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The DMV Reg 256 form serves as a crucial document for various vehicle-related transactions in California. This form allows individuals to declare specific facts related to the transfer of ownership, exemptions from use tax, and smog certification requirements. It includes sections for family transfers, gifts, and court orders, providing clarity on when a use tax exemption may apply. Additionally, it addresses smog exemption criteria, which may vary based on vehicle type or ownership status. For those seeking to transfer a vehicle without registration or to obtain a title only, the form outlines necessary declarations. Moreover, it facilitates requests for window decals for wheelchair lifts or carriers, ensuring accessibility for disabled individuals. Changes to vehicle specifications, such as body type or motive power, can also be documented. Lastly, the form includes a section for name corrections, ensuring accurate records. Completing the DMV Reg 256 form accurately is essential for compliance and a smooth transaction process.

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Department of Motor Vehicles

STATEMENT OF FACTS

Complete the appropriate section(s) in full (including vehicle description) and sign Section H.

LICENSE PLATE/CF NUMBER

VEHICLE/VESSEL ID NUMBER

YEAR/MAKE

 

 

 

A. STATEMENT FOR USE TAX EXEMPTION

 

This transfer is exempt from use tax because it is a:

 

Family transfer sold between a parent, child, grandparent, grandchild, spouse, domestic partner, or siblings (if both are minors related by blood or adoption).

Addition or deletion of family member (spouse, domestic partner, parent[s], son/daughter, grandparents, grandchildren). Gift (does not include vehicles traded between individuals, transfer of contracts or other valuable consideration).

Court Order

Inheritance

NOTE: The Use Tax Exemption cannot be claimed if the vehicle/vessel being transferred was purchased from an otherwise qualifying relative who is engaged in the business of selling the same type of vehicle/vessel.

The current market value is: $________________ .

B. STATEMENT FOR SMOG EXEMPTION

The vehicle does not require a smog certification for transfer of ownership because:

The last smog certification was obtained within the last 90 days.

It is powered by:

electricity

diesel

Other ___________________________.

It is located outside the State of California. (Exception: Nevada and Mexico)

It is being transferred from/between:

 

 

 

The parent, grandparent, child, grandchild, brother, sister, spouse, or domestic partner (as defined in

 

 

Family Code §297) of the transferee.*

 

 

A sole proprietorship to the proprietor as owner.*

 

Companies whose principal business is leasing vehicles. There is no change in lessee or operator.*

 

Lessor and lessee of vehicle, and no change in the lessee or operator of the vehicle.*

 

Lessor and person who has been lessee’s operator of the vehicle for at least one year.*

Individual(s) being added as registered owner(s).*

*Does not require smog certification unless Biennial Smog is required.

C. STATEMENT FOR TRANSFER ONLY OR TITLE ONLY

This vehicle has not been used or parked on a street or highway or off-highway. I am applying for a:

Transfer Only

Title Only

The vehicle is not currently registered. It has not been driven, moved, towed, or left standing on any California public highway to cause registration fees to become due. It was not transported over any California public highway or operated within California to cause off-highway fees to become due. Appropriate registration will be obtained before the vehicle is operated.

D. WINDOW DECAL FOR WHEELCHAIR LIFT OR WHEELCHAIR CARRIER

Enter your Disabled Person License Plate, or Disabled Veteran License Plate, or Permanent Disabled Person Parking Placard number below:

DISABLED PERSON PLATE

DISABLED VETERAN PLATE

PERMANENT DISABLED PERSON PLACARD

The vehicle to which my Window Decal will be affixed is:

LICENSE NUMBER

VEHICLE MAKE

VEHICLE ID NUMBER

Mail to:

NAME

ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP

 

 

 

 

 

 

REG 256 (REV. 8/2008) WWW

 

 

STATEMENT OF FACTS

Complete the appropriate section(s) in full (including vehicle description) and sign Section H.

LICENSE PLATE/CF NUMBER

VEHICLE/VESSEL ID NUMBER

YEAR/MAKE

 

 

 

E. STATEMENT FOR VEHICLE BODY CHANGE (OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATE REQUIRED)

The current market value of the vehicle or vessel is: $________________ .

 

Changes were made at a cost of $________________ on this date ________________ .

 

This is what I changed: Check all that apply:

 

□ □ □ □

Unladen Weight changed because __________________ (Public Weighmaster Certificate is required. Exception: Trailers)

Motive Power changed from ________________ to ________________ .

Body Type changed from ________________ to ________________ .

Number of Axles changed from ________________ to________________ .

F.

NAME STATEMENT (OWNERSHIP CERTIFICATE REQUIRED)

Please print

I, _______________________________ and _______________________________ are one and the same person.

My name is misspelled. Please correct it to: _________________________________________________________

I am changing my name from _____________________________ to ___________________________________

G. STATEMENT OF FACTS

I, the undersigned, state:

H. APPLICANT’S SIGNATURE

I certify (or declare) under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

PRINTED LAST NAME

FIRST NAME

MIDDLE NAME

DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER

( )

SIGNATURE

DATE

X

REG 256 (REV. 8/2008) WWW

Form Specifications

Fact Name Details
Purpose The DMV Reg 256 form is used to provide a statement of facts for vehicle transfers in California.
Use Tax Exemption It allows certain transfers to be exempt from use tax, such as family transfers or gifts.
Smog Certification The form can be used to claim smog exemption under specific conditions, like recent certification or vehicle type.
Transfer Types It covers various transfer types, including transfer only or title only, for vehicles not currently registered.
Disabled Parking Decal There is a section for applying a window decal for wheelchair lifts or carriers for disabled persons.
Vehicle Body Changes Changes to the vehicle body must be reported, including costs and types of changes made.
Name Changes The form allows individuals to correct or change their names as part of the vehicle ownership records.
Signature Requirement Applicants must sign the form to certify the truthfulness of the provided information.
Governing Law This form is governed by California Vehicle Code, specifically sections related to vehicle registration and ownership.
Version The current version of the form is REG 256, revised in August 2008.

Dmv Reg 256: Usage Guidelines

Completing the DMV Reg 256 form is a straightforward process that requires careful attention to detail. After filling out the form, you will submit it to the California Department of Motor Vehicles for processing. Ensure that all information is accurate to avoid any delays.

  1. Begin by entering the License Plate/CF Number and Vehicle/Vessel ID Number at the top of the form.
  2. Fill in the Year/Make of the vehicle or vessel.
  3. Choose the appropriate section for your situation:
    • A: Statement for Use Tax Exemption. Select the reason for the exemption and provide the current market value.
    • B: Statement for Smog Exemption. Indicate why the vehicle does not require a smog certification.
    • C: Statement for Transfer Only or Title Only. Confirm that the vehicle has not been used or parked on public highways.
    • D: Window Decal for Wheelchair Lift or Carrier. Enter the relevant license plate or placard number and vehicle details.
    • E: Statement for Vehicle Body Change. Provide the current market value and details of any changes made.
    • F: Name Statement. Indicate if you are correcting a misspelled name or changing your name.
  4. In section G, provide any additional statements of fact if necessary.
  5. Sign and date the form in section H. Include your printed name and daytime phone number.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the DMV Reg 256 form used for?

The DMV Reg 256 form, known as the Statement of Facts, is used to provide necessary information regarding vehicle transfers in California. It covers various exemptions such as use tax, smog certification, and changes in ownership. Completing this form ensures compliance with state regulations during the transfer process.

Who needs to fill out the DMV Reg 256 form?

Anyone involved in the transfer of a vehicle in California may need to fill out the DMV Reg 256 form. This includes individuals transferring ownership due to family circumstances, gifts, court orders, or inheritance. It is also required for those seeking exemptions from use tax or smog certification.

What are the use tax exemptions listed on the form?

The form outlines several use tax exemptions. These include transfers between family members, gifts, court orders, and inheritances. However, if the vehicle was purchased from a qualifying relative who sells vehicles as a business, the exemption cannot be claimed.

How does the smog exemption work?

The smog exemption applies if the vehicle does not require smog certification for ownership transfer. This can occur if the last smog check was completed within 90 days, if the vehicle is powered by electricity or diesel, or if it is being transferred between certain family members. There are also specific conditions for vehicles leased or operated by certain businesses.

What is the purpose of the "Transfer Only" or "Title Only" section?

This section is for individuals who want to transfer ownership or obtain a title without registering the vehicle. It confirms that the vehicle has not been used or parked on public highways, thus avoiding any registration fees. This is essential for those who plan to register the vehicle later.

What information is required for the wheelchair lift or carrier decal?

To obtain a window decal for a wheelchair lift or carrier, the applicant must provide their Disabled Person License Plate, Disabled Veteran Plate, or Permanent Disabled Person Parking Placard number. Additionally, details about the vehicle to which the decal will be affixed must be included.

What should I do if my name is misspelled on the form?

If your name is misspelled, you need to indicate the correction on the form. Clearly print your correct name in the designated section to ensure that the DMV updates their records accurately.

How do I certify the information provided on the DMV Reg 256 form?

At the end of the form, you must sign Section H to certify that the information is true and correct. This signature is a declaration under penalty of perjury, emphasizing the importance of providing accurate details.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Many individuals forget to fill out all required sections of the form. Each section must be completed in full, including vehicle descriptions, to avoid delays in processing.

  2. Missing Signatures: Failing to sign Section H is a common oversight. Without a signature, the form cannot be processed, which can lead to unnecessary complications.

  3. Incorrect Vehicle Information: Providing incorrect details about the vehicle, such as the license plate number or vehicle ID number, can result in the rejection of the form.

  4. Not Specifying the Correct Exemption: Applicants often select the wrong exemption type for use tax or smog exemption. It is crucial to carefully read the options and select the one that applies to the situation.

  5. Omitting the Current Market Value: Leaving the current market value blank can delay the processing of the form. This information is essential for tax purposes.

  6. Failure to Provide Supporting Documentation: Some sections require additional documents, such as a Public Weighmaster Certificate for weight changes. Not including these can lead to rejection.

  7. Incorrectly Identifying Family Relationships: Misunderstanding the definitions of family relationships for exemptions can lead to errors. Ensure that the relationship qualifies under the stated criteria.

  8. Neglecting to Update Personal Information: If there has been a change of name or address, it is vital to update this information on the form. Failing to do so can cause confusion and delays.

  9. Not Checking for Additional Requirements: Each exemption may have specific requirements. For instance, smog exemptions may require proof of the last certification, which should not be overlooked.

  10. Ignoring Instructions: Skipping over the instructions provided on the form can lead to mistakes. Reading and understanding these instructions is essential for accurate completion.

Documents used along the form

When dealing with vehicle transfers and registrations, the DMV Reg 256 form is just one piece of the puzzle. Several other forms and documents are often needed to ensure a smooth process. Here’s a brief overview of some of these important documents:

  • DMV Reg 343: This form is used for a change of address for vehicle registration. If you’ve moved, it’s essential to update your address to avoid potential fines and ensure you receive important notifications.
  • DMV Reg 227: This document is required for a vehicle title transfer. It provides details about the vehicle and the parties involved in the transfer, ensuring that ownership is legally documented.
  • DMV Reg 256A: This form is specifically for claiming a use tax exemption. It outlines the reasons why the transfer may not be subject to use tax, which can save money during the registration process.
  • DMV Reg 31: This is the application for a duplicate title. If your title has been lost or damaged, this form allows you to request a replacement so you can continue with the transfer or registration.
  • DMV Reg 400: This form is used to apply for a smog exemption. If your vehicle qualifies, it can simplify the transfer process by eliminating the need for a smog check.
  • DMV Reg 262: This document is necessary for reporting a vehicle's odometer reading during a transfer. Accurate odometer readings are crucial for maintaining transparency in vehicle history.

Having these forms ready can streamline your experience at the DMV. Each document plays a specific role in the vehicle registration process, ensuring that everything is in order and compliant with state regulations. Make sure to gather the necessary paperwork before your visit to avoid any delays.

Similar forms

The DMV REG 256 form is similar to several other documents that serve various purposes related to vehicle registration and ownership. Below is a list of eight documents that share similarities with the DMV REG 256 form:

  • DMV REG 343: This form is used for reporting a vehicle's change of ownership. Like the REG 256, it requires detailed vehicle information and signatures from the parties involved in the transfer.
  • DMV REG 227: This document is a statement of facts for a vehicle transfer, similar to the REG 256. It addresses reasons for the transfer and may include exemptions from fees or taxes.
  • DMV REG 262: This form is used to apply for a duplicate title. It requires information about the vehicle and the reason for the request, akin to the statements made in the REG 256.
  • DMV REG 31: This is a notice of transfer and release of liability. It serves to inform the DMV of a vehicle sale, similar to how the REG 256 indicates ownership changes.
  • DMV REG 256A: This form is specifically for use tax exemptions related to vehicle transfers. It parallels the use tax exemption section of the REG 256.
  • DMV REG 401: This document is used for reporting a change in vehicle use or ownership status. It includes statements about the vehicle's condition and usage, similar to the REG 256.
  • DMV REG 503: This is a statement of facts for smog certification exemptions. It outlines conditions under which a vehicle may be exempt from smog checks, akin to the smog exemption section of the REG 256.
  • DMV REG 14: This form is a vehicle statement for a family transfer. It is used to declare the familial relationship in transfers, similar to the family transfer section of the REG 256.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DMV Reg 256 form, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Below is a list of things you should and shouldn't do during this process.

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting the form.
  • Do provide complete and accurate information in all sections, including vehicle descriptions.
  • Do sign Section H to certify that the information is true and correct.
  • Do double-check the current market value of the vehicle or vessel.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank; incomplete forms may be rejected.
  • Don't claim exemptions without ensuring you meet the necessary criteria.
  • Don't forget to keep a copy of the completed form for your records.

Misconceptions

Understanding the DMV Reg 256 form can be tricky, and several misconceptions often arise. Here’s a list of common misunderstandings about this form, along with clarifications to help set the record straight.

  • Misconception 1: The DMV Reg 256 form is only for vehicle transfers.
  • This form can be used for various purposes, including smog exemptions and name changes, not just vehicle transfers.

  • Misconception 2: You can claim a use tax exemption for any family transfer.
  • Not all family transfers qualify. The transfer must meet specific criteria, such as being between certain relatives and not involving a business sale.

  • Misconception 3: A smog certification is always required for vehicle transfers.
  • In many cases, vehicles may be exempt from smog certification based on specific conditions outlined in the form.

  • Misconception 4: You can submit the form without a signature.
  • A signature is mandatory. The form must be signed to certify that the information provided is accurate.

  • Misconception 5: The form is only for California residents.
  • While it is primarily for California, certain exemptions apply to vehicles located outside the state.

  • Misconception 6: You don’t need to provide vehicle details.
  • Complete vehicle information is essential, including the vehicle ID number and description, to ensure proper processing.

  • Misconception 7: The form can be submitted electronically.
  • The DMV typically requires a physical submission of the form, so be prepared to mail or hand-deliver it.

  • Misconception 8: You can use the form for any type of vehicle.
  • Some sections of the form may apply specifically to vehicles or vessels, so be sure to check the relevant sections.

  • Misconception 9: The DMV will automatically process the form without follow-up.
  • It’s important to follow up with the DMV to ensure your form has been processed correctly.

  • Misconception 10: The DMV Reg 256 form is the only document needed for vehicle transfer.
  • Other documents may be required depending on the specific circumstances of the transfer, such as ownership certificates or proof of identity.

Key takeaways

Here are some key takeaways about filling out and using the DMV Reg 256 form:

  • Complete All Sections: Make sure to fill out all relevant sections of the form, including vehicle descriptions and signatures.
  • Use Tax Exemption: You can claim a use tax exemption for family transfers, gifts, court orders, or inheritances, but not for purchases from a qualifying relative who sells vehicles.
  • Smog Exemption: A smog certification is not required if the vehicle was certified within the last 90 days or if it falls under certain categories like being powered by electricity or being transferred between family members.
  • Transfer Only or Title Only: If the vehicle hasn’t been used on public highways, you can apply for a transfer only or title only.
  • Window Decal Information: If you need a window decal for a wheelchair lift or carrier, provide your Disabled Person License Plate or Permanent Disabled Person Parking Placard number.
  • Vehicle Body Changes: If you've made changes to the vehicle body, you must indicate the current market value and the cost of changes on the form.
  • Name Statement: If your name is misspelled or you’re changing your name, you must clearly state this and provide the correct information.
  • Signature Required: Don’t forget to sign the form. Your signature certifies that the information you provided is true and correct.
  • Mailing Instructions: After completing the form, mail it to the appropriate address provided on the form to ensure it is processed correctly.