“I am now living in Sacramento, California and can not find the registration to Chevy Trax I bought in Scottsdale, Arizona. What do I need to do to get a copy of my registration so I can register the car in California?”

This is a common situation when moving between states! You’ll need to get a copy of your Arizona registration first, and potentially your Arizona title as well, before you can register the car in California.

Here’s a breakdown of what you need to do:

Step 1: Get a Copy of Your Arizona Registration (and potentially Title)

Since you’re in Sacramento, you’ll need to contact the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD).

• Online is likely your best bet: The Arizona MVD has an online portal called AZ MVD Now (azmvdnow.gov). If you have an account or can create one, you should be able to view your vehicle information and request a duplicate registration or even a paper title if your title is currently electronic. Many states now hold titles electronically, so you might not have received a paper one after purchasing the car.
  • Look for options like “Title Replacement” or “Vehicle Record Request” on their site. There’s usually a small fee.
• By Phone or Mail: If the online portal doesn’t work for you, contact the Arizona MVD directly by phone to inquire about requesting a duplicate registration (and a paper title if needed) from out of state. They can tell you the exact forms to fill out and where to mail them.
  • You’ll likely need your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and possibly your Arizona driver’s license number.

Important Note about the Title: California generally requires the actual out-of-state title to issue a California Certificate of Title (often called a “pink slip”). If your title is held by a lienholder (like a bank if you have a loan on the car), the California DMV will likely need to contact them directly to request the title. If Arizona issued an electronic title, you’ll need to request a paper title from Arizona MVD to send to California.

Step 2: Gather Documents and Prepare for California Registration

Once you have your Arizona registration (and potentially a paper title if applicable), you’ll need the following to register your Chev Trax in California:

1. Application for Title or Registration (REG 343): You can download this form from the California DMV website (dmv.ca.gov). All registered owners listed on the Arizona registration/title will need to sign this form.
2. Out-of-State Title or Latest Registration Card: You’ll use the duplicate Arizona registration you obtain. If you can get the actual Arizona title, that’s preferred for getting a California title issued. If you have a lienholder, California will issue a registration but not a California title until the loan is paid off.
3. Proof of Insurance: You must have California liability insurance before you can register your vehicle.
4. California Smog Certificate:
   • Your Chev Trax (unless it’s an electric vehicle or a very old diesel) will need a smog check performed at a California-licensed smog station.
   • Crucially: If your vehicle has less than 7,500 miles and was not manufactured to California emission standards, you might have difficulty registering it in California unless you can prove it was already registered in Arizona in your name before you moved. The Chev Trax is generally a mass-market vehicle, so it’s less likely to be an issue, but it’s something to be aware of for newer vehicles.
5. Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Verification:
   • This is a physical inspection of your vehicle to verify the VIN matches your documents, check the odometer reading, and confirm compliance with federal and California emission labels.
   • This can be done by a California DMV employee, law enforcement officer, or a California-licensed vehicle verifier (often found at independent registration services or some dealerships).
6. Payment for Fees: California registration fees can be substantial, including registration fees, vehicle license fees, and potentially sales tax (if you paid less tax in Arizona than you would have in California, you’ll owe the difference). The DMV has a fee calculator on their website.
7. Proof of Residency: Documents like a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your Sacramento address.

Step 3: Register Your Vehicle in California

1. Schedule an Appointment: It’s highly recommended to schedule an appointment at your local California DMV office in Sacramento to avoid long wait times. You can do this on the California DMV website.
2. Bring All Documents and the Vehicle: Bring everything listed above, including the vehicle itself for the VIN verification.
3. Process and Pay: The DMV representative will review your documents, perform the VIN verification (or direct you to where it’s done), collect fees, and issue you a temporary California registration. Your permanent registration card and new California license plates will be mailed to you.

Timeline:

• You are required to register your vehicle in California within 20 days of establishing residency to avoid penalties. Start the process of getting your Arizona documents as soon as possible.

It’s a multi-step process when moving states, but by tackling the Arizona part first, you’ll be well-prepared for the California DMV. Good luck!