The DMV REG 256 form, known as the Statement of Facts, is a crucial document provided by the California Department of Motor Vehicles. It serves various purposes, accommodating sections on use tax exemption, smog exemption, transfer or title application, and more, tailored to specific vehicle-related situations. Whether for declaring a family transfer, claiming a smog exemption, or applying for a wheelchair lift decal, completing this form correctly is essential.
Ready to ensure your vehicle transaction complies with California regulations? Click the button below to start filling out your DMV REG 256 form with confidence.
In the array of documents essential for vehicle transaction processes within California, the Department of Motor Vehicles' REG 256 form, or the Statement of Facts, holds a significant place. This document is a versatile tool, addressing several key aspects of vehicle-related transactions. It facilitates the declaration of use tax exemption, often applicable in family transfers, including but not limited to transactions between parents, children, grandparents, spouses, and domestic partners, making it possible to bypass the tax that might otherwise apply to such transactions. It also covers situations like inheritance or court orders. The form is instrumental in declaring a vehicle's exemption from smog certification requirements under specific conditions, such as recent certification, non-usage in California, or transfer between certain family members, significantly easing the process of ownership transfer without the bureaucratic hurdles of smog compliance. Moreover, it addresses less common, yet crucial scenarios such as declarations for vehicle body changes, name discrepancies, or even acquiring window decals for vehicles equipped with wheelchair lifts or carriers, which underscores the breadth of its application. Finally, it caps off its utility with provisions for peculiar situations like applying for a transfer only or title only when a vehicle hasn’t been in use, highlighting its comprehensive role in streamlining vehicle documentation processes.
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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
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
Filling out the DMV Reg 256 form, also known as the Statement of Facts, is vital for various DMV transactions including use tax exemption, smog exemption, title transfers, and more. Accuracy is key to ensuring your DMV needs are met without unnecessary delays. Here's how to navigate through this form effectively:
After completing these steps, review the form to ensure all information is accurate and complete. Depending on the form's purpose, you may need to submit it with other required documents to the DMV, either in person or via mail, as directed by your specific situation.
What is a DMV Reg 256 form?
The DMV Reg 256 form, also known as the Statement of Facts, is a versatile document utilized by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This form is used to provide crucial information or to declare specific circumstances pertaining to a vehicle or vessel. It encompasses a variety of declarations such as use tax exemption, smog exemption, changes in vehicle registration status, and more. Completing the appropriate sections in full and signing Section H are necessary steps for submitting this form.
Who needs to fill out the DMV Reg 256 form?
This form is needed by individuals who need to declare certain facts or circumstances to the California DMV regarding their vehicle or vessel. This can include people who are transferring a vehicle and claiming a use tax exemption for transfers within a family, those exempting a vehicle from smog certification requirements under specific conditions, or individuals making significant changes to their vehicle's body, ownership, or operational status.
How can someone claim a use tax exemption using this form?
To claim a use tax exemption with the DMV Reg 256 form, one must complete section A, detailing the basis of the exemption. Common exemptions include family transfers (among parents, children, grandparents, grandchildren, spouses, domestic partners, or siblings if both are minors related by blood or adoption), gifts (excluding trade between individuals or for valuable consideration), court orders, and inheritances. Importantly, the exemption cannot be claimed if the vehicle was purchased from a relative engaged in selling similar vehicles as part of their business.
What are the requirements for claiming a smog exemption?
In section B, the form outlines several situations in which a vehicle may be exempt from smog certification for transfer of ownership. These include the last smog certification being obtained within the past 90 days, vehicles powered by electricity or diesel, vehicles located outside of California (with specific exceptions), or transfers involving family members, sole proprietors transferring to themselves, companies primarily leasing vehicles, and certain lessor-lessee configurations where there is no change in the lessee or operator. It is critical to note that if biennial smog certification is required, this exemption does not apply.
Can changes in vehicle body significantly affect the DMV documentation process?
Yes, significant changes in the vehicle body, such as alterations in the unladen weight, motive power, body type, or number of axles, require completion of section E on the DMV Reg 256 form. This is important for accurately updating the vehicle's registration and may require an ownership certificate. Details regarding the nature of the changes, their cost, and the current market value of the vehicle before and after changes must be provided. These alterations can affect the vehicle's classification and may necessitate new documentation, emphasizing the importance of this section for vehicle owners who have made substantial modifications.
When filling out the DMV REG 256 form, which serves various purposes from use tax exemption to smog exemption declarations, individuals often stumble over the intricate details necessary for accurate completion. Recognizing and avoiding these mistakes can streamline processes and avoid delays. Here are ten common missteps to watch for:
Awareness of these pitfalls and a careful review of the form before submission can greatly increase the efficiency and success of dealings with the Department of Motor Vehicles.
The DMV Reg 256 form is a crucial document for multiple vehicle transactions in California, ranging from use tax exemption to body changes on the vehicle. Accompanying this form, there are several other important documents often required to facilitate these transactions smoothly. Understanding these documents is important for anyone looking to navigate the process efficiently.
In summary, each of these forms plays a pivotal role in the varied aspects of vehicle transactions and ownership transfers. These documents ensure that all legal, safety, and administrative standards are met, providing a clear and traceable vehicle history for both buyers and sellers. Individuals dealing with vehicle transactions should familiarize themselves with the specific requirements and provisions of each document to ensure a smooth and compliant process.
Several documents share similarities with the DMV REG 256 form, primarily in purpose, structure, and the type of information they require. These documents play a crucial role in various legal, tax, vehicle management, and personal identification contexts:
Each of these documents, while serving specific functions, aligns with the DMV REG 256 form in their purpose of facilitating clear, legal procedures for vehicle-related transactions and declarations.
When it comes to filling out the DMV REG 256 form, it's crucial to handle the process with care to ensure all information is accurate and complies with California requirements. Here are several key dos and don’ts to guide you:
By adhering to these essentials, completing the DMV REG 256 form can be a smooth process, ensuring your vehicle or vessel transactions comply with California laws. Always double-check your entries and consult DMV resources or a professional if you're unsure about any requirements.
The California DMV REG 256 form is a versatile document utilized for various transactions and statements related to vehicles and vessels. However, several misconceptions exist about its usage and requirements. By clarifying these misconceptions, individuals can navigate their DMV transactions more smoothly.
Misconception: The REG 256 form is only for vehicle sales tax exemptions.Contrary to this common belief, the REG 256 form serves multiple purposes beyond tax exemptions. It includes statements for smog exemption, vehicle body changes, name changes, and more. This versatility makes it a crucial form for various DMV-related declarations.
Misconception: A smog certification is always required for transfer of ownership.The REG 256 form clarifies that smog certifications are not required in specific scenarios, such as transfers between family members or if the last smog certification was obtained within the last 90 days. Understanding these exemptions can save individuals time and effort during the vehicle transfer process.
Misconception: You can't use the REG 256 form for changes in vehicle information.This document is also essential for reporting significant changes to a vehicle, such as changes in motive power, body type, or number of axles. These details are crucial for accurate records and ensuring the vehicle meets all legal requirements.
Misconception: All sections of the REG 256 form must be completed for submission.One of the form's benefits is its design for specific circumstances. Individuals only need to complete the sections relevant to their transaction or declaration. This targeted approach simplifies the process, making it more efficient for users and the DMV.
Correcting these misconceptions about the DMV REG 256 form helps individuals approach DMV transactions with confidence, ensuring they have the necessary information to meet their needs accurately and effectively.
Filling out the DMV Reg 256 form, known as the Statement of Facts, is an important process for various vehicle-related transactions in California. Here are six key takeaways to guide you through the completion and usage of this form:
For seamless transactions involving vehicle or vessel changes, transfers, or exemptions, thoroughly completing and understanding the DMV Reg 256 is essential. Ensure all information is accurate and relevant sections are filled out to avoid processing delays.
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