Release of Liability

Department of Motor Vehicles

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Description

Reporting the sale or transfer of a vehicle or vessel to the DMV does not constitute a transfer of ownership. The record is not permanently transferred out of your name until the DMV receives a completed application for transfer of ownership and payment of appropriate fees from the new owner. The vehicle record for International Registration Program (IRP) vehicles with IRP license plate number configurations may be submitted, however, the vehicle record for that license number will not be updated. When this form is properly completed and the information is recorded by the DMV, liability for parking and/or traffic violations and civil litigation resulting from operation after the date of sale becomes the responsibility of the new buyer.

Phone: 800-777-0133

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to notify DMV when I sell or transfer my vehicle to another owner?
Yes. You are required by law to notify DMV within five calendar days from the date you sell or transfer title or interest in and deliver possession of a vehicle to another owner (Vehicle Code Section 5900).
How does the notice of transfer and release of liability protect me?
When properly completed, and the information is recorded by DMV, liability for parking and/or traffic violations and civil litigation, resulting from operation after the date of sale, becomes the responsibility of the subsequent purchaser (Vehicle Code Section 5602). Additionally, when the NRL information is received by DMV, and the vehicle record is marked, no further vehicle registration renewal notices will be mailed to you for the reported vehicle.
How will I prove that I filed a NRL via the Internet?
When the transaction has been transmitted to DMV you will receive a confirmation. Print a copy of the confirmation and keep it in your records.
Where can I find more FAQs regarding Release of Liability?
Visit the Full FAQ

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Keywords

Car, DMV, Notice of Transfer, Release of Liability, Transportation, Vehicle,