Registering a car in California can be a bit costly, but the fees vary depending on the type of vehicle and the city or county in which you reside. Here's a breakdown of the costs associated with registering a car in California:
- Vehicle License Fee: This fee is based on the value of your vehicle and is paid annually. The fee ranges from 0.65% to 1.15% of the vehicle's value.
- Registration Fee: The registration fee in California is a flat rate based on the vehicle's model year. For example, the fee for vehicles less than two years old is $46, and for vehicles older than two years, the fee is $30.
- Certificate of Title: There is a $20 fee for the certificate of title.
- Use Tax: If you purchased your vehicle from a private party or out of state, you may be required to pay a use tax based on the vehicle's purchase price.
In addition to the above fees, you may also be required to pay local and county fees, which can vary. It's important to note that if you fail to register your vehicle within 20 days of establishing residency in California, you may be subject to additional fees and penalties.
To get an accurate estimate of how much it will cost to register your specific vehicle, you can use the California DMV's online fee calculator. Simply input your vehicle information and your city or county, and the calculator will provide you with an estimate of the registration fees.