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The DMV Reg 256 form is an essential document for vehicle and vessel ownership transfers in California. This form addresses various situations that may exempt a transfer from certain taxes or requirements. For instance, it includes sections for claiming use tax exemptions, such as family transfers, gifts, and inheritances. Additionally, it provides a statement for smog exemptions, allowing for transfers without a smog certification under specific conditions. The form also caters to those seeking a transfer only or title only, confirming that the vehicle has not been used on public highways. Furthermore, it includes provisions for individuals with disabilities, allowing for the issuance of a window decal for wheelchair lifts or carriers. Lastly, the form accommodates changes in vehicle body specifications and name corrections, ensuring all necessary information is accurately captured. Completing the DMV Reg 256 form correctly is crucial for a smooth transfer process, making it a vital resource for California residents navigating vehicle ownership changes.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Many individuals fail to fill out all required sections of the DMV Reg 256 form. Each section must be completed fully, including vehicle descriptions and specific statements for exemptions. Omitting details can lead to delays or rejections.

  2. Incorrect Exemption Claims: People often misidentify the type of exemption they qualify for. For example, claiming a family transfer when the transaction does not meet the specified criteria can invalidate the exemption.

  3. Signature Issues: Some applicants forget to sign Section H. This signature is crucial as it certifies the accuracy of the information provided. A missing signature can result in processing delays.

  4. Failure to Provide Market Value: The form requires applicants to state the current market value of the vehicle. Neglecting to fill in this information can lead to complications, especially when claiming exemptions or determining fees.

Preview - Dmv Reg 256 Form

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Department of Motor Vehicles

STATEMENT OF FACTS

Complete the appropriate section(s) in full (including vehicle description) and sign Section H.

LICENSE PLATE/CF NUMBER

VEHICLE/VESSEL ID NUMBER

YEAR/MAKE

 

 

 

A. STATEMENT FOR USE TAX EXEMPTION

 

This transfer is exempt from use tax because it is a:

 

Family transfer sold between a parent, child, grandparent, grandchild, spouse, domestic partner, or siblings (if both are minors related by blood or adoption).

Addition or deletion of family member (spouse, domestic partner, parent[s], son/daughter, grandparents, grandchildren). Gift (does not include vehicles traded between individuals, transfer of contracts or other valuable consideration).

Court Order

Inheritance

NOTE: The Use Tax Exemption cannot be claimed if the vehicle/vessel being transferred was purchased from an otherwise qualifying relative who is engaged in the business of selling the same type of vehicle/vessel.

The current market value is: $________________ .

B. STATEMENT FOR SMOG EXEMPTION

The vehicle does not require a smog certification for transfer of ownership because:

The last smog certification was obtained within the last 90 days.

It is powered by:

electricity

diesel

Other ___________________________.

It is located outside the State of California. (Exception: Nevada and Mexico)

It is being transferred from/between:

 

 

 

The parent, grandparent, child, grandchild, brother, sister, spouse, or domestic partner (as defined in

 

 

Family Code §297) of the transferee.*

 

 

A sole proprietorship to the proprietor as owner.*

 

Companies whose principal business is leasing vehicles. There is no change in lessee or operator.*

 

Lessor and lessee of vehicle, and no change in the lessee or operator of the vehicle.*

 

Lessor and person who has been lessee’s operator of the vehicle for at least one year.*

Individual(s) being added as registered owner(s).*

*Does not require smog certification unless Biennial Smog is required.

C. STATEMENT FOR TRANSFER ONLY OR TITLE ONLY

This vehicle has not been used or parked on a street or highway or off-highway. I am applying for a:

Transfer Only

Title Only

The vehicle is not currently registered. It has not been driven, moved, towed, or left standing on any California public highway to cause registration fees to become due. It was not transported over any California public highway or operated within California to cause off-highway fees to become due. Appropriate registration will be obtained before the vehicle is operated.

D. WINDOW DECAL FOR WHEELCHAIR LIFT OR WHEELCHAIR CARRIER

Enter your Disabled Person License Plate, or Disabled Veteran License Plate, or Permanent Disabled Person Parking Placard number below:

DISABLED PERSON PLATE

DISABLED VETERAN PLATE

PERMANENT DISABLED PERSON PLACARD

The vehicle to which my Window Decal will be affixed is:

LICENSE NUMBER

VEHICLE MAKE

VEHICLE ID NUMBER

Mail to:

NAME

ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP

 

 

 

 

 

 

REG 256 (REV. 8/2008) WWW

 

 

STATEMENT OF FACTS

Complete the appropriate section(s) in full (including vehicle description) and sign Section H.

LICENSE PLATE/CF NUMBER

VEHICLE/VESSEL ID NUMBER

YEAR/MAKE

 

 

 

E. STATEMENT FOR VEHICLE BODY CHANGE (OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATE REQUIRED)

The current market value of the vehicle or vessel is: $________________ .

 

Changes were made at a cost of $________________ on this date ________________ .

 

This is what I changed: Check all that apply:

 

Unladen Weight changed because __________________ (Public Weighmaster Certificate is required. Exception: Trailers)

Motive Power changed from ________________ to ________________ .

Body Type changed from ________________ to ________________ .

Number of Axles changed from ________________ to________________ .

F.

NAME STATEMENT (OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATE REQUIRED)

Please print

I, _______________________________ and _______________________________ are one and the same person.

My name is misspelled. Please correct it to: _________________________________________________________

I am changing my name from _____________________________ to ___________________________________

G. STATEMENT OF FACTS

I, the undersigned, state:

H. APPLICANT’S SIGNATURE

I certify (or declare) under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

PRINTED LAST NAME

FIRST NAME

MIDDLE NAME

DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER

( )

SIGNATURE

DATE

X

REG 256 (REV. 8/2008) WWW

Documents used along the form

The DMV Reg 256 form is commonly used for various vehicle-related transactions in California. Several other forms and documents are often required in conjunction with this form to ensure compliance with state regulations. Below is a list of these documents, each described briefly for clarity.

  • DMV Reg 343: This form is used to apply for a duplicate title. It is necessary when the original title has been lost, stolen, or damaged, ensuring that the vehicle's ownership is properly documented.
  • DMV Reg 227: This document is a notice of transfer and release of liability. It informs the DMV that the vehicle has been sold or transferred, thereby releasing the previous owner from any future liability associated with the vehicle.
  • DMV Reg 256A: This is a supplemental form that provides additional information regarding the vehicle's transfer, especially for unique situations that may not be covered in the primary Reg 256 form.
  • DMV Reg 31: This form is used to apply for a new registration. It is essential for individuals who have purchased a vehicle and need to register it in their name with the DMV.
  • DMV Reg 480: This document is used for a vehicle identification number (VIN) verification. It is often required for vehicles that are being registered for the first time or for those with an unclear history.
  • Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care: This document ensures that healthcare decisions can be made on a person's behalf by a trusted individual, similar to how the Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care functions, safeguarding one's medical preferences.
  • DMV Reg 343A: This is an application for a certificate of title for a vehicle that has been purchased from a private party. It is crucial for establishing legal ownership.
  • DMV Reg 15: This form is a request for a smog check exemption. It is applicable to certain vehicles that meet specific criteria, allowing them to bypass the standard smog certification process.
  • DMV Reg 256B: This form is used to report a change of address for a vehicle registration. It ensures that all records are current and that the vehicle's owner receives important notifications from the DMV.
  • DMV Reg 402: This document serves as a request for a vehicle record information. It allows individuals to obtain details about a vehicle’s registration history and ownership status.

These forms and documents play a vital role in the vehicle registration process and help maintain accurate records within the DMV system. It is important for individuals to ensure they have the necessary paperwork completed to facilitate smooth transactions.

Similar forms

The DMV Reg 256 form is similar to the DMV Reg 343 form, which is used for vehicle registration and title applications. Both documents require the vehicle's identification number and details about the owner. The Reg 343 form typically includes sections for transfer of ownership, much like the Reg 256, where the reason for the transfer must be specified. This form also addresses exemptions from certain fees, making it essential for individuals navigating vehicle ownership changes.

Another document that shares similarities is the DMV Reg 227 form, which is a statement of facts used in situations involving vehicle ownership disputes. Like the Reg 256, it requires detailed information about the vehicle and the parties involved. Both forms aim to clarify the circumstances surrounding vehicle transfers and ownership, ensuring that all necessary information is provided to the DMV for accurate processing.

The DMV Reg 262 form also parallels the Reg 256 in that it is used for declaring a vehicle's status for registration purposes. This form is often utilized when a vehicle is being registered for the first time or when there are changes to the vehicle’s status. Both forms require the owner to affirm the accuracy of the information provided, thus serving as a declaration of facts regarding vehicle ownership.

Similar to the Reg 256, the DMV Reg 401 form is used for reporting vehicle sales and transfers. This form collects essential details about the buyer and seller, as well as the vehicle itself. The Reg 401 is particularly focused on the sale aspect, while the Reg 256 can address various types of transfers, including gifts and family transactions, making both forms crucial in the vehicle transfer process.

The DMV Reg 510 form is another document that aligns with the Reg 256 in terms of vehicle registration. It is used for reporting a change in vehicle ownership due to a sale or transfer. Both forms require the submission of specific details about the vehicle and the parties involved, ensuring that the DMV has accurate records for ownership and registration purposes.

The DMV Reg 125 form also shares characteristics with the Reg 256. It is used for declaring a vehicle’s status when applying for a duplicate title or registration. Both forms require the owner to provide information about the vehicle and affirm the truthfulness of the statements made. This helps maintain accurate records with the DMV and can prevent issues related to ownership claims.

In addition, the DMV Reg 256 form is akin to the DMV Reg 262A form, which is used for vehicle title applications. Both forms require detailed information about the vehicle, including its identification number and ownership details. The Reg 262A focuses more on the title aspect, while the Reg 256 encompasses various transfer scenarios, including exemptions from fees and certifications.

In addition to the various documents involved in vehicle ownership, it's important to consider the specific needs when transferring ownership of a mobile home, which can be accomplished using the Mobile Home Bill of Sale. This form outlines the conditions of sale and protects both the seller and the buyer during the transaction, ensuring that all necessary details are clearly stated and legally binding.

The DMV Reg 227A form also resembles the Reg 256 in its purpose of documenting vehicle ownership changes. It is often used when there is a need to clarify ownership issues or disputes. Like the Reg 256, it requires detailed information about the vehicle and the parties involved, ensuring that the DMV has the necessary information to process ownership changes accurately.

Lastly, the DMV Reg 262B form is similar to the Reg 256 in that it is used for reporting changes related to vehicle registration. This form is often utilized when a vehicle is being registered for the first time or when there are updates to the owner’s information. Both forms require the submission of specific details and affirmations from the owner, ensuring that the DMV maintains accurate records of vehicle ownership.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DMV Reg 256 form, it is essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure the process goes smoothly. Here are nine things you should and shouldn't do:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting to fill out the form.
  • Don't leave any required sections blank; incomplete forms can cause delays.
  • Do provide accurate vehicle information, including the make, model, and year.
  • Don't use abbreviations or shorthand; clarity is crucial.
  • Do sign Section H to certify that all information is correct.
  • Don't forget to include the current market value of the vehicle when applicable.
  • Do double-check your contact information to ensure the DMV can reach you if needed.
  • Don't submit the form without reviewing it for errors or omissions.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.

Key takeaways

  • Ensure you complete all relevant sections of the DMV Reg 256 form. Include vehicle details and sign Section H to validate the document.

  • Identify the correct exemption category when claiming a use tax exemption. Options include family transfers, gifts, and court orders.

  • For smog exemptions, verify if the vehicle meets the criteria. This may include recent smog certification or specific ownership transfers.

  • When applying for a transfer or title only, confirm that the vehicle has not been used on public highways. This ensures compliance with registration requirements.

How to Use Dmv Reg 256

Filling out the DMV Reg 256 form requires careful attention to detail. After completing the form, you will need to submit it to the DMV as part of your vehicle transfer process. Follow these steps to ensure that you fill out the form correctly.

  1. Start by entering the License Plate/CF Number, Vehicle/Vessel ID Number, and Year/Make of the vehicle at the top of the form.
  2. Choose the appropriate section based on your needs. You can select from options like Use Tax Exemption, Smog Exemption, Transfer Only or Title Only, Window Decal for Wheelchair Lift or Carrier, Vehicle Body Change, or Name Statement.
  3. If you selected Use Tax Exemption, check the box that applies to your situation, such as family transfer or gift. Fill in the current market value of the vehicle.
  4. For Smog Exemption, check the applicable box and provide any necessary details about the vehicle's smog certification or its location.
  5. If applying for Transfer Only or Title Only, confirm that the vehicle has not been used on public highways and check the corresponding box.
  6. For the Window Decal, provide the Disabled Person License Plate or Placard number and the vehicle details.
  7. If you are making changes to the vehicle's body, complete the Vehicle Body Change section, including the cost of changes and current market value.
  8. In the Name Statement section, print your name and indicate if there are any corrections needed or if you are changing your name.
  9. Finally, sign Section H. Ensure that you print your name, provide your daytime phone number, and include the date of your signature.