REG 5059 Form – If you’re trying to title or register a vehicle, boat, or off-highway vehicle (OHV) in California but can’t provide the usual proof of ownership, the REG 5059 form is your official alternative to posting a surety bond. Also known as the Vehicle, Vessel or Off-Highway Vehicle Title Deposit Agreement and Assignment, this DMV form lets you make a cash or securities deposit with the state instead of buying a bond.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what the REG 5059 is, when you need it, how to fill it out step by step, where to submit it, and how to download the latest official PDF directly from the California DMV.
What Is the REG 5059 Form?
The REG 5059 (NEW 1/2010) is an official California DMV agreement that allows an applicant to deposit cash, bonds, certificates of deposit, or other approved securities in lieu of a surety bond when proof of ownership is missing.
It is required under:
- Vehicle Code §§ 4157, 9923, and 38050
- California Code of Regulations, Title 13, §§ 152.00 and 190.03
- Code of Civil Procedure § 995.710 (deposit in lieu of bond)
The deposit protects the state and any future owners if ownership issues or liens arise later. Once the DMV accepts the deposit and agreement, it can issue the title or registration.
When Do You Need the REG 5059 Form?
You must use REG 5059 (or the related surety bond REG 5057) in these common situations:
- Applying for a California title when the out-of-state title is lost, damaged, or incomplete.
- Registering a salvage or total-loss vehicle valued at $5,000 or more.
- Titling a vessel (boat) or off-highway vehicle without full ownership documents.
- Any case where the DMV requires a bond under Vehicle Code sections but you prefer to deposit funds directly with the state instead of paying for a commercial surety bond.
Important: The deposit must equal the current value of the vehicle, vessel, or OHV.
REG 5059 vs. REG 5057 Surety Bond – Which Should You Choose?
| Feature | REG 5059 (Deposit Agreement) | REG 5057 (Surety Bond) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | You deposit the full value (cash/securities) | Pay a one-time premium to an insurance company |
| Refundable | Yes (if no claims after required period) | Non-refundable premium |
| Processing | Sent to DMV Headquarters – Special Funds | Submitted with application |
| Best for | Applicants with cash or bank instruments | Those who want to keep cash liquid |
Many people choose REG 5059 because the deposit earns interest (if held in an interest-bearing account) and can be returned once the title is clear.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out the REG 5059 Form?
The form must be completed in duplicate and submitted with your deposit. Here’s exactly what to enter (based on the official 1/2010 version still in use):
- Vehicle, Vessel or Off-Highway Vehicle Information
- Make, Model, Year
- Current state of registration
- VIN or HIN
- Current plate/registration number
- Current value (this determines the penal sum)
- Depositor Information
- True full name of depositor(s)
- Mailing and physical address for service of process
- Applicant Information (if different from depositor)
- Full true name and address
- Deposit Information – Choose one approved method:
- Lawful U.S. money (cashier’s check or DMV receipt)
- Bearer bonds/notes of U.S. or California
- Certificates of deposit (FDIC-insured bank)
- Savings/investment/share accounts (FDIC or NCUA)
Attach proof (receipt, passbook, etc.).
- Penal Sum – Enter the exact current value of the vehicle/vessel/OHV.
- Signatures
- Depositor signs under penalty of perjury.
- If using a financial institution account, an officer of the bank/credit union must also sign the acknowledgment.
Pro Tip: If you run out of space, use the addenda page (Page 4) and reference it clearly on the main form.
Where and How to Submit the REG 5059 Form?
- Mail or deliver in duplicate along with your deposit and supporting documents to:
DMV Headquarters
Accounting Unit, Attn: Special Funds
(Exact address is provided when you contact the DMV or on your application packet.) - The DMV will hold the deposit and issue a receipt.
- Keep a copy of everything for your records.
Processing typically occurs at DMV headquarters rather than a local field office.
Download the Official REG 5059 PDF (Direct Link)
✅ Official California DMV REG 5059 Form (2025 upload – current version)
Download REG 5059 PDF Here
Always download directly from the DMV website to ensure you have the latest authorized form.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the deposit refundable?
Yes — if no claims are made against the title within the required period, the deposit (plus any interest) is returned to the depositor.
Can I use a personal check?
No. The deposit must be lawful money of the United States, bearer bonds, or qualifying bank/credit-union instruments.
Do I need this for every vehicle?
Yes — a separate REG 5059 is required for each vehicle, vessel, or OHV.
Where can I get help filling it out?
Contact your local DMV office or the headquarters Special Funds unit. The form itself contains clear instructions.
Final Thoughts
The REG 5059 Vehicle, Vessel or Off-Highway Vehicle Title Deposit Agreement is a fast, cost-effective way to secure a California title when traditional proof of ownership is unavailable. By understanding the form and following the DMV’s exact requirements, you can avoid delays and get your vehicle, boat, or OHV legally titled.
Ready to proceed?
Download the official REG 5059 PDF above, gather your deposit, and submit it with your title application. For the most current instructions, always refer to the California DMV website or the Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual.
Need help with related forms? Check out REG 5057 (Surety Bond) or REG 488C (Salvage/Non-Repairable) on the official DMV forms page.
Last updated: April 2026 – Information based on current California DMV publications and official form REG 5059.