REG 166 Form – The REG 166 Form, also known as the Lien Satisfied Title Holder Release, is a critical California DMV document that allows a lienholder (legal owner) to officially release their interest in a vehicle or vessel once a lien has been fully paid off. Whether you’re finalizing a car loan payoff, transferring ownership, or applying for a duplicate title, this form helps clear the lien from your California vehicle title quickly and legally.
Download the official REG 166 PDF directly from the California DMV here:
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2025/03/REG-166-R12-2016-ASB-WWW.pdf
This free, up-to-date form (REV. 12/2016) is the most trusted resource for handling lien releases in California. Below, we break down everything you need to know about the REG 166 form, including how to use it, who needs it, step-by-step instructions, and important restrictions.
What Is the REG 166 Form?
The REG 166 Form is the official California DMV document titled Lien Satisfied / Legal Owner / Title Holder Release. It serves as a legal certification that a lien on a vehicle or vessel has been fully satisfied and releases the lienholder’s ownership interest.
Instead of requiring the lienholder to sign the actual Certificate of Title, the REG 166 allows them to provide a separate notarized release. This form is commonly used in title transfers, duplicate title applications (REG 227), and other ownership changes. It is accepted by the DMV in place of a lienholder signature on the title in most situations.
Purpose of the Lien Satisfied Title Holder Release (REG 166)
The primary purpose of the REG 166 Lien Satisfied Title Holder Release is to notify the California DMV that the lien has been paid in full and that the lienholder no longer has any claim on the vehicle or vessel.
This release clears the lien from DMV records, allowing the registered owner to:
- Receive a clear title
- Transfer ownership
- Apply for a duplicate title
- Complete other registration transactions
It is especially useful when the lienholder prefers not to release the lien directly on the physical title or when the title is not immediately available.
When Do You Need to Use the REG 166 Form?
You will typically need the REG 166 form in these common situations:
- After paying off a vehicle loan or lease (car loan payoff lien release)
- During a private vehicle sale or transfer where a lienholder is involved
- When applying for a duplicate California title (REG 227) and the lien must be released
- For vessel (boat) ownership changes
- In cases where the lienholder cannot or will not sign the original title
The form must be submitted along with other required documents to the DMV to update your title records.
Important Requirements and Restrictions for REG 166
Before using the REG 166, be aware of these official DMV rules:
- Notarization Required: The form must be notarized unless it is submitted by an insurance company to obtain a Salvage Certificate (per California Vehicle Code §5752).
- Not for Paperless Titles: This form cannot be used for vehicles with electronic (paperless) titles. Electronic liens must be released through the DMV’s Electronic Lien and Title (ELT) program.
- Not for Newer Vehicles: The REG 166 cannot be used for vehicles that are two model years old or newer. For these, the lienholder must release interest directly on the Certificate of Title.
- Accuracy: All information must be printed clearly. The notary only verifies the signer’s identity, not the accuracy of the statements.
Always verify your vehicle’s title status with the DMV before proceeding.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill Out the REG 166 Form?
Filling out the REG 166 form is straightforward. Follow these steps using the official PDF:
- Section 1 – Vehicle/Vessel Information
Enter the license plate/CF number, make, year, model, and Vehicle/Vessel Identification Number (VIN or hull ID). - Section 2 – Registered Owner Information
Provide the last name, first name, and middle name of the registered owner exactly as they appear on the title or contract. - Section 3 – Lienholder/Titleholder/Legal Owner Release
Fill in the lienholder’s full name, business or residence address (including city, state, ZIP), and mailing address if different.
The lienholder (or authorized agent) must sign, date the form, provide a daytime phone number, print their name, and list their title if signing for a company.
This section includes the legal certification that the lien has been fully satisfied and not assigned to another party. - Section 4 – Notary Use Only
A California notary public must complete this section, including county, date, and official seal.
Print clearly and ensure the lienholder signs in the presence of a notary (unless exempted).
How to Download the Official REG 166 PDF?
The California DMV provides the REG 166 form as a free, fillable PDF.
Direct Download Link:
REG 166 Lien Satisfied Title Holder Release PDF
Always download the latest version directly from the official DMV Forms page to ensure you have the current document. Avoid third-party sites that may offer outdated or altered versions.
How to Submit the REG 166 Form to California DMV?
Submit the completed and notarized REG 166 form along with:
- The Application for Duplicate or Transfer of Title (REG 227) if applicable
- The original or duplicate Certificate of Title (when required)
- Any other supporting documents for your transaction
You can mail or take the documents to a DMV office, or submit through an authorized Auto Club or business partner. Write “L/S att” or “LS” on the title (line 2) when using the REG 166 in place of a lienholder signature.
Frequently Asked Questions About the REG 166 Form
Is the REG 166 form free?
Yes. It is available as a free official download from the California DMV website.
Can I use REG 166 for an electronic title?
No. Paperless (electronic) titles require release through the ELT program only.
Do I need a notary for every REG 166?
Yes, except when an insurance company submits it for a salvage certificate.
What if my vehicle is brand new (less than 3 years old)?
You must use the physical Certificate of Title for the lien release—the REG 166 is not accepted.
Where can I find more information?
Visit the official DMV Title Transfers and Changes page for complete guidelines.
Get Your Clear Title Faster with the REG 166 Form
The REG 166 Lien Satisfied Title Holder Release is the official, efficient way to clear a paid-off lien from your California vehicle or vessel title. By downloading the correct PDF directly from the DMV and following the instructions carefully, you can complete your title transfer or duplicate title request without delays.
Always use the official source:
Download REG 166 PDF Now
For the latest updates or additional forms, check the California DMV website directly. Clearing your lien properly ensures smooth ownership transfer and protects your legal rights as a vehicle owner.