ADM 399 Form – The ADM 399 Form (Application for Refund) is the official California DMV document used to request refunds for vehicle registration, driver license, ID card, and other fees paid in error, excessively, or when not required. If you overpaid DMV fees or qualify for a refund under California Vehicle Code §42231, this form ensures your request is processed correctly.
Download the latest ADM 399 PDF directly from the California DMV website below and follow this comprehensive guide for eligibility, step-by-step instructions, required documents, and mailing details. All information is based on the current official form (REV. 6/2024) and DMV guidelines.
What Is the ADM 399 Form?
The ADM 399 Form, officially titled Application for Refund, is a California DMV form that allows individuals and businesses to request refunds of fees and penalties collected by the Department of Motor Vehicles. It covers vehicle/vessel registration, personalized plates, driver licenses, identification cards, occupational licenses, and other miscellaneous fees.
Refunds are available when fees were paid in error, were excessive, or were not actually due, as outlined in California Vehicle Code and Revenue and Taxation Code. The form must be completed accurately and submitted with supporting documentation within three years of the original payment.
Who Needs to Use the ADM 399 Application for Refund?
You should use the ADM 399 DMV form if:
- You paid registration fees twice or in error.
- Your vehicle was sold, wrecked, stolen, or taken out of California after fees were paid.
- You qualify for a Nonresident Military (NRM) exemption.
- You paid driver license or ID card fees that were collected in error.
- A penalty was charged excessively or incorrectly.
Note: Not all situations qualify. The DMV will not issue refunds for registration fees paid before a vehicle sale, voluntary duplicate certificates, parking citations, or use tax. Driver license/ID refunds are generally limited to error-only cases.
Eligible Reasons for a California DMV Refund
Common qualifying reasons listed on the ADM 399 form include:
- Vehicle/vessel registered out of state.
- Vehicle left California or was last operated in the state on a specific date.
- Vehicle was sold, wrecked, or stolen.
- Fees were paid twice.
- Penalty charged in error or excess.
- Nonresident Military exemption (attach REG 5045).
- Other (with brief explanation).
Always attach proof such as registration cards, canceled checks, or police reports to support your claim.
How to Download the Official ADM 399 PDF?
The most current version is ADM-399-R6-2024-ASB-WWW.pdf (revised June 2024).
Direct Download Link:
Download ADM 399 Form PDF
This is the official, free PDF hosted on the California DMV website. Save it to your device, print it, and complete it by hand (digital signatures are not accepted). The form is also available on the DMV Forms page and Payments & Refunds section.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filling Out the ADM 399 Form
Follow these instructions directly from the form:
- Refund Type – Mark the appropriate box (Registration, Personalized Plate, Driver’s License, ID Card, etc.).
- Name or Company Name – Enter the name of the person or company entitled to the refund.
- Mailing Address – Include full street address (use C/O if needed).
- City, State, Zip Code.
- Date Fees Were Paid – Enter MM/DD/YYYY.
- Where Fees Were Paid – DMV office, business partner, or Auto Club location.
- Payment Method – Check Credit, Debit, Cash, or Check/E-Check.
- Refund Amount Requested – Include dollars and cents.
- Reason for Refund – Mark the correct box and provide dates/details.
- Vehicle Info (for registration refunds) – Last 3 characters of VIN/HIN, registered owner name (if different), license plate number.
- License/ID Info (if applicable) – DL/ID number and name.
- Signature and Date – Sign under penalty of perjury.
- Contact Information – Email and daytime phone number.
Complete only the sections that apply to your refund type. Certify the information is true and correct.
Required Supporting Documents for ADM 399
To avoid delays, attach:
- Photocopy of canceled check (front and back) or credit card receipt.
- DMV receipt.
- Vehicle registration card and unused stickers (if applicable).
- Police report, insurance document, or REG 102 (Planned Non-Operation).
- REG 138 (Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability).
- REG 5045 for Nonresident Military.
- REG 256 (Statement of Facts) if refund goes to someone other than the original payer.
- Proof of medical condition (for certain license refunds).
Incomplete submissions may result in requests for more information.
Where to Mail the Completed ADM 399 Form?
Mail to the correct address based on refund type:
- Registration, Personalized Plates, Vehicle Records, etc.: Department of Motor Vehicles, PO Box 942869, MS A235, Sacramento, CA 94269-0001.
- Driver’s License/ID Card, Driver Records: Department of Motor Vehicles, PO Box 942890, MS G204, Sacramento, CA 94290-0001.
- Occupational Licensing: Department of Motor Vehicles, Occupational Licensing Section, PO Box 932342, MS L224, Sacramento, CA 94232-3420.
You may also submit in person at a local DMV office. Refunds are issued to the original payment method.
ADM 399 Processing Time and What Happens Next
The DMV will notify you of the refund status by mail, email, or phone. Processing typically takes several weeks. Keep a copy of your completed form and all attachments for your records. There is no filing fee for the ADM 399 application.
Frequently Asked Questions About ADM 399 DMV Form
Can I submit ADM 399 online?
Some simple vehicle license fee reissues may be requested online, but most refunds still require mailing the completed ADM 399 PDF with documents.
What is the deadline?
Requests must be received within three years of the payment date.
Will I get my full refund?
Refunds are issued minus any applicable deductions (e.g., Planned Non-Operation fee). Partial refunds are possible.
Where can I find more details?
Visit the official DMV Payments & Refunds page or call 1-800-777-0133.
Tips for a Successful ADM 399 Refund Application
- Use the latest 2024 version of the form.
- Double-check all dates, VINs, and amounts.
- Include every required supporting document.
- Keep copies of everything you send.
- Write clearly and use black ink.
For the fastest service, mail your ADM 399 Form with all attachments to the correct Sacramento PO Box listed above.
Official Source: California Department of Motor Vehicles (dmv.ca.gov). Always download the form directly from the DMV website to ensure you have the most current version.
Need the ADM 399 Form right now? Click the link at the top to download the official PDF and start your California DMV refund request today.