REG 256F Form – The REG 256F form, officially titled Statement of Facts California Non-Certified Vehicle, is a critical California DMV document for registering certain out-of-state or imported vehicles that do not fully meet California’s strict emission standards. Whether you’re dealing with a non-resident vehicle purchase, a direct import, or a CNCV (California Non-Certified Vehicle), this form helps you claim legal exemptions and complete registration.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn exactly what the REG 256F is, when you need it, how to fill it out step by step, required supporting documents, and where to download the latest official REG 256F PDF directly from the DMV.
What is the REG 256F Form?
The REG 256F is a specialized version of the California DMV’s Statement of Facts series. Unlike the general REG 256 form used for tax exemptions, smog exemptions, or title-only transfers, REG 256F is exclusively for California Non-Certified Vehicles (CNCV) and certain direct-import vehicles.
A CNCV is a vehicle originally manufactured for sale outside California (often called a “49-state vehicle”) that meets federal but not full California emission standards. California law (Health & Safety Code §43151) generally prohibits registering these vehicles unless you qualify for a specific exemption listed on the REG 256F.
The current official version is REG 256F (REV. 8/2017), and the DMV continues to accept and provide this revision as of 2026.
Purpose of the REG 256F Statement of Facts for Non-Certified Vehicles
The primary purpose of the REG 256F is to allow vehicle owners to certify under penalty of perjury that they qualify for an exemption from California’s emission standards. Without a properly completed REG 256F and supporting evidence, you cannot register the vehicle in California — and you may be required to remove it from the state immediately.
Key uses include:
- Registering new or used direct-import vehicles
- Registering out-of-state vehicles with low mileage (< 7,500 miles)
- Claiming exemptions for inherited vehicles, replacement vehicles, or vehicles acquired while you were a resident or on military duty in another state
The form also includes a clear warning: “If you acquire a California Non-Certified Vehicle and do not qualify for one of the exemptions, you cannot register your vehicle and it must be taken out of California immediately.”
When Do You Need to Use the California DMV REG 256F Form?
You must submit the REG 256F when applying for registration if your vehicle:
- Is a CNCV or direct-import vehicle not equipped to meet California emission standards
- Has an odometer reading under 7,500 miles and only meets federal emissions
- Qualifies under one of the specific exemptions in Section 2 of the form
Common scenarios:
- Buying a vehicle from another state
- Importing a vehicle from outside the U.S.
- Inheriting or receiving a non-certified vehicle through divorce
- Replacing a damaged or stolen California-registered vehicle with an out-of-state one
Note: The general REG 256 form cannot be used in place of REG 256F for these emission-related exemptions.
How to Fill Out the REG 256F PDF Step by Step?
Filling out the REG 256F is straightforward but must be completed accurately. Here’s a clear breakdown based on the official form layout:
Section 1 – Vehicle Information
- License Plate Number (if applicable)
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Year/Make
Section 2 – California Non-Certified Vehicle (CNCV)
Check the appropriate box:
- Odometer reading less than 7,500 miles on the date purchased or acquired
- Meets federal emission standards only
- Exemption because:
- You inherited the vehicle or were awarded it in a divorce/dissolution (submit court documents)
- You purchased it out-of-state to replace a damaged, inoperative, or stolen California-registered vehicle (provide previous plate/VIN, repair estimate, or police report)
- You were a resident of, or on active military duty in, another state when you acquired the vehicle
Section 3 – Statement of Facts
Write a clear statement explaining the facts of your situation.
Section 4 – Certification
- Sign and date the form
- Print your name
- Provide your daytime phone number
- Certify under penalty of perjury that all information is true and correct
Pro Tip: Use black ink, print clearly, and attach all required supporting documents. Incomplete forms will be rejected.
Exemptions for Registering Non-Certified Vehicles in California
The REG 256F lists the only acceptable exemptions. You must select one and provide proof. Common exemptions include:
- Inherited or court-awarded vehicles
- Replacement vehicles for damaged, stolen, or inoperative California vehicles
- Vehicles acquired while you lived or served in the military in another state
- Vehicles with engine displacement under 50 cc (in limited cases)
For used direct-import vehicles older than two years (through 1975 models) that don’t meet federal or California standards, the same exemptions apply.
Required Documents and Supporting Evidence
Always submit the completed REG 256F together with:
- Application for Title or Registration (REG 343)
- Proof of ownership (title or bill of sale)
- Documented evidence supporting your chosen exemption (court papers, police report, previous registration, etc.)
- Smog certification (if required) or federal emissions documentation
- All other standard registration fees and documents
Download REG 256F Statement of Facts PDF (Official Link)
Official Download:
REG 256F Form – Statement of Facts California Non-Certified Vehicle PDF
This is the latest official version hosted directly on the California DMV website. Always download from dmv.ca.gov to ensure you have the most current form.
Tips for Submitting REG 256F to the DMV
- Submit in person at a DMV office or through an authorized agent
- Keep copies of everything
- Processing may require additional verification from the California Air Resources Board (CARB)
- Fees are standard registration fees plus any use tax or penalties
Frequently Asked Questions About REG 256F
Q: Can I use the general REG 256 instead of REG 256F?
A: No. REG 256F is the specific form required for non-certified vehicle emission exemptions.
Q: What happens if I don’t qualify for an exemption?
A: You cannot register the vehicle in California and must remove it from the state or purchase a One-Trip Permit.
Q: Is the form still current in 2026?
A: Yes. The REV. 8/2017 version remains the official form accepted by the DMV.
Q: Do I need a notary for REG 256F?
A: No, but you are signing under penalty of perjury.
For the latest rules, always refer to the official California DMV Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual, Chapter 12.
Need help with California vehicle registration? Visit the official DMV website or contact your local DMV office for personalized assistance. Download your REG 256F PDF today and ensure your non-certified vehicle registration goes smoothly.