Buying Out Of State Motorcycle In California
Are you planning to buy a motorcycle in California, but the one you want is located out of state? Don't worry, you can still make the purchase and bring it back to California. However, there are certain things you need to consider to ensure a smooth and legal transaction. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of buying an out of state motorcycle in California.
Research Your Motorcycle
Before making any purchase, it's important to research the motorcycle you want to buy. Check online reviews, forums, and other reliable sources to learn about the motorcycle's features, performance, and reliability. Additionally, you need to verify that the motorcycle is street legal in California. Check the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website to see if the motorcycle is on the list of approved models. If not, you may need to go through a process called 'Direct Import' to bring it into the state legally.
Find a Reputable Seller
Once you have found the motorcycle you want to buy, the next step is to find a reputable seller. Look for dealerships or private sellers with a good reputation and positive reviews. You can also check the seller's history on websites like the Better Business Bureau or the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS). These websites can give you a better idea of the seller's history and whether they have any outstanding issues or negative reviews.
Get the Necessary Paperwork
Before buying the motorcycle, make sure you have all the necessary paperwork. This includes the title, registration, and bill of sale. If you're buying from a private seller, make sure the title is in their name and that they're the legal owner of the motorcycle. If you're buying from a dealership, they should provide you with all the necessary paperwork. If the motorcycle is financed, you'll also need to get the lienholder's information and pay off any outstanding loans before transferring the title.
Transporting the Motorcycle to California
Once you've bought the motorcycle and have all the necessary paperwork, the next step is to transport it to California. You can either ride it back yourself or hire a professional transport company to do it for you. If you're riding the motorcycle back, make sure you have insurance and a valid license. You'll also need to get a temporary operating permit from the DMV to legally ride the motorcycle in California. If you're hiring a transport company, make sure they're licensed and insured and that they have experience transporting motorcycles across state lines.
Registering the Motorcycle in California
Once the motorcycle is in California, you'll need to register it with the DMV. You'll need to provide proof of ownership, such as the title, and pay the necessary fees. You'll also need to get the motorcycle smog checked if it's a model year 2000 or newer. Additionally, if the motorcycle is over 7 years old, you'll need to get a VIN verification from an authorized DMV representative or a licensed California vehicle verifier. Once you've completed the registration process, you'll be issued a new California license plate and registration card.
Conclusion
Buying an out of state motorcycle in California can be a great way to get the motorcycle you want at a good price. However, it's important to do your research and make sure you follow all the necessary steps to ensure a smooth and legal transaction. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can avoid potential pitfalls and enjoy your new motorcycle in California.
