REG 34 DFM Form – If you’re a foreign visitor planning to buy a new American-made vehicle in California, the REG 34 DFM Form (also known as the Foreign Resident In-Transit Permit Application) is your official way to drive it legally for up to 30 days without paying California registration fees or sales tax.
This California DMV form lets eligible foreign residents operate a newly purchased vehicle temporarily while they arrange export. Below is everything you need to know—straight from the official California DMV sources—plus the direct REG 34 PDF download link.
What Is the REG 34 Foreign Resident In-Transit Permit?
The REG 34 DFM is a one-time, non-renewable 30-day transit permit issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It allows a foreign resident to drive a new American-made automobile or motorcycle in California without full registration or sales tax during that period.
Key benefits:
- No California vehicle registration fees
- No sales tax on the purchase (for the 30-day period)
- Legal temporary operation in California
The permit is not for used vehicles, commercial vehicles, or vehicles purchased after arriving in the U.S. It is specifically designed for pre-arranged purchases made through a California dealer before you enter the country.
Who Qualifies for the REG 34 Permit?
You must meet all of these requirements:
- Be a foreign resident (non-U.S. citizen or non-permanent resident)
- Have made pre-arrangements to purchase a new American-made vehicle from a California dealer before entering the United States
- Provide proof of foreign residency (valid passport or visa)
- Purchase only a new passenger vehicle or motorcycle (no commercial vehicles)
- Plan to remove the vehicle from the U.S. or deliver it to a carrier before the 30-day permit expires
The permit fee is $60 and is non-refundable even if you don’t ultimately buy or pick up the vehicle.
How to Apply for the Foreign Resident In-Transit Permit (Step-by-Step)?
- Pre-arrange the purchase – Contact a California dealer and complete the sale arrangements before you arrive in the U.S.
- Complete the REG 34 DFM Form – The dealer’s authorized agent fills out the application with your details.
- Submit required documents – The dealer submits the REG 34 along with:
- Application for Registration of New Vehicle (REG 397)
- Buyer’s temporary operating copy
- Proof of foreign residency (passport or visa)
- $60 permit fee
- Receive the permit – The dealer provides you with the Foreign Resident In-Transit Permit, Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin, and receipt.
You must carry the permit while operating the vehicle in California.
What Information Is Required on the REG 34 Form?
The official REG 34 PDF is a simple one-page form. Required fields include:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Vehicle type (Automobile or Motorcycle)
- Make of vehicle
- Date of first operation
- Foreign buyer’s full name, passport number or visa number, and issuing country
- California dealer name, dealer number, business address, and phone number
- Signature of authorized dealer agent (under penalty of perjury)
Important note: The form must be signed by the dealer’s authorized representative.
Download the Official REG 34 DFM Form PDF (2025 Updated Version)
Direct download link (official California DMV):
✅ Download REG 34 Foreign Resident In-Transit Permit Application PDF
This is the current version hosted directly on the DMV website. Always use the official link to ensure you have the latest form.
Critical Rules & Warnings
- The vehicle must leave the United States or be delivered to a carrier before the 30-day permit expires.
- Operating the vehicle beyond 30 days requires full California registration and payment of all fees and sales tax.
- The permit cannot be renewed.
- Full compliance with California traffic laws is still required while driving.
Where to Find More Information?
- Official DMV Handbook page: Foreign Resident In-Transit Permit (REG 34)
- California DMV Forms page (search for REG 34 DFM)
- Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual – Chapter 25: Permits and Decals
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use the REG 34 for a used vehicle?
A: No – only new American-made automobiles or motorcycles qualify.
Q: Is the $60 fee refundable?
A: No, the fee is non-refundable.
Q: Do I need to visit a DMV office?
A: Usually not. The authorized California dealer handles the application and issuance.
Q: What if I’m buying the car after arriving in the U.S.?
A: You do not qualify for the REG 34 permit.
Final Tip
Planning to buy a new vehicle in California as a foreign visitor? Download the REG 34 DFM Form today and work with your California dealer to pre-arrange the purchase. This simple step can save you significant time and money while ensuring full legal compliance.
Official source: California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) – always verify details on dmv.ca.gov before applying.
Need help with other California DMV forms? Check the complete DMV forms library for the latest versions. Safe travels and happy driving!