Are you planning to buy a car in California but unsure about the process and requirements? Look no further! In this blog post, we will guide you through everything you need to know about purchasing a car in the Golden State.
From paperwork and documentation to insurance and registration, this comprehensive guide will cover all the essential information you need to have before buying a car in California. So, if you’re wondering what you need to buy a car in California, keep reading and let us help you navigate the car-buying process hassle-free!
What Do You Need To Buy A Car In California
Before embarking on the journey of purchasing a car in California, it is essential to understand the requirements and documents needed to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. This article will outline the necessary information and documents you need before buying a car in California, including proper identification, proof of insurance, a valid driver’s license, and other relevant paperwork. Understanding these requirements will help individuals navigate the car buying process efficiently and confidently.
Researching car options in California
Before buying a car in California, it is important to do your research and determine the best car options for your needs. Consider factors such as the size, make, model, and fuel efficiency of the car.
With California’s strict emissions requirements, it may also be beneficial to look for a hybrid or electric vehicle. Additionally, check the car’s history and performance to ensure it is reliable and meets your expectations.
Determine your budget
When buying a car in California, it is crucial to determine your budget. Consider factors such as the purchase price, maintenance costs, insurance rates, and fuel expenses.
Before making a decision, evaluate your income and expenses to ensure you can afford the car comfortably. It is also a good idea to check your credit score and research financing options to determine the best way to pay for your new car.
Research different car models
To buy a car in California, it is important to research different car models. Consider your needs and preferences, such as the size, style, and features you are looking for in a car.
Look up reviews and ratings to determine which models are reliable and have good resale value. Take into account factors such as fuel efficiency and safety features to find a car that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Find a reputable car dealership
Once you have determined your budget and the car model you want, it is time to find a reputable car dealership in California.
Look for dealerships that have a good reputation and a wide selection of cars. Check for online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends and family.
Visit the dealership in person to see if they have the car you want and to confirm the prices.
Get auto insurance
In California, it is mandatory to have auto insurance to drive legally. Before buying a car, make sure you have insurance coverage that meets the state’s requirements.
You can obtain quotes from different insurance companies to find the best rates and coverage options. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of insurance when determining your overall budget for buying a car.
Consider fuel efficiency and environmental impact
When buying a car in California, it is important to consider fuel efficiency and environmental impact. California has strict regulations on emissions, so it is important to choose a car that is eco-friendly. Look for cars that are hybrid or electric, as they have lower emissions and better fuel efficiency.
Consider the cost of fuel and how often you will need to fill up, as this can impact your overall budget. Additionally, research any tax incentives or rebates that may be available for purchasing a fuel-efficient vehicle in California.
Compare prices and deals from different dealerships
Consider fuel efficiency and environmental impact
When buying a car in California, it is important to consider fuel efficiency and environmental impact. California has strict regulations on emissions, so it is important to choose a car that is eco-friendly. Look for cars that are hybrid or electric, as they have lower emissions and better fuel efficiency.
Consider the cost of fuel and how often you will need to fill up, as this can impact your overall budget. Additionally, research any tax incentives or rebates that may be available for purchasing a fuel-efficient vehicle in California.
Compare prices and deals from different dealerships
Comparing prices and deals from different dealerships is crucial when buying a car in California. Take the time to research and visit various dealerships to ensure you are getting the best price.You can also check online platforms where individuals sell cars to potentially find better deals. Be sure to negotiate the price and consider any additional costs such as taxes and fees. By comparing prices, you can potentially save a significant amount of money on your car purchase.
Understanding the legal requirements in California
When buying a car in California, it is important to understand the legal requirements. You will need to have a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance before you can register and drive your new vehicle.
Additionally, California requires all vehicles to pass a smog check, so be prepared to have your car inspected for emissions compliance. Furthermore, you will need to provide the necessary documentation, including the vehicle’s title and registration, bill of sale, and any applicable transfer or sales tax forms. It is recommended to research and verify the specific requirements and fees with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to ensure a smooth and hassle-free buying experience.
Arrange financing or have enough savings
Before purchasing a car in California, it is important to consider your financing options. You can choose to secure a loan from a bank or credit union, or you may opt for dealership financing.It is a good idea to shop around and compare interest rates and terms to ensure you are getting the best deal possible. Alternatively, if you have the means, you can choose to pay in cash. Paying for the car upfront eliminates the need for financing and monthly payments.
However, be sure to budget for additional costs such as taxes, registration fees, and maintenance expenses. In conclusion, buying a car in California requires careful consideration of factors such as fuel efficiency, prices and deals, legal requirements, and financing options.
By researching and planning ahead, you can make an informed decision and enjoy your new vehicle on California’s beautiful roads.
Valid California driver’s license
In order to buy a car in California, you will need to have a valid driver’s license. This license shows that you are legally allowed to drive and operate a vehicle in the state. If you do not have a driver’s license, you will need to obtain one before purchasing a car.
Proof of insurance
Having proof of insurance is another requirement when buying a car in California. Insurance not only protects you in case of an accident or damage to your vehicle, but it is also a legal requirement in the state.You will need to provide proof of insurance when registering your new car.
Passing a smog check
California has strict emissions regulations, and all vehicles must pass a smog check before they can be registered and driven legally. This check ensures that your car is not emitting excessive pollutants into the air and is compliant with California’s environmental standards.Documentation
When buying a car in California, you will need to provide certain documentation to complete the transaction. This includes the vehicle’s title and registration, bill of sale, and any applicable transfer or sales tax forms.It is important to have all the necessary paperwork in order to legally transfer ownership of the vehicle.
Financing or savings
Before purchasing a car, you will need to consider your financing options or have enough savings to cover the cost. You can choose to secure a loan from a bank or credit union, or you can opt for dealership financing.Alternatively, if you have the means, you can choose to pay in cash.
Additional costs
Buying a car in California comes with additional costs such as taxes, registration fees, and maintenance expenses.It is important to budget and plan for these costs in addition to the purchase price of the vehicle. By understanding the legal requirements, financing options, and additional costs involved in buying a car in California, you can make an informed decision and have a smooth buying experience.
Car insurance policy
To legally drive a car in California, you need to have a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and pass a smog check. Additionally, you will need to provide necessary documentation such as the vehicle’s title and registration, bill of sale, and transfer or sales tax forms.
It is important to consider your financing options or savings and budget for additional costs such as taxes, registration fees, and maintenance expenses. By keeping these requirements in mind, you can ensure a smooth car-buying experience in California.
Registration and title transfer
In order to buy a car in California, there are several requirements that need to be met. Firstly, you will need to have a valid driver’s license and proof of car insurance.
California law also requires that a smog check be passed before a car can be legally driven. Additionally, you will need to provide documentation such as the vehicle’s title and registration, along with a bill of sale and transfer or sales tax forms. It is also important to factor in financing options or savings and budget for additional expenses such as taxes, registration fees, and ongoing maintenance costs.
By being prepared and keeping these requirements in mind, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free car buying experience in California.
Smog certification requirements
In order to buy a car in California, there are several requirements that need to be met. Firstly, you will need to have a valid driver’s license and proof of car insurance.
California law also requires that a smog check be passed before a car can be legally driven. Additionally, you will need to provide documentation such as the vehicle’s title and registration, along with a bill of sale and transfer or sales tax forms. It is also important to factor in financing options or savings and budget for additional expenses such as taxes, registration fees, and ongoing maintenance costs.
By being prepared and keeping these requirements in mind, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free car buying experience in California.
Financing options and payment considerations
When it comes to financing options, there are several routes you can take. You can choose to pay for the car upfront in cash, or you can explore financing options such as a car loan or leasing. If you decide to finance the car, it is important to consider factors such as interest rates, monthly payments, and the duration of the loan.
It is recommended to shop around and compare offers from different lenders or dealerships to ensure you are getting the best deal possible. Additionally, make sure to factor in your own budget and financial situation to determine how much you can afford to spend on a car.
While considering the financing options, it is crucial to also take into account additional costs associated with car ownership. These costs may include sales tax, registration fees, and ongoing maintenance expenses.
By factoring in these expenses and budgeting accordingly, you can ensure that you are fully prepared for the financial commitment of owning a car in California. Overall, buying a car in California requires fulfilling certain requirements such as a valid driver’s license, insurance, and a smog check. Additionally, considering financing options and budgeting for additional expenses is crucial for a smooth and successful car buying experience.
Exploring different financing options
When it comes to financing options, there are several routes you can take to buy a car in California. You can choose to pay for the car upfront in cash, or you can explore financing options such as a car loan or leasing.
If you decide to finance the car, it is important to consider factors such as interest rates, monthly payments, and the duration of the loan. It is recommended to shop around and compare offers from different lenders or dealerships to ensure you are getting the best deal possible. Additionally, make sure to factor in your own budget and financial situation to determine how much you can afford to spend on a car.
While considering the financing options, it is crucial to also take into account additional costs associated with car ownership. These costs may include sales tax, registration fees, and ongoing maintenance expenses.
By factoring in these expenses and budgeting accordingly, you can ensure that you are fully prepared for the financial commitment of owning a car in California. Overall, buying a car in California requires fulfilling certain requirements such as a valid driver’s license, insurance, and a smog check. Additionally, considering financing options and budgeting for additional expenses is crucial for a smooth and successful car buying experience.
Calculating monthly payments
When buying a car in California, it is important to calculate your monthly payments to determine how much you can afford. This can be done by taking into account factors such as the purchase price, interest rate, and duration of the loan or lease.
There are numerous online tools and calculators available that can help you with this process. By inputting the necessary information, you can estimate what your monthly payments will be and ensure that they fit within your budget. It is important to remember that in addition to the monthly payments, you may also need to budget for insurance, fuel, and other ongoing expenses related to owning a car.
Calculating your monthly payments allows you to plan your finances and make informed decisions about your car purchase. It is advisable to be realistic and consider your current and future financial situation when determining how much you can afford to spend on a car. Taking the time to calculate and budget properly will help you make a wise and financially responsible decision when buying a car in California.
Understanding interest rates and loan terms
When buying a car in California, it is important to understand interest rates and loan terms. Interest rates can greatly affect the overall cost of your car purchase and the amount of your monthly payments.
It is advisable to shop around and compare rates from different lenders to ensure you are getting the best deal. Loan terms refer to the duration of your loan or lease agreement. Shorter loan terms typically come with higher monthly payments but can save you money on interest in the long run.
Longer loan terms may offer lower monthly payments but can result in paying more interest over time. It is important to carefully review and understand the terms of your loan agreement before signing.
Make sure you are comfortable with the interest rate and loan duration, and consider any penalties or fees that may be associated with early repayment. By being knowledgeable about interest rates and loan terms, you can make a more informed decision and potentially save money when buying a car in California.
Negotiating a fair price
One of the important aspects of buying a car in California is negotiating a fair price. Before visiting a dealership, it is recommended to research the market value of the car you are interested in. This will help you have a better understanding of what a reasonable price range is for the vehicle.
During the negotiation process, be prepared to walk away if the price is not to your liking. There is often room for negotiation, so don’t be afraid to negotiate a lower price or ask for additional perks such as complimentary maintenance or extended warranties.
Be aware of any additional fees that may be added to the final price, such as documentation fees or dealer prep fees. These can significantly increase the overall cost of the car. By being well-prepared and confident during the negotiation process, you can increase your chances of getting a fair price on your car purchase in California.
Inspecting and testdriving the car
Once you have negotiated a price and are ready to move forward with your car purchase in California, it is important to inspect and test-drive the car before making a final decision. During the inspection, be sure to check for any signs of damage or issues with the exterior and interior of the car. It is also a good idea to have a trusted mechanic inspect the car to ensure that there are no hidden mechanical issues.
During the test drive, pay attention to how the car handles and performs. Test the brakes, acceleration, and steering to make sure everything is in working order.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions or voice any concerns you may have during this process. By thoroughly inspecting and test-driving the car, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are making a well-informed decision before finalizing your car purchase in California.
Checking the vehicle history report
Once you have found a car that meets your needs and budget, it is important to check the vehicle history report before making a purchase in California. This report will provide you with valuable information about the car’s past, including any accidents, title changes, or any potential issues.
To obtain the vehicle history report, you will need the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the car.
This can usually be found on the driver’s side dashboard or door jamb. Once you have the VIN, you can use an online service such as Carfax or AutoCheck to run the report.
By checking the vehicle history report, you can make sure that the car you are buying is not a salvage vehicle, flood-damaged, or has any other problems that may affect its value or safety. This step is essential to ensure that you are getting a reliable and legitimate car when buying in California.
Arranging financing and insurance
Inspecting the car’s exterior and interior
Before buying a car in California, there are a few important steps that you need to take. One of the first things you should do is check the vehicle history report. This report will give you valuable information about the car’s past, such as any accidents or title changes.
To get this report, you will need the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the car, which can usually be found on the driver’s side dashboard or door jamb. Once you have the VIN, you can use an online service like Carfax or AutoCheck to generate the report.
By checking the vehicle history report, you can ensure that the car you are purchasing is not a salvage vehicle or has any other issues that may affect its value or safety. Once you have determined that the car has a clean history, you can move on to arranging financing and insurance.
It is important to have a plan in place for how you will pay for the car and meet any insurance requirements in California. You may choose to finance the car through a bank or credit union, or you can arrange financing through the dealership. Additionally, you will need to obtain auto insurance before you can legally drive the car in California.
Shopping around and comparing rates from different insurance providers can help you find the best coverage at a price that fits your budget. Lastly, before finalizing the purchase, it is crucial to inspect the car’s exterior and interior thoroughly. Look for any signs of damage or wear and tear, such as scratches, dents, or stains.
Check all the functions of the car, including the lights, wipers, air conditioning, and brakes. This is also a good time to test drive the car and see how it handles on the road.
If you’re not comfortable inspecting the car yourself, you can hire a mechanic to provide a professional inspection. Overall, buying a car in California requires careful planning and research. By checking the vehicle history report, arranging financing and insurance, and thoroughly inspecting the car, you can ensure that you are buying a reliable and safe vehicle.
Testdriving the car
Before finalizing the purchase of a car in California, it is crucial to thoroughly inspect the vehicle’s exterior and interior. This includes checking for any signs of damage or wear and tear, such as scratches, dents, or stains.
It’s also important to test all the functions of the car, such as the lights, wipers, air conditioning, and brakes. Additionally, taking the car for a test drive can give you a better sense of how it handles on the road. If you’re not comfortable inspecting the car yourself, hiring a mechanic to provide a professional inspection is a good option.
Ensuring that the car is in good condition will help you make a confident purchase and avoid any unexpected issues down the road.
Reviewing maintenance records and warranties
When buying a car in California, it is important to review the vehicle’s maintenance records and warranties. This will give you a better understanding of the car’s history and any repairs or regular maintenance it may have undergone.
Reviewing the maintenance records will also help you determine if the car has been well taken care of and if any major issues have been addressed. Additionally, checking for any remaining warranties on the car can provide added peace of mind in terms of potential future repairs.
Overall, reviewing maintenance records and warranties is an important step in ensuring the reliability and longevity of the car you’re considering purchasing.
Obtaining insurance and registration
Before driving your newly purchased car in California, it is necessary to obtain insurance and complete the registration process.
In order to obtain insurance, you’ll need to provide the car’s vehicle identification number (VIN) and other pertinent information to an insurance company. They will then provide you with a policy that meets the state’s minimum requirements.
Once insured, you can proceed with the registration process. This typically involves completing the necessary forms, providing proof of insurance, paying the registration fee, and obtaining license plates and tags for your car.
It is important to note that you will also need to provide a valid driver’s license and proof of ownership, such as a title or bill of sale, when completing the registration process.
Finalizing the purchase and payment
After inspecting the car, reviewing maintenance records, and obtaining insurance and registration, the final step is to finalize the purchase and make payment.
If you are purchasing from a dealership, they will typically handle the paperwork and guide you through the payment process. This includes signing the necessary documents, such as the sales contract and financing agreements, and making the agreed upon payment.
If you are buying from a private seller, it is important to ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed accurately.
This includes transferring the title and providing the necessary documentation to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Before making payment, it is important to confirm that the seller has the right to sell the car and that there are no outstanding liens on the vehicle. This can help protect you from any legal or financial issues that may arise after purchase.
By following these steps and being thorough in your research and inspection, you can confidently purchase a car in California that meets your needs and is within your budget.
Completing the purchase process
When buying a car in California, there are several important steps you need to take in order to complete the purchase process. One of the first things you should do is review the vehicle’s maintenance records and warranties.
This will give you insight into the car’s history and any repairs it has undergone. It will also help you determine if the car has been well taken care of and if any major issues have been addressed. Once you have reviewed the maintenance records, you will need to obtain insurance and complete the registration process.
To obtain insurance, you will need to provide the car’s vehicle identification number (VIN) and other pertinent information to an insurance company. They will then provide you with a policy that meets the state’s minimum requirements. After obtaining insurance, you can proceed with the registration process.
This typically involves completing the necessary forms, providing proof of insurance, paying the registration fee, and obtaining license plates and tags for your car. The final step in the purchase process is to finalize the purchase and make payment.
If you are purchasing from a dealership, they will handle the paperwork and guide you through the payment process. This includes signing the necessary documents, such as the sales contract and financing agreements, and making the agreed upon payment. If you are buying from a private seller, it is important to ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed accurately, including transferring the title and providing documentation to the DMV.
Before making payment, it is crucial to confirm that the seller has the right to sell the car and that there are no outstanding liens on the vehicle. By following these steps and being thorough in your research and inspection, you can confidently purchase a car in California that meets your needs and is within your budget.
Finalizing the paperwork with the seller or dealership
Once you have completed the necessary steps in the purchase process, it is time to finalize the paperwork with the seller or dealership. If you are buying from a dealership, they will handle most of the paperwork for you.
This includes signing the sales contract, financing agreements (if applicable), and any other necessary documents. They will also guide you through the payment process, ensuring that everything is handled correctly. If you are purchasing from a private seller, it is important to make sure all the necessary paperwork is completed accurately.
This includes transferring the title into your name, providing the required documentation to the DMV, and ensuring that any liens on the vehicle have been resolved. It is crucial to confirm that the seller has the legal right to sell the car and that there are no outstanding issues that could affect your ownership.
Before making the final payment, it is a good idea to thoroughly inspect the car one last time to ensure that everything is as expected. This includes checking the vehicle’s condition, mileage, and any additional features or accessories that were agreed upon. Once you are satisfied with the car and have completed all the necessary paperwork, you can finalize the purchase by making the agreed-upon payment.
By following these steps and being thorough in your research and inspection, you can confidently complete the purchase process and become the proud owner of a car in California.
Paying sales tax and other fees
After finalizing the paperwork, you will also need to pay sales tax and other fees associated with buying a car in California. The sales tax rate in California varies depending on the county you live in, with rates typically ranging from 25% to
75%. This can add a significant amount to the total cost of your vehicle purchase, so be sure to factor this into your budget.
Additionally, you will need to pay various other fees such as registration fees, which are based on the value and age of the vehicle, and documentation fees, which cover the cost of processing the necessary paperwork. These fees can vary, so it is important to check with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or your dealership to get an accurate estimate of the total cost. Finally, if you are taking out a loan to finance your car purchase, you will need to factor in the cost of interest and any additional fees associated with the loan.
Be sure to carefully read and understand the terms of your loan agreement before signing. In conclusion, buying a car in California requires completing the necessary paperwork, paying sales tax and other fees, and potentially financing the purchase.
By understanding these requirements and being thorough in your research and inspection, you can navigate the car buying process in California with confidence.
Transferring ownership and getting new license plates
After finalizing the paperwork, you will also need to pay sales tax and other fees associated with buying a car in California. The sales tax rate in California varies depending on the county you live in, with rates typically ranging from 25% to
75%. This can add a significant amount to the total cost of your vehicle purchase, so be sure to factor this into your budget.
Additionally, you will need to pay various other fees such as registration fees, which are based on the value and age of the vehicle, and documentation fees, which cover the cost of processing the necessary paperwork. These fees can vary, so it is important to check with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or your dealership to get an accurate estimate of the total cost.
Finally, if you are taking out a loan to finance your car purchase, you will need to factor in the cost of interest and any additional fees associated with the loan. Be sure to carefully read and understand the terms of your loan agreement before signing. In conclusion, buying a car in California requires completing the necessary paperwork, paying sales tax and other fees, and potentially financing the purchase.
By understanding these requirements and being thorough in your research and inspection, you can navigate the car buying process in California with confidence. Transferring ownership and getting new license plates is another important step in buying a car in California. Once you have completed the purchase, you will need to transfer the vehicle’s ownership into your name.
This can be done at the DMV by submitting the necessary documents, such as the proof of sale, title certificate, and proof of insurance. In addition, you will need to obtain new license plates for your vehicle.
This can be done at the DMV as well. You may need to provide proof of ownership, proof of insurance, and pay a fee for the new plates. It is important to note that the DMV may have specific requirements and procedures for transferring ownership and getting new license plates, so be sure to check their website or contact them directly for detailed information. Overall, buying a car in California involves not only the initial purchase and paperwork but also paying taxes and fees, as well as transferring ownership and getting new license plates. By understanding and following these requirements, you can ensure a smooth and legal car buying experience in the Golden State.
Keeping track of important documents and receipts
When buying a car in California, it is crucial to keep track of important documents and receipts throughout the process. Firstly, you will need to gather the necessary paperwork for transferring ownership and getting new license plates.
This includes the proof of sale, title certificate, and proof of insurance. It is important to submit these documents to the DMV and follow their specific requirements and procedures. In addition to the paperwork, it is essential to keep track of receipts for any fees paid during the car buying process.
This includes sales tax, registration fees, documentation fees, and any other charges associated with the purchase. By keeping these receipts, you can have proof of payment in case any discrepancies or issues arise in the future.
Furthermore, it is advisable to keep a record of any loan agreements or financing arrangements made for the car purchase. This includes important documents such as the loan agreement, interest rates, and payment schedules. By maintaining these records, you can stay organized and ensure that you are fulfilling your financial obligations.
Overall, keeping track of important documents and receipts is vital when buying a car in California. By doing so, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free car buying experience, while also having the necessary proof and information for future reference.
Conclusion of What Do You Need To Buy A Car In California
If you’re planning to buy a car in California, there are a few things you’ll need to make the process smooth. Firstly, you’ll need a valid driver’s license issued in California or another state. You’ll also need proof of insurance and a registration card to complete the transaction.
Additionally, be prepared to provide a valid form of payment, such as cash or a loan approval. Make sure to have these essentials in place before embarking on your car-buying journey in California.
FAQ’s of What Do You Need To Buy A Car In California
What is the process of getting a car?
The process of getting a car generally involves steps such as researching and selecting the car model, determining a budget, financing options, and test driving the car. Once these initial steps are completed, the next steps generally involve negotiating the price, finalizing financing, and completing the necessary paperwork, such as registration and insurance. After all the paperwork is complete, the final step is taking possession of the car.
What documents do you need to buy a car in California?
To buy a car in California, you typically need a few important documents. These include a valid identification card or driver’s license, proof of car insurance, and proof of your address. Additionally, you may need to provide your social security number and a completed application for the Certificate of Title.
Do you have to have a California license to buy a car in California?
No, you do not have to have a California license to buy a car in California. Both residents and non-residents can purchase and register a vehicle in the state, although non-residents may need to provide additional documentation such as proof of identification and out-of-state address.
Do you need a California driver’s license to drive a car in California?
Yes, in order to legally drive a car in California, you need to have a valid California driver’s license.
What is the process of getting a car in California?
The process of getting a car in California typically involves several steps. First, you need to choose the car you want to buy and make sure it meets your needs and budget. Then, you will need to find a reputable dealership or private seller to purchase the car from. Once you’ve found the car, you will need to negotiate the price and complete the necessary paperwork, such as a bill of sale and vehicle history report. Afterward, you’ll need to obtain auto insurance for the car, as it is a legal requirement in California. You can shop around for the best insurance rates and coverage options. Next, you will need to register the vehicle with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within ten days of purchasing or acquiring the vehicle. To register the car, you’ll need to provide the necessary documents, including the bill of sale, title, smog certificate (if applicable), proof of insurance, and completed application forms. Additionally, you may need to pay registration and title fees, as well as any applicable taxes. Finally, you’ll receive your license plates and registration card, completing the process of getting a car in California.