidence; do not erase or conceal an entry.California car-selling forms and document checklistChoose California vehicle forms by the task: replacement title, sale notification, representation or permanent disposal. An ordinary sale does not require every form in this directory.

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