Do I Need to Notify the DMV if My Car Is Totaled in California?

Learn why and how to notify the California DMV when your car is totaled, including required forms and deadlines.

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Yes, if your car is totaled in California, you are required to notify the DMV. This process involves submitting a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL) within 5 days of the vehicle being declared a total loss, and a Reg 138 (Salvage Certificate) form. Notifying the DMV is crucial for removing your liability for anything that might happen with the vehicle after the total loss is declared and helps in the updating of ownership records. It’s part of the essential steps to properly handle a totaled car in California.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What forms do I need to submit to the DMV after my car is totaled in California? You need to submit a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL) within 5 days and a Reg 138 Salvage Certificate form to the California DMV.
  2. How soon must I notify the California DMV if my vehicle is declared a total loss? You must notify the DMV within 5 days after your vehicle is declared totaled to release liability and update ownership records.
  3. Why is it important to notify the DMV after a total loss in California? Notifying the DMV removes your liability for the vehicle and ensures that ownership and salvage records are properly updated.

Watch More

For more guidance on handling vehicle incidents in California, explore related videos on filing insurance claims, understanding salvage titles, and steps to register a rebuilt vehicle in California.

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