ATV Title Transfer in California
California requires a Certificate of Title for ATVs processed through the California DMV (OHV Registration). The title transfer process is similar to a standard vehicle, but the agency, forms, and fees may differ.
Registration in California
California has two registration systems for ATVs: (1) CA DMV OHV registration (green sticker/red sticker) for off-road use only, and (2) standard vehicle registration for street-legal ATVs/UTVs.
Required Documents in California
California ATVs use standard DMV vehicle titles. The OHV registration sticker is separate from the title — you receive both a title and a sticker program registration.
California allows certain UTVs (Side-by-Sides) to be registered for street use if they meet specific safety requirements. ATVs (single-rider, straddle-seat) are not street-legal in California.
California's OHV sticker program distinguishes between red stickers (ATVs that can only operate during certain months due to emissions) and green stickers (meets emissions standards, year-round use). A pre-2003 ATV may receive a red sticker — check before purchase if year-round use is important.
ATV Title Transfer FAQ — California
Yes — California requires a Certificate of Title for All ATVs/UTVs operated on California OHV areas or private land. California Department of Motor Vehicles issues titles for all off-highway vehicles (OHVs). OHV registration is required for use on state-designated OHV areas.
In California, ATV title transfers go through the California DMV (OHV Registration). Required documents: REG 343 (Application for Title or Registration), Signed previous OHV title or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO). Processing takes 10–30 Business Days. California ATVs use standard DMV vehicle titles. The OHV registration sticker is separate from the title — you receive both a title and a sticker program registration.
Some ATVs/UTVs can be registered for street use in California. California allows certain UTVs (Side-by-Sides) to be registered for street use if they meet specific safety requirements. ATVs (single-rider, straddle-seat) are not street-legal in California.
$21. Standard CA title fee. OHV registration fee is additional: $52/year for new OHVs.
California DMV (OHV Registration)
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-registration/watercraft-off-highway-vehicle-registration/