REG 5 Form – If a loved one in California has passed away and left behind a vehicle or vessel, transferring the title doesn’t always require a lengthy probate court process. The California DMV REG 5 form (officially titled Affidavit for Transfer Without Probate – California Titled Vehicle or Vessels Only) provides a simplified, legal way for eligible heirs to transfer ownership directly.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the REG 5 form, including eligibility, step-by-step instructions, required documents, and the official 2025 PDF download link (REV. 12/2024). Whether you’re searching for “REG 5 form California,” “affidavit for transfer without probate PDF,” or “how to transfer a deceased person’s car title in California,” this article covers the most current official information from the California DMV.
What Is the REG 5 Form?
The REG 5 form is a one-page affidavit issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles. It allows heirs, beneficiaries, trustees, or guardians to transfer ownership of a California-titled vehicle or vessel from a deceased owner without probate under specific conditions.
It is authorized by:
- California Vehicle Code (CVC) §§5910 and 9916
- California Probate Code (CPROB) §§6401, 6402, 13050, 13051, 13100, and 13109–13113
Important: This form applies only to California-titled vehicles or vessels. It cannot be used for out-of-state titles.
Who Can Use the REG 5 Form? Eligibility Requirements?
You may use the REG 5 form if all of the following are true:
- At least 40 days have passed since the decedent’s death.
- The decedent left no other property that would require probate (or no probate proceeding is pending or has been conducted in California).
- There are no unpaid unsecured creditors, or all claims have been paid or discharged.
- The decedent’s gross fair market value of real and personal property in California (excluding certain property under Probate Code §13050 and the vehicle/vessel itself) does not exceed:
- $166,250 if the decedent died before April 1, 2022
- $184,500 if the decedent died on or after April 1, 2022
- You are legally entitled to the vehicle/vessel as:
- The sole heir (or all heirs) under intestate succession (Probate Code §§6401–6402), or
- A beneficiary named in the decedent’s will, or
- A trustee acting on behalf of a trust established by the decedent, or
- A conservator/guardian of the entitled heir(s).
Value limits apply and are clearly stated on the current REG 5 form. The vehicle or vessel itself is not counted toward the estate value limit.
Required Documents for Transfer
To complete the transfer at a DMV office or AAA (if eligible), you will need:
- Completed REG 5 form (signed under penalty of perjury).
- Certified copy of the decedent’s death certificate.
- California Certificate of Title:
- The heir signs the deceased owner’s name on the title (Line 1) and countersigns their own name immediately below.
- If the title is lost, file a REG 227 (Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title).
- Transfer fee and any applicable use tax (if not exempt).
- Smog certification (if required for the vehicle).
All heirs or entitled parties must sign the REG 5 if multiple people qualify.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out and Submit the REG 5 Form?
The current REG 5 (REV. 12/2024) is straightforward with three main sections:
- Section 1 – Transfer Entitlement Information
- Enter: VIN/Hull ID, license plate or CF number, year, make, builder (if vessel).
- Provide decedent’s full name, exact date of death, and place of death (city, state).
- Check the applicable estate value limit based on the date of death.
- Indicate your legal entitlement (heir, beneficiary, trustee, etc.).
- Section 2 – Important Information
- Read the legal notice regarding liability under Probate Code §§13109–13113.
- Section 3 – Signature and Certification
- Print full name, provide telephone number or email.
- Sign and date (under penalty of perjury). Up to three signers allowed.
Pro Tip: Print or type clearly. Use black ink. Do not use Power of Attorney for this form.
Submission:
- Take everything to a DMV office or authorized AAA office.
- The DMV will issue a new title in the heir’s name (processing usually takes a few weeks).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting before 40 days have passed.
- Using the form for non-California titled vehicles.
- Forgetting to countersign the title after signing the decedent’s name.
- Under- or over-stating the estate value.
- Failing to provide a certified death certificate (a photocopy is usually not accepted).
- Not checking for liens or secured creditors.
Download the Official REG 5 Form PDF (Latest Version)
Direct Download Link (Official DMV):
REG 5 – Affidavit for Transfer Without Probate (REV. 12/2024) PDF
Always download directly from the California DMV website to ensure you have the most current revision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use REG 5 if the vehicle is the only asset?
Yes – this is the most common scenario.
Q: What if the estate exceeds the value limit?
You will need formal probate or other court documents (Letters Testamentary/Administration).
Q: Is the REG 5 form free?
Yes – the form itself is free to download and use.
Q: Do I need a lawyer?
Not usually, but consult an estate attorney if the estate is complex, has debts, or involves real property.
Q: Can spouses or domestic partners use this form?
Yes, if they qualify as the surviving heir or beneficiary.
Final Tips for a Smooth Transfer
- Gather all documents before visiting the DMV to avoid multiple trips.
- Check current fees and requirements on the official DMV website.
- Consider using an AAA office if you are a member – many offer faster service for title transfers.
The REG 5 form is a powerful tool that saves California families time, money, and stress when transferring a loved one’s vehicle or vessel without probate. Always rely on the official DMV form and instructions for the latest rules.
Ready to get started?
Download the REG 5 PDF here: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2025/02/REG-5-R12-2024-ASB-WWW.pdf
For more California DMV title transfer resources, visit the official page: Title Transfers and Changes.
This article is for informational purposes only and is based on current California DMV publications as of 2026. Laws can change; verify all details with the DMV for your specific situation.