Sold a car in California? File the release of liability within five days
The seller's five-day Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability is separate from the buyer's ownership transfer, so collect the details and save the confirmation.
Key takeaways
California DMV says the seller must submit the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability within five calendar days.
Collect the buyer's name and address, plate, last five VIN digits, odometer reading, and sale date before handing over the vehicle.
The notice helps protect the seller but does not complete the buyer's ownership transfer.
Collect the NRL details before the buyer leaves
DMV's online Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability asks for the new owner's name and address, the license plate and last five VIN digits, the odometer reading, and the transfer date. Photograph or copy the signed title and bill of sale for your records.
Confirm spelling and numbers together. A text message thread or a first name alone is not a good substitute for the information DMV requests.
- Buyer's full name and address.
- License plate and last five VIN digits.
- Odometer reading, sale date, and sale price.
- Copies of the signed title and bill of sale.
Submit within five calendar days and save proof
California DMV says the seller is required to notify it within five calendar days of the sale or transfer. Filing online can provide a confirmation, which should be saved with the seller's copies.
If information is missing or the online filing cannot be completed, get help promptly. Waiting for the buyer to finish registration can leave the seller without proof that the seller's notice was submitted.
Remember that the NRL is not the transfer
DMV states that submitting the release does not transfer ownership. The buyer still must complete the title-transfer requirements and pay the applicable fees.
Before canceling insurance, speak with the insurer about the exact sale date, any replacement vehicle, and how to document the change. Keep the DMV confirmation, sale paperwork, and insurance confirmation together.
Common questions
How long does a California seller have to file the release of liability?
DMV says within five calendar days from the date the vehicle is sold or transferred and delivered to the new owner.
Does the release of liability transfer the title?
No. DMV says the notice does not qualify as a transfer of ownership; the buyer must complete the remaining transfer requirements.
