REG 138 Form – When you sell, transfer, gift, or return a leased vehicle in California, filing the REG 138 Form (Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability) is one of the most important steps to protect yourself from future liability. This official California DMV document notifies the department that you are no longer responsible for the vehicle after the date of sale.
In this complete, up-to-date 2026 guide, you’ll learn exactly what the REG 138 form is, why it’s required by law, how to fill it out correctly, where to submit it, and how to download the latest PDF directly from the DMV. All information comes straight from official California DMV sources to ensure accuracy.
What Is the REG 138 Form (Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability)?
The REG 138 is the official California DMV form titled Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (also called NRL). It is used by the seller, previous owner, or lessee to inform the DMV that ownership or interest in a vehicle or vessel has been transferred.
Filing this form releases you from legal responsibility for:
- Parking violations
- Traffic tickets
- Civil or criminal actions related to the vehicle after the date of sale/transfer
Important note: The REG 138 does not transfer title or ownership. The buyer must still complete the title transfer using the endorsed Certificate of Title.
The current version is REG 138 (REV. 3/2024), and the official downloadable PDF is available directly from the DMV.
Why You Must File the REG 138 Form – Legal Protection Explained?
California Vehicle Code §5602 and §5900 require sellers to notify the DMV within five calendar days of the sale or transfer.
Without a properly filed REG 138:
- You may remain liable for any tickets, accidents, or violations that occur even after you no longer own the vehicle.
- The DMV will continue sending you registration renewal notices.
- You could face collection notices months or years later.
Submitting the form updates the DMV record so liability shifts to the new owner. Courts use the filing date as evidence that you complied with the law.
How to File REG 138: Online (Fastest) vs. Paper Form?
The DMV offers two official methods:
1. Online Filing (Recommended)
- Go to the official DMV NRL page: dmv.ca.gov/nrl
- Enter the required information (plate number, last 5 digits of VIN, new owner details, odometer reading, and date of sale)
- Receive an instant confirmation receipt
- Vehicle record updates within 1 business day
Online filing is faster, more accurate, and provides immediate proof.
2. Paper Form (REG 138 PDF)
- Download and print the official form
- Fill it out completely in black or blue ink using CAPITAL LETTERS
- Mail the top portion to the address printed on the form
- Keep the bottom portion for your records
Mailing address: Department of Motor Vehicles, P.O. Box 942859, Sacramento, CA 94259-0001 (first-class postage required).
Pro tip: Always keep a photocopy or screenshot of your completed form or online receipt. No confirmation is mailed for paper filings.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out the REG 138 Form Correctly?
The REG 138 PDF is a one-page card-style form. Follow these exact steps to avoid rejection:
- New Owner’s Information
- Last Name (or Company Name)
- First Name
- Address, Apt #, City, State, ZIP
(You may write “Unknown” if the buyer’s info is unavailable, but this risks disqualification.)
- Odometer Reading
- Enter the exact mileage (no tenths) at time of sale
- Indicate: Actual mileage / Exceeds mechanical limits / Not actual mileage
- Date of Sale, Transfer, or Lease Return
- Format: Month, Day, Year (example: 04, 15, 26)
- Seller’s or Lessee’s Information
- Your Last Name (or Company Name)
- First Name
- Your complete address
- Vehicle/Vessel Details
- License Plate or CF Number
- Make
- Year
- Model
- VIN or Hull ID (full number)
- Selling Price
- Enter whole dollars only (no cents)
- Enter 0 if it’s a gift
- Signature
- Sign as Seller or Lessee
Critical instructions printed on the form:
- Use CAPITAL LETTERS and black/blue ink
- Do not attach bill of sale or extra documents
- Submit one form per vehicle
- File within five days of the transaction
Download the Official REG 138 Form PDF (Free & Latest Version)
Direct download link (current REV. 3/2024 version):
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2024/10/REG-138-R3-2024-ASB-WWW.pdf
This is the exact official PDF published by the California DMV. Always download directly from this link or the DMV website to ensure you have the most current version.
Common Mistakes That Can Void Your REG 138 Protection
- Missing or illegible information (DMV will not process it)
- Incorrect VIN or license plate
- Forgetting to include the exact date of sale
- Writing in cursive or using pencil
- Submitting after the 5-day deadline
- Not keeping a copy for your records
- Assuming the buyer will handle it for you
What Happens After You Submit the REG 138?
Once DMV receives and processes your notice:
- Your name is flagged for liability release on the vehicle record
- You stop receiving renewal notices
- Liability for future violations transfers to the new owner
- You can request a certified copy later using form INF 70 if needed
Note: Your name is only fully removed from the title record when the buyer completes the transfer.
REG 138 Form FAQs
Can I file for a gifted vehicle?
Yes – enter $0 as the selling price.
Do I need to notarize the REG 138?
No. The form does not require notarization.
What if the buyer’s information is unknown?
You may write “Unknown,” but complete filing is still strongly recommended to protect yourself.
Is there a Spanish version?
Yes – REG 138 SP is available on the DMV website.
What if I receive a renewal notice after selling?
Resubmit the REG 138 immediately. Sometimes notices cross in the mail.
Protect Yourself Today – File Your REG 138 Now
Don’t risk thousands in potential liability or unwanted renewal bills. Whether you prefer the quick online method or the paper REG 138 PDF, filing the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability is your legal safeguard when selling or transferring a California-registered vehicle.
Official REG 138 PDF Download:
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2024/10/REG-138-R3-2024-ASB-WWW.pdf
For the fastest protection, start the online NRL here: dmv.ca.gov/nrl
All information is based on the latest official California DMV guidelines (updated as of 2026). Always verify on the DMV website for any last-minute changes before filing. Safe driving and smooth transfers!