California car buyer guide
Plain-English steps for buying a car in California — new or used, dealer or private seller. Rules change; confirm current fees with the DMV before you buy.
1. Know the fair price first
- Check our California price guide for what sellers are really asking for the same model and year.
- A car priced well under similar cars is a deal — but ask why (accident, title issue, high miles).
- Price drops often mean the seller is ready to negotiate.
2. Budget for tax and fees
- California sales tax is 7.25% statewide, plus local district taxes — most areas total 7.75% to 10.75%. It's based on where you register the car.
- Expect DMV registration, title and license fees, often a few hundred dollars depending on the car's value.
- Dealers may charge a document fee, capped by state law (currently $85 for most dealers).
- Private sales: you pay the sales tax at the DMV when you transfer the title.
3. Smog check
- Most used gas cars need a passing smog certificate to change ownership. The seller is responsible for providing it.
- Cars 4 model years old or newer, electric cars, and some others are exempt (a small transfer fee may apply).
4. Your rights at a dealer
- For used cars under $40,000, dealers must offer a 2-day contract cancellation option you can buy. It's not automatic — ask for it.
- Read the Buyers Guide sticker on the window: it says whether the car is sold 'as is' or with a warranty.
- Never sign a contract with blank spaces, and get every promise in writing.
5. Lemon law and recalls
- California's lemon law covers new cars and used cars still under the original warranty with repeated defects.
- Look up any car's open recalls with its VIN before you buy — our car pages show the VIN.
6. Before you hand over money
- Get a pre-purchase inspection from an independent mechanic.
- Run a vehicle history report and confirm the title is clean (not salvage).
- Compare financing: get a quote from your bank or credit union before visiting the dealer.