Import a Vehicle From California

California is very specific about the process of purchasing a vehicle within the state. However, our communication with the California Board of Equalization has confirmed that if you are purchasing a motor vehicle from a private seller in California, with the intention of leaving the state without engaging in any side trips, you do not have to pay the state sales tax or the use tax.

To contact the immensely helpful folks at the BOE, use (916) 445-6662.

NOTES:

1. If you purchase a vehicle in California with the intention of exporting it out of the US, you will have to obtain a paper title (pink slip) from the seller.

2. If you have to pay off a lien in order to receive a Title certificate (required to export your vehicle out of the US), you should review the DMV’s Electronic Lien and Title Program (ELT): http://www.dmv.ca.gov/vr/vr_info.htm#BM2524

3. For a listing of California City and County Sales Taxes for vehicle purchases from dealership, please see this database: http://www.boe.ca.gov/cgi-bin/rates.cgi

4. If you purchase a vehicle from a dealership and have it transported out of state you will be exempt from the state tax.

5. Once you have the Title certificate, you must submit it along with the Bill of Sale, and a lien release if applicable to the US border office a minimum of 72 hours prior to exporting your vehicle. For more information on US vehicle export requirements review Border Crossing Information