California Vehicle Power of Attorney
A vehicle power of attorney in California uses REG 260 and requires notarization. Notary fee: $15/signature.
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Notarization Required in California
Notarization is mandatory for all CA vehicle POAs. A notarized REG 260 is required whenever someone signs a title on behalf of the owner. Notary fee: $15/signature. California cap is $15 per signature — the highest state cap nationally.
Official Form
REG 260
California DMV Power of Attorney — available at DMV offices and dmv.ca.gov.
Notary Fee
$15/signature
California cap is $15 per signature — the highest state cap nationally.
Durable POA Available
Yes
California allows durable vehicle POA that survives incapacitation of the principal. Useful for long-term arrangements like deployed military personnel.
Who Can Serve as Agent
Any adult 18+ named as agent; dealers commonly named for sales; family members for deployed/hospitalized principals
The agent must have the original notarized REG 260 — a copy is not accepted.
Common Uses for California Vehicle POA
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Dealer signing title on seller's behalf
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Deployed military vehicle transactions
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Disabled owner unable to appear in person
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Estate vehicle sales before probate completes
CA REG 260 is the most frequently used vehicle POA form in the country due to CA's high transaction volume.
Processing & Revocation
Processing Time
Immediate for title signing; DMV processing 4–8 weeks
The POA authorizes the agent to sign — but DMV still takes its normal processing time.
Revoking a Vehicle POA
Written revocation submitted to DMV; any prior REG 260 becomes void once DMV is notified
Dealer-held REG 260 forms should be revoked in writing if the sale falls through.
California-Specific Note
CA REG 260 can also authorize an agent to apply for a replacement title, transfer ownership, or release a lien — depending on the boxes checked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does California require a notarized vehicle power of attorney?
Yes — California requires notarization for vehicle POAs. Notarization is mandatory for all CA vehicle POAs. A notarized REG 260 is required whenever someone signs a title on behalf of the owner.
What form do I use for a vehicle power of attorney in California?
California uses REG 260. California DMV Power of Attorney — available at DMV offices and dmv.ca.gov.
How much does it cost to notarize a vehicle POA in California?
$15/signature. California cap is $15 per signature — the highest state cap nationally.
Can I use a durable vehicle power of attorney in California?
Yes — California allows durable vehicle POA. California allows durable vehicle POA that survives incapacitation of the principal. Useful for long-term arrangements like deployed military personnel.
California DMV
https://www.dmv.ca.gov ↗