List your car, connect with buyers, and close the deal securely on your terms.
It's easy to sell your car yourself in California with KarKiosk. Simply enter your VIN/License Plate and you're good to go. You can add more details by uploading great photos, ensuring your location is in California. And it takes only a few minutes to register!
KarKiosk offers top features such as multi-platform listing of your car, free vehicle history reports, "Feature Your Car", "Price Your Car Right", and much more to get your car in front of more buyers in California.
Connect with the right California buyer and securely manage your transaction through KarKiosk. Communicate across California with ease with the KarKiosk Message Center. You can even keep your private information private!
List your car, reach serious buyers, and sell with confidence.
Start listing your car for sale privately on KarKiosk by entering your vehicles VIN or License Plate number
To make your listing as attractive as possible, upload high quality and clear photos. Don't forget to include a description of the condition of the vehicle, how you have used it, etc.
You want to have your vehicle title and other required documents. Each state has different documentation when selling your used vehicle, so be sure to look into that ahead of time!
You will be able to track incoming offers all in one place, and will be able to accept, rebut or counter offers from inside the KarKiosk platform. Plus, when you find a buyer or an offer that you like, you can schedule a test drive from within KarKiosk
The buyer, generally, will want to test drive your car. Eliminate the long tedious text reply back and forth - utilize scheduling to quickly figure out a good time and location for the test drive.
When you have sold your car, make sure to get the correct paperwork in order, you will need to transfer your vehicle title and any other documents based upon state requirements. Don't forget to cancel your insurance.
Skip the Dealership and Maximize Your Return in California's Private Car Market.
Read the California Seller Guide
Choose your city to get started and connect with local buyers in your area.
From maximum visibility and powerful communication tools to smart promotions and top-notch support, KarKiosk gives you everything you need to sell your car faster and smarter.
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Yes. Under California law, the seller is responsible for providing the buyer with a valid smog certification at the time of the sale. The certificate is valid for 90 days. If the car fails smog, you (the seller) are legally required to fix it before selling it to a private party. Selling a car "as is" does not exempt you from this requirement unless the car is filed as Non-Operational (PNO).
Yes, the "pink slip" (Certificate of Title) is the primary proof of ownership. If you have lost it, you must complete an Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227). You will need to pay a duplicate title fee. Handing over a clear title is essential for a smooth transaction.
To transfer ownership, you must sign on Line 1 of the title. If there is a lienholder listed, they must sign Line 2 to release interest. You must also record the odometer reading if the vehicle is less than 20 years old. Do not use white-out or erase errors, as this voids the title. If a mistake happens, you will need to complete a Statement of Facts (REG 256) explaining the error.
As a private seller, you must provide:
The signed Certificate of Title.
A valid smog certificate (passed within the last 90 days), unless the vehicle is exempt.
Any service records (optional but helpful).
A Bill of Sale (REG 135) is highly recommended for your records.
No. Private sellers in California do not collect sales tax. The buyer is responsible for paying the "use tax" directly to the DMV when they register the vehicle in their name. The tax amount is based on the purchase price listed on the title or Bill of Sale.
This is the most critical step. You must file a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL) with the DMV within 5 days of the sale. This document notifies the state that you are no longer responsible for parking tickets, toll violations, or civil litigation resulting from the vehicle's operation. You can file this online instantly at the DMV website.
While the title is the main transfer document, completing a Bill of Sale (REG 135) is smart. It proves the date and price of the transaction. Keep a signed copy for your records; it serves as your evidence if the buyer fails to transfer the title immediately.
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