2. Gather the following documents.
- The motorcycle's current California registration card, if available.
- A California driver's license or identification card.
- Proof of ownership of the motorcycle, such as a bill of sale or salvage certificate.
- A certified copy of the legal owner’s death certificate and documentation confirming you are listed as the person to inherit the vehicle
- If you are not listed as the legal heir on the death certificate, you must also provide:
- A small estate affidavit if the legal owner died without a will or with a will and their total assets are valued at $166,250 or less.
- A probate court order awarding the motorcycle to you if the legal owner left a will, and/or their total assets are valued at $166,250 or more.
- A completed REG 262 form.
- Payment for the title transfer fee, which is currently $48
- A completed Vehicle Verification Request (REG 31) application
3. Submit your application and documents.
Take all of the required documents to a California DMV office. You can also mail your documents to the DMV, but it may take longer to process your application.
4. Obtain your motorcycle's title.
Once your application has been processed, you will receive a new title for your motorcycle in the mail. The motorcycle's title will be registered in your name and will allow you to legally operate the vehicle and register it with the DMV
Note: If the motorcycle is not currently registered in California, you will also need to apply for a new registration at the same time that you apply for the title.
