California Residents Purchasing Vehicles from California
If you’re a California resident purchasing a vehicle from out of state, you can follow our normal process to bid on and buy vehicles. If you’re a California resident purchasing a vehicle that’s located in California, the process is a bit different. Since California purchases are completed through an affiliated dealer, they will process your paperwork.
Do I have to pay a sales tax and fees?
California residents buying a vehicle in California will pay an 8.75% sales tax, which you won’t have to pay again when you register the vehicle with the DMV. Buyers are typically responsible for back fees in California, but with a REG 262, you won’t have to pay back fees and penalties.
If you’re a California resident buying a vehicle from another state, you won’t have to pay any additional sales tax at the time of purchase.
What kind of ownership documents will I get?
Since California purchases are completed through an affiliated dealer, they will process your paperwork. Instead of a title, you’ll receive an Acquisition Bill of Sale. This is also known as a REG 262, which may be able to be changed to a salvage title when you register with the California DMV. Keep in mind, you’ll have to make all the necessary repairs and go through the DMV inspection process to register the vehicle as a salvage title. This doesn’t apply if you’re purchasing a vehicle from out of state.
If the vehicle has a Non-Repairable California title, you won't be able to register it as a California resident. You can still purchase the vehicle, but you’ll receive a non-repairable title and the REG 262 form with no acquisition number.
Can I export vehicles from California?
If you’re a California resident who is buying a vehicle specifically to export it, you just need to let us know beforehand. Instead of the REG 262 form, you’ll receive the regular title (as indicated in the listing) that is for export only.
What about shipping?
Whether you’re buying a vehicle in California or from another state, we can facilitate the shipment of your vehicle anywhere! All vehicles purchased through AutoBidMaster, and our affiliated dealers need to be removed from the yard by a licensed tow provider and shipped to your desired location. Regardless of the vehicle’s condition, it can’t be driven off of the lot.
We make shipping easy for you. Just click “Book Shipping” for a hassle-free shipping process that you can track right from your AutoBidMaster account.
Special provisions for residents of California, Missouri, Kansas, Texas and Wisconsin
If the vehicle you purchase is located in the same state as your address in our membership records, you will be automatically enrolled in AutoBidMaster Home Delivery. With AutoBidMaster Home Delivery, AutoBidMaster or an AutoBidMaster affiliated entity will deliver the purchase to you, for an additional fee. All purchases from in-state auctions require AutoBidMaster Home Delivery.