Vehicle Code — Part 19 | VEH — United States — California law | Esheria

Vehicle Code

Part 19 of 19 · provisions 3,601–3,721

This section says the act is named the Vehicle Code.

Jurisdiction
United States — California
Instrument
Code
Citation
VEH
Version
Undated source snapshot
Language
en
Official source
View official record ↗
Complete work
View statute overview
DMV fee collection DMV notices DMV records DMV reporting DUI procedure DUI program DUI sentencing LPR data retention MSRP Motor vehicle theft prevention Parking lots Purple Heart recipients U-turns Vehicle parking abandoned vehicle abatement abandoned vehicle disposition abandoned vehicle procedures abandoned vehicles abandoned vessel handling ability to pay access rights access routes accessibility accessible parking +3,493 more

Statute overview

About this statute

The definitions in this code apply when construing the code unless the provision or context requires otherwise. “Ability to respond in damages” means financial responsibility. Police officers must report stolen-vehicle and lost-or-stolen plate information to the Department of Justice system, and the reporting agency must notify the reporting party when a vehicle is recovered. A person must not make or file a false or fraudulent vehicle-theft report with any law enforcement agency, if done with intent to deceive. A vehicle’s owner or legal owner may report theft or embezzlement to the California Highway Patrol, and must report recovery after making that notice.

Read the provisions Ask with citations

Legal text

Provisions of Vehicle Code

Showing 121 of 3,721

  1. 9553.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    Late vehicle-registration applications and unpaid fees can trigger penalties, with specific short grace periods for certain transfers and dealers.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9553. (a) A penalty shall be added upon any delinquent application as provided in Section 9552, except as provided in Section 4604 or 9706, or in subdivision (b). (b) When renewal fee penalties have not accrued with respect to a vehicle and the vehicle is transferred, the transferee has 20 days from the date of the transfer to pay the registration fees which become due without payment of penalties or to file a certification pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 4604 if the vehicle will not be operated, moved, or left standing upon any highway during the subsequent registration year, except as provided in subdivision (c). (c) (1) A dealer or lessor-retailer submitting an application for registration or transfer of a used vehicle shall have 30 days from the date of sale to submit the fees, without the penalty that otherwise would be required under subdivision (a). (2) This subdivision does not apply to penalties due or accrued prior to the date of sale by the dealer or lessor-retailer. (d) A penalty shall be added if the fees specified in Section 9255 are not paid within 20 days after they become delinquent. (e) In addition to the imposition of monetary fines or fees as specified in this section, delinquent registration may result in impoundment of the vehicle pursuant to Section 22651. (Amended by Stats. 2002, Ch. 805, Sec. 14. Effective September 23, 2002.)
  2. 9553.5.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    If registration fees are unpaid in full, the registrant must pay the remaining balance within 20 days after notice from the department.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9553.5. (a) Whenever fees have not been paid in full for an application for registration of vehicles registered pursuant to Article 4 (commencing with Section 8050) of Chapter 4, the registrant shall have 20 days from the date of notice by the department to pay the balance of the fees due. (b) Failure to pay the balance of the fees due within 20 days shall subject the application to penalties, as defined in Sections 9554 and 9554.5, on the unpaid portion of the California fees due. (Amended by Stats. 2008, Ch. 756, Sec. 20. Effective September 30, 2008.)
  3. 9553.7.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    A $15 penalty applies for delinquency involving a transfer, and it applies only to the last transfer.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9553.7. The penalty for delinquency with respect to any transfer is fifteen dollars ($15) and applies only to the last transfer. (Added by Stats. 2008, Ch. 756, Sec. 21. Effective September 30, 2008.)
  4. 9554.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    Late vehicle registration renewals can trigger added penalties, with specific dollar amounts or percentage assessments based on how late the payment is.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9554. (a) (1) A penalty shall be added on any application for renewal of registration made later than midnight of the date of expiration or on or after the date penalties become due. Penalties shall be computed as provided in Section 9559 and shall be collected with the fee. (2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), commencing on July 1, 2011, a penalty shall not be added if an application for renewal of registration, or an application for renewal of special license plates, is made within 30 days after midnight of the expiration date of the registration or special plates. This paragraph shall become inoperative on January 1, 2012. (b) The penalty assessment for the delinquent payment of the registration fee specified in Section 9250 shall be as follows: (1) Ten dollars ($10) for a delinquency period of 10 days or less. (2) Fifteen dollars ($15) for a delinquency period of more than 10 days, to and including 30 days. (3) Thirty dollars ($30) for a delinquency period of more than 30 days, to and including one year. (4) Fifty dollars ($50) for a delinquency period of more than one year, to and including two years. (5) One hundred dollars ($100) for a delinquency period of more than two years. (c) The penalty assessment for the delinquent payment of the weight fee specified in Section 9400 or 9400.1 and the vehicle license fee as specified in Section 10751 of the Revenue and Taxation Code shall be as follows: (1) Ten percent of the vehicle license fee, or the combined amount of the vehicle license fee and the weight fee if the vehicle is subject to both fees, for a delinquency period of 10 days or less. (2) Twenty percent of the vehicle license fee, or the combined amount of the vehicle license fee and the weight fee if the vehicle is subject to both fees, for a delinquency period of more than 10 days, to and including 30 days. (3) Sixty percent of the vehicle license fee, or the combined amount of the vehicle license fee and the weight fee if the vehicle is subject to both fees, for a delinquency period of more than 30 days, to and including one year. (4) Eighty percent of the vehicle license fee, or the combined amount of the vehicle license fee and the weight fee if the vehicle is subject to both fees, for a delinquency period of more than one year, to and including two years. (5) One hundred sixty percent of the vehicle license fee, or the combined amount of the vehicle license fee and the weight fee if the vehicle is subject to both fees, for a delinquency period of more than two years. (d) On or after January 1, 2003, a penalty assessment for weight fees not reported and not paid within 20 days as required by Section 9406 shall be applied to the difference in the weight fee as follows: (1) Ten percent of the fee for a delinquency period of 10 days or less. (2) Twenty percent of the fee for a delinquency period more than 10 days, to and including 30 days. (3) Sixty percent of the fee for a delinquency period more than 30 days, to and including one year. (4) Eighty percent of the fee for a delinquency period more than one year, to and including two years. (5) One hundred sixty percent for a delinquency period more than two years. (e) A single penalty assessment for the delinquent payment of the fees specified in Sections 9250.8 and 9250.13 shall be as follows: (1) Ten dollars ($10) for a delinquency period of 10 days or less. (2) Fifteen dollars ($15) for a delinquency period of more than 10 days, to and including 30 days. (3) Thirty dollars ($30) for a delinquency period of more than 30 days, to and including one year. (4) Fifty dollars ($50) for a delinquency period of more than one year, to and including two years. (5) One hundred dollars ($100) for a delinquency period of more than two years. (6) This subdivision applies to the renewal of registration for vehicles with expiration dates on or after December 1, 2008. (Amended by Stats. 2011, Ch. 21, Sec. 6. (SB 94) Effective May 4, 2011.)
  5. 9554.1.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    A penalty calculated under the cited provisions must be reduced by any offset under Revenue and Taxation Code Section 10754, or part of that offset.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9554.1. The amount of any penalty calculated pursuant to Section 9554 or subdivision (b) of Section 18116 of the Health and Safety Code shall be reduced by the amount of any offset implemented pursuant to Section 10754 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, or any portion of the amount of that offset. (Added by Stats. 1998, Ch. 322, Sec. 105. Effective August 20, 1998.)
  6. 9554.2.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a commercial motor vehicle is operated at a higher gross vehicle weight than was reported and registered, a new registration application must be filed and the higher fee and any code penalties must be paid to the department.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9554.2. Upon the operation of a commercial motor vehicle at a greater gross vehicle weight than had been reported to and registered by the department, a new registration application shall be made to the department. The greater declared gross vehicle weight fee as required in Section 9400.1 and any penalties defined in this code shall be paid to the department. (Added by Stats. 2000, Ch. 861, Sec. 54. Effective September 29, 2000. Operative December 31, 2001, pursuant to Sec. 67 of Ch. 861.)
  7. 9554.5.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section adds penalties for late vehicle registration and for delinquent payment of specified registration, weight, and vehicle license fees.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9554.5. (a) On and after January 1, 2003, a penalty shall be added on any application for original registration made later than midnight of the date of expiration or on or after the date penalties become due. Penalties shall be computed as provided in Section 9559 and shall be collected with the fee. (b) The penalty assessment for the delinquent payment of the registration fee specified in Section 9250 shall be as follows: (1) Thirty dollars ($30) for a delinquency period of one year or less. (2) Fifty dollars ($50) for a delinquency period of more than one year, to and including two years. (3) One hundred dollars ($100) for a delinquency period of more than two years. (c) The penalty assessment for the delinquent payment of the weight fee specified in Section 9400 or 9400.1 and the vehicle license fee as specified in Section 10751 of the Revenue and Taxation Code shall be as follows: (1) Forty percent of the vehicle license fee, or the combined amount of the vehicle license fee and the weight fee if the vehicle is subject to both fees, for a delinquency period of one year or less. (2) Eighty percent of the vehicle license fee, or the combined amount of the vehicle license fee and the weight fee if the vehicle is subject to both fees, for a delinquency period of more than one year, to and including two years. (3) One hundred sixty percent of the vehicle license fee, or the combined amount of the vehicle license fee and the weight fee if the vehicle is subject to both fees, for a delinquency period of more than two years. (d) A single penalty assessment for the delinquent payment of the fees specified in Sections 9250.8 and 9250.13 shall be as follows: (1) Thirty dollars ($30) for a delinquency period of one year or less. (2) Fifty dollars ($50) for a delinquency period of more than one year, to and including two years. (3) One hundred dollars ($100) for a delinquency period of more than two years. (4) This subdivision shall apply to applications for an original registration where the date the fee is due is on or after December 1, 2008. (e) This section shall become operative January 1, 2009. (Repealed (in Sec. 24) and added by Stats. 2008, Ch. 756, Sec. 25. Effective September 30, 2008. Section operative January 1, 2009, by its own provisions.)
  8. 9555.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a trailer coach is in the state and the registration fee has not first been paid as required, the fee is delinquent.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9555. Whenever any trailer coach is in this State without the registration fee having first been paid as required by this code, the fee is delinquent. (Enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3.)
  9. 9556.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    If an authorized person or organization receives a renewal registration application with the proper fee and completes the receipt/validation before midnight on expiration day, the application and fee are not delinquent or subject to penalty. That person or organization must then send the application and fees to the department as soon as practicable.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9556. Whenever any person or organization authorized by the department under Section 4610 receives an application for renewal of registration accompanied by the proper fee and endorses a receipt or validates a registration card or potential registration card in respect to the application for renewal of registration prior to midnight on the date registration expires in any year, the application and payment of fees shall not be deemed delinquent or subject to penalty, except that the person or organization so receiving the application and fees shall transmit the application and fees to the department as promptly as practicable in the immediate course of business. This section shall become operative on March 8, 1976, unless a later enacted statute, which is chaptered before March 8, 1976, deletes or extends such date. (Repealed and added by Stats. 1974, Ch. 1330, Sec. 26.)
  10. 9557.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    No penalty may be imposed for a delinquent vehicle-code fee if the payment instrument was mailed before the fee became delinquent under the stated mailing conditions.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9557. (a) No penalty shall be imposed for delinquent payment of any fee required to be paid under this code in the event any instrument for effective payment of such fee is placed in the United States mail or in any postal box maintained by the United States Postal Service with sufficient identification in an envelope with postage thereon prepaid and addressed to the Department of Motor Vehicles at Sacramento, or to one of the regularly established branch offices of the department or to any person or organization authorized by the department under Section 4610, prior to the date or time the fee becomes delinquent. (b) Any person so mailing an instrument for payment of any fee may file with the department a certificate in writing showing compliance with the provisions of this section. The certificate shall be accepted by the department as prima facie evidence of such mailing. (Amended by Stats. 1975, Ch. 389.)
  11. 9558.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a check used to pay a fee or penalty is dishonored on first presentation, the payer still owes the amount. The department may redeposit the check once without adding extra penalties.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9558. If a check in payment of a fee or penalty is not paid by the bank on which it is drawn on its first presentation, the person tendering the check remains liable for the payment of the fee, or fee and penalty, as if he had not tendered the check. The department in its discretion may redeposit a check in payment of the fee, or the fee and penalty, not more than once without assessing additional penalties. (Amended by Stats. 1969, Ch. 214.)
  12. 9559.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    When calculating registration or weight fees or penalties, fractions of a dollar are ignored unless they are 50 cents or more, in which case they round up to a full dollar.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9559. In computing any registration or weight fee or penalty imposed by this code, whether on a proration or otherwise, a fraction of a dollar is disregarded, unless it equals or exceeds fifty cents ($0.50), in which case it is treated as one full dollar ($1). Computation of any penalty shall be made from the fee after the same has been computed as provided in this section. Any fee or penalty in an amount of forty-nine cents ($0.49) or less shall be deemed to be one dollar ($1). (Amended by Stats. 1992, Ch. 1241, Sec. 14. Effective January 1, 1993.)
  13. 9559.5.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    If the director assigns or reassigns a renewal registration date so the registration year is under or over 12 months, the renewal fee is adjusted up or down.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9559.5. When, by reason of the assignment or reassignment of a renewal registration date by the director, the registration year is less than, or more than, 12 months, the fee due for that renewal shall be decreased or increased by one-twelfth of the annual fee for each month of the period less than, or in excess of, 12 months. (Added by Stats. 2006, Ch. 169, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 2007.)
  14. 9560.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    The department must waive late-payment penalties on vehicle registration renewal fees when the registered owner is deployed outside the state, subject to defined deployment rules and a 60-day limit after deployment ends.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9560. (a) The department shall waive all penalties that may be due for late payment of registration renewal fees on a vehicle for any period during which the registered owner is deployed to a location outside of the state. (b) (1) For the purposes of this section, “deployed” means being ordered to temporary military duty during a period when a Presidential Executive order specifies that the United States is engaged in combat or homeland defense and the registered owner is one of the following: (A) A member of the armed forces. (B) A member of the armed forces reserve or the National Guard who has been called to active duty or active service. (2) “Deployed” does not include either of the following: (A) Temporary duty for the sole purpose of training or processing. (B) A permanent change of station. (c) This section does not apply to a registered owner who applies for registration renewal more than 60 days after termination of his or her deployment. (Added by Stats. 2004, Ch. 188, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 2005.)
  15. 9561.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    The department must waive renewal penalties in two repossession situations if the related renewal fees are paid within 60 days.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9561. (a) When a legal owner or his or her agent repossesses a vehicle on which renewal fees are due, the department shall waive any renewal penalties that are due for late payment if the fees are paid within 60 days of taking possession. (b) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this code, when a repossessed vehicle is sold through a dealer conducting a wholesale motor vehicle auction as provided in subdivision (b) of Section 4456 and Article 5 (commencing with Section 6100) of Chapter 2 of Division 3, any penalties that may be due are waived, if all renewal fees that are due are paid not later than 60 days after the date of sale at the auction. (Amended by Stats. 1994, Ch. 180, Sec. 10. Effective July 11, 1994.)
  16. 9561.5.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    The department must waive late-payment penalties for vehicle registration renewal fees if the listed conditions are met.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9561.5. The department shall waive any penalties that may be due for late payment of registration renewal fees on a vehicle if all of the following criteria are met: (a) The vehicle is sold through a dealer conducting a wholesale motor vehicle auction as provided in subdivision (b) of Section 4456 and Article 5 (commencing with Section 6100) of Chapter 2 of Division 3. (b) Immediately prior to the sale the vehicle was registered as a leased vehicle. (c) Delivery of the vehicle to the dealer conducting the wholesale motor vehicle auction was not later than 25 days after the termination of the lease. (d) The date of termination of the lease and the date of delivery to the auction is reported on the application for registration, or application for transfer and registration, in a format that is acceptable to the department. (Added by Stats. 1997, Ch. 311, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 1998.)
  17. 9562.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    The department may waive certain vehicle registration penalties or fees for a transferee or purchaser if specified conditions are met, and the director may investigate and waive penalties at discretion.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9562. (a) When a transferee or purchaser of a vehicle applies for transfer of registration, as provided in Section 5902, and it is determined by the department that registration penalties accrued prior to the purchase of the vehicle, and that the transferee or purchaser was not cognizant of the nonpayment of the fees for registration for the current or prior registration years, the department may waive the registration penalties upon payment of the fees for registration due. (b) Other provisions of this code notwithstanding, the director may, at his or her discretion, investigate into the circumstances of any application for registration to ascertain if penalties had accrued through no fault or intent of the owner. If the director determines that the circumstances justify it, he or she may waive any penalties upon payment of the fees for registration then due. (c) When a transferee or purchaser of a vehicle applies for transfer of registration of a vehicle, and it is determined by the department that fees for registration of the vehicle for any year are unpaid and due, that the fees became due prior to the transfer or purchase of the vehicle by the transferee or purchaser and that the transferee or purchaser was not cognizant of the fact that the fees were unpaid and due, the department may waive the fees and any penalty thereon if the license plate assigned to the vehicle displays a validating device issued by the department and the validating device contains the year number of the registration year for which the transferee or purchaser is requesting a waiver of fees and penalties. (d) Upon the transfer of a vehicle for which fees for registration and any penalties thereon are unpaid and due, the fees and penalties are, notwithstanding the provisions of Article 6 (commencing with Section 9800) of this chapter, the personal debt of the transferor of the vehicle who did not pay the fees and penalties when they became due or accrued. The fees and penalties may be collected by the department in an appropriate civil action if the department has waived the fees and penalties pursuant to subdivision (c). (Amended by Stats. 1993, Ch. 223, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 1994.)
  18. 9563.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a vehicle is rebuilt and returned to operation after being reported dismantled under Section 11520, the fee application is treated as an original registration for a new vehicle.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9563. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this code, when a vehicle is rebuilt and restored to operation after it has been reported to be dismantled pursuant to Section 11520, the application shall be deemed to be an application for original registration of a new vehicle for determination of fees. (Amended by Stats. 1973, Ch. 889.)
  19. 9564.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    A scrap metal processor that acquires a qualifying vehicle may avoid nonoperation paperwork and related fees if it follows this section, but must send the required documentation to the department before reducing the vehicle to component materials.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Payment of Fees [9550 - 9564] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## 9564. (a) A scrap metal processor, as described in paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) of Section 221, who acquires a vehicle of a type subject to registration under this code, and who complies with all the provisions of this section, is not required to submit a certificate of nonoperation in lieu of fees or to pay fees that would otherwise be required if the vehicle were to be currently registered. (b) A scrap metal processor who acquires a vehicle as provided in subdivision (a) shall submit either of the following to the department before reducing the vehicle to its component materials: (1) Documentation that the vehicle was acquired pursuant to Section 22669 and disposed of in compliance with Article 2 (commencing with Section 22850) of Chapter 10 of Division 11. (2) The properly endorsed certificate of title transferring title to the scrap iron processor and any available license plates or registration documents. (c) A vehicle delivered to a scrap metal processor under subdivision (a) shall not be reconstructed or made operable, unless it is a vehicle which qualifies for either horseless carriage license plates or historical vehicle license plates pursuant to Section 5004, in which case the vehicle may be reconstructed or made operable. (Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 316, Sec. 2. Effective January 1, 2000.)
  20. 9700.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Partial Year Payment of Weight Fees [9700 - 9711] ( Article 5 repealed and added by Stats. 1981, Ch. 636, Sec. 8. )

    Verify source ↗

    For vehicles subject to additional registration fees, a proportionate share of those fees may be paid for a partial registration period of at least one month and less than 12 months.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Partial Year Payment of Weight Fees [9700 - 9711] ( Article 5 repealed and added by Stats. 1981, Ch. 636, Sec. 8. ) ## 9700. With respect to vehicles subject to additional registration fees under Section 9400 or 9400.1, a proportionate share of the additional fees may be paid for any partial period of one month or more, but less than 12 months, in an amount determined to be one-twelfth of the annual registration times the consecutive months, or fraction thereof, of the period of registration. (Amended by Stats. 2001, Ch. 826, Sec. 30. Effective January 1, 2002.)
  21. 9702.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Partial Year Payment of Weight Fees [9700 - 9711] ( Article 5 repealed and added by Stats. 1981, Ch. 636, Sec. 8. )

    Verify source ↗

    An additional $15 fee must be charged for each application for partial year registration or its renewal when the person pays the fee under Section 9400 or 9400.1.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Partial Year Payment of Weight Fees [9700 - 9711] ( Article 5 repealed and added by Stats. 1981, Ch. 636, Sec. 8. ) ## 9702. An additional fee of fifteen dollars ($15) shall be charged for each application for partial year registration, or renewal thereof, whenever a person pays the fee under Section 9400 or 9400.1, as provided in Section 9700. (Amended by Stats. 2003, Ch. 719, Sec. 19. Effective January 1, 2004.)
  22. 9704.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Partial Year Payment of Weight Fees [9700 - 9711] ( Article 5 repealed and added by Stats. 1981, Ch. 636, Sec. 8. )

    Verify source ↗

    Partial-year vehicle registrations and related certificates or insignia expire at midnight on the last day of the period they were issued for. The department may renew the vehicle registration if proper fees are paid.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Partial Year Payment of Weight Fees [9700 - 9711] ( Article 5 repealed and added by Stats. 1981, Ch. 636, Sec. 8. ) ## 9704. Every partial year vehicle registration and every certificate or insignia issued under this article shall expire at midnight on the last day of the period for which issued. The department may, upon payment of the proper fees, renew the registration of the vehicle for a period of months less than the remainder of the registration year or for the remainder of the registration year. (Added by Stats. 1981, Ch. 636, Sec. 8.)
  23. 9706.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Partial Year Payment of Weight Fees [9700 - 9711] ( Article 5 repealed and added by Stats. 1981, Ch. 636, Sec. 8. )

    Verify source ↗

    Owners must apply for partial-year vehicle registration within set deadlines, renew on time, and file nonoperation or annual certification when required.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Partial Year Payment of Weight Fees [9700 - 9711] ( Article 5 repealed and added by Stats. 1981, Ch. 636, Sec. 8. ) ## 9706. (a) Application for partial year registration in conjunction with an application for original California registration shall be made by the owner within 20 days of the date the vehicle first becomes subject to California registration. Any application for partial year registration submitted after that 20-day period shall be denied registration for a partial year, and the vehicle shall be subject to payment of the fees for the entire registration year. In addition to the fee for the registration year, a penalty, as specified in Section 9554, shall be added to the fee for registration. (b) Any application to renew registration for a part of the remainder of the registration year or for the entire remainder of the registration year shall be made prior to midnight of the expiration date of the last issued registration certificate. Application shall be made upon presentation of the last issued registration card or of a potential registration issued by the department for use at the time of renewal and by payment of the required partial year fees, or, if renewal is for the remainder of the registration year, by payment of the annual fee required by Section 9400 or 9400.1, as reduced pursuant to Section 9407. (c) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, an owner who registers a vehicle pursuant to this article during a calendar year shall, if the vehicle was not operated, moved, or left standing upon a highway, file a certificate of nonoperation prior to the date of the first operation of the vehicle on the highways in a manner which requires that registration and shall, by December 31 of each calendar year thereafter, file a certification pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 4604 when the vehicle is not registered for operation on the highways for the succeeding calendar year. (d) Notwithstanding subdivision (c), the owner of any vehicle being moved or operated for the purpose of providing support to firefighting operations while the vehicle or owner is under contract to the United States Forestry Service, the United States Department of the Interior, the Bureau of Land Management, the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or the Office of Emergency Services may obtain partial year registration if application is made within 20 days of the date the vehicle is first operated, moved, or left standing on the highway and the owner has obtained a letter of authorization from the department prior to the date that the vehicle is first operated, moved, or left standing on the highway. (Amended by Stats. 2013, Ch. 352, Sec. 524. (AB 1317) Effective September 26, 2013. Operative July 1, 2013, by Sec. 543 of Ch. 352.)
  24. 9706.1.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Partial Year Payment of Weight Fees [9700 - 9711] ( Article 5 repealed and added by Stats. 1981, Ch. 636, Sec. 8. )

    Verify source ↗

    If the registration card or potential registration card is unavailable, the duplicate-registration fee under Section 9265 does not have to be paid in addition to the other fees under Section 9706(b).

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Partial Year Payment of Weight Fees [9700 - 9711] ( Article 5 repealed and added by Stats. 1981, Ch. 636, Sec. 8. ) ## 9706.1. If the registration card or potential registration card is unavailable, payment of the fee prescribed by Section 9265 for the issuance of a duplicate registration shall not be required in addition to the other fees prescribed by subdivision (b) of Section 9706. (Added by Stats. 1991, Ch. 13, Sec. 22. Effective February 13, 1991.)
  25. 9710.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Partial Year Payment of Weight Fees [9700 - 9711] ( Article 5 repealed and added by Stats. 1981, Ch. 636, Sec. 8. )

    Verify source ↗

    A vehicle may be operated on the highways after a renewal application is made, while waiting for the new registration certificate or insignia, if the required prior-year and partial-year display items are on the vehicle.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Partial Year Payment of Weight Fees [9700 - 9711] ( Article 5 repealed and added by Stats. 1981, Ch. 636, Sec. 8. ) ## 9710. When an application for renewal of registration of a vehicle has been made as required by Section 9706, the vehicle may be operated on the highways until the new certificate or insignia of current registration has been received from the department if there is displayed on the vehicle, in addition to the license plates or validating devices issued to the vehicle for the previous year, the certificate or insignia issued to the vehicle for the previous partial year. (Amended by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1352, Sec. 13. Effective September 27, 1990. Applicable from July 1, 1990, pursuant to Sec. 21 of Ch. 1352.)
  26. 9711.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Partial Year Payment of Weight Fees [9700 - 9711] ( Article 5 repealed and added by Stats. 1981, Ch. 636, Sec. 8. )

    Verify source ↗

    The article does not apply to owners or lessors of commercial vehicles based in a foreign jurisdiction that does not give residents of this state reciprocity or proportionate registration there.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Partial Year Payment of Weight Fees [9700 - 9711] ( Article 5 repealed and added by Stats. 1981, Ch. 636, Sec. 8. ) ## 9711. This article does not apply to any owner or lessor of a commercial vehicle based in a foreign jurisdiction which does not grant reciprocity or proportionate registration to residents of this state while operating within that jurisdiction. (Added by Stats. 1988, Ch. 907, Sec. 2.)
  27. 9800.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Enforcement of Liens [9800 - 9808] ( Article 6 repealed and added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 664, Sec. 8. )

    Verify source ↗

    Certain vehicle-related fees and penalties can become liens on the vehicle, with special rules for foreign registered trailers and for perfecting and expiring liens.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Enforcement of Liens [9800 - 9808] ( Article 6 repealed and added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 664, Sec. 8. ) ## 9800. (a) Payments for any of the following, and any interest, penalties, or service fees added thereto, required to register or transfer the registration of a vehicle, constitute a lien on the vehicle on which they are due or which was involved in the offense, and on any other vehicle owned by the owner of that vehicle: (1) Registration fees. (2) Transfer fees. (3) License fees. (4) Use taxes. (5) Penalties for offenses relating to the standing or parking of a vehicle for which a notice of parking violation has been served on the owner, and any administrative service fee added to the penalty. (6) Any court-imposed fine or penalty assessment, and any administrative service fee added thereto, which is subject to collection by the department. (b) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), if a person is cited for a foreign registered auxiliary dolly, semitrailer, or trailer having been operated without current year registration or valid California permits or registration, an amount equal to the minimum registration fees or transfer fees, and any penalty added thereto, from the date they became due, shall, by election of the power unit operator, constitute a lien upon the California registered power unit which was pulling the dolly, semitrailer, or trailer. However, this subdivision is not applicable if the citation is issued at a scale operated by the Department of the California Highway Patrol and registration for the vehicle can be issued there immediately upon payment of the fees due. (c) Every lien arising under this section expires three years from the date the fee, tax, or parking penalty first became due unless the lien is perfected pursuant to subdivision (d). (d) A lien is perfected when a notice is mailed to the registered and legal owners at the addresses shown in the department’s records and the lien is recorded on the electronic vehicle registration records of the department. A perfected lien shall expire five years from the date of perfection. (e) Employees and members of the Department of the California Highway Patrol assigned to commercial vehicle scale facilities may possess and sell trip permits approved by the Department of Motor Vehicles. (Amended by Stats. 1992, Ch. 1199, Sec. 10. Effective September 30, 1992.)
  28. 9801.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Enforcement of Liens [9800 - 9808] ( Article 6 repealed and added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 664, Sec. 8. )

    Verify source ↗

    If vehicle registration or transfer fees are delinquent, the department may collect the lien amount and costs, and may seize and sell the vehicle after notice rules are followed.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Enforcement of Liens [9800 - 9808] ( Article 6 repealed and added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 664, Sec. 8. ) ## 9801. (a) (1) When the payment required for the registration or transfer of a vehicle is delinquent pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 9800, the department may collect the amount of the lien on the vehicle plus costs, not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars ($250), by the filing of a certificate requesting judgment pursuant to Section 9805, or by appropriate civil action and by the seizure and sale of the vehicle or any other vehicle owned by the owner of the unregistered vehicle. (2) In the case of a leased vehicle, the authority provided in paragraph (1) to seize and sell the vehicle or any other vehicle owned by the owner of that vehicle shall not apply to a lien for any delinquency for which only the lessee is liable pursuant to paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 10879 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. (b) At least 10 days before the seizure, notice of the lien and of the intent to seize and sell the vehicle shall be given by the department to the registered and legal owners, and to any other person known to be claiming an interest in the vehicle, by registered mail addressed to those persons at the last known addresses appearing on the records of the department. (c) Any person receiving the notice of the lien and the intent to seize and sell the vehicle may request a hearing to contest the existence or amount of the lien. If no hearing is requested, the vehicle shall be seized and sold. (d) If a hearing is requested, 10 days’ notice shall be given of the time and place of the hearing, which shall be held within the county of residence of the person requesting the hearing or of the registered owner. The hearing shall be conducted by a referee who shall submit findings and recommendations to the director or his or her authorized representative, who shall decide the matter. The decision shall be effective on notice thereof to the interested parties. However, the director or his or her authorized representative may rescind the decision and reconsider the matter for good cause shown at any time within three years after the date the disputed fee or tax first became due, or within one year from the hearing, whichever is later. (e) At any time before seizure or sale, any registered owner, legal owner, or person claiming an interest in the vehicle may pay the department the amount of the lien, plus costs. In that event, the seizure or sale shall not be held and the vehicle, if seized, shall be returned by the department to the person entitled to its possession. This payment shall not constitute a waiver of the right to a hearing. (f) When the department or an authorized agent has reasonable cause to believe that the lien may be jeopardized within the 10-day notice-of-intent period, the vehicle may be seized without prior notice to the registered or legal owner, upon obtaining authorization for the seizure from the Registrar of Vehicles or authorized representative. In all those cases, a notice of the lien and the intent to sell the vehicle shall be given by the department to the legal and registered owner, and to any other person known to be claiming an interest in the vehicle, within 48 hours after seizure excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays specified in Section 6700 of the Government Code. Any hearing to contest the lien and the seizure shall be requested within 10 days following transmittal of that notice. (g) When a lien exists against one or more vehicles owned by the same person or persons, the department may seize and sell a sufficient number of the vehicles to pay the lien, plus costs, on one or more of the vehicles in accordance with subdivision (a). (h) The Department of the California Highway Patrol shall assist with the seizure and impounding of the vehicle. Any municipality or county law enforcement agency may assist with the seizure and impounding of the vehicle. (i) Any property found by the department in any vehicle seized under the provisions of this article shall be handled by the department in the same manner as is provided in Sections 2414 and 2415. (Amended by Stats. 1994, Ch. 1211, Sec. 3. Effective September 30, 1994.)
  29. 9802.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Enforcement of Liens [9800 - 9808] ( Article 6 repealed and added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 664, Sec. 8. )

    Verify source ↗

    The Registrar of Vehicles or an authorized representative must conduct the sale in the legally required manner, and the department must distribute sale proceeds in the stated order and send collected use taxes, interest, and penalties to the State Board of Equalization within 60 days after receipt.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Enforcement of Liens [9800 - 9808] ( Article 6 repealed and added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 664, Sec. 8. ) ## 9802. (a) The Registrar of Vehicles or authorized representative shall conduct the sale in the same manner as provided by law for the seizure and sale of personal property by the assessor for the collection of taxes due on personal property. (b) The department may bid for the vehicle an amount equal to the lien held by the department for registration, transfer, and license fees, use taxes, parking penalties, and any interest, penalties, and costs added thereto. In all cases where the vehicle becomes the property of the department, it shall be reduced to junk and sold. (c) The proceeds of any sale shall be allocated by the department for the following purposes and in the following order: (1) Costs incurred by the department. (2) Registration and transfer fees and any penalty added thereto. (3) License fees and any penalty added thereto. (4) Use taxes and any interest or penalty added thereto. (5) Perfected mechanics’ liens. (6) Perfected security interests. (7) Penalties for offenses relating to the standing or parking of a vehicle and any administrative service fee added thereto. Any other court-induced liability, and any administrative service fee added thereto, which is subject to collection by the department. (8) All other fees due the department. (9) Any remainder to the person whose claim of interest in the vehicle is approved by the department. (d) Notwithstanding Section 42270, the proceeds of a sale allocated pursuant to paragraphs (4) to (9), inclusive, of subdivision (c) shall not be transmitted to the Treasurer for deposit in the Motor Vehicle Account in the State Transportation Fund. (e) The department shall transmit to the State Board of Equalization all use taxes, interest, and penalties collected under this article within 60 days after receipt thereof in the form which may be prescribed and approved jointly by the department and the board. (Amended by Stats. 1992, Ch. 1199, Sec. 11.5. Effective September 30, 1992.)
  30. 9803.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Enforcement of Liens [9800 - 9808] ( Article 6 repealed and added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 664, Sec. 8. )

    Verify source ↗

    A court of competent jurisdiction may review or take other action on a department order to seize and sell a vehicle, as allowed by the state Constitution and laws.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Enforcement of Liens [9800 - 9808] ( Article 6 repealed and added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 664, Sec. 8. ) ## 9803. Nothing in this code prevents a review or other action as may be permitted by the Constitution and laws of this state by a court of competent jurisdiction of any order of the department to seize and sell a vehicle. (Added by Stats. 1986, Ch. 1212, Sec. 2.)
  31. 9804.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Enforcement of Liens [9800 - 9808] ( Article 6 repealed and added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 664, Sec. 8. )

    Verify source ↗

    A court review action for a department order to seize and sell a vehicle must be started within 90 days after notice of the order. After all administrative appeals end, the department must give the vehicle owner written notice of the right to court review.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Enforcement of Liens [9800 - 9808] ( Article 6 repealed and added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 664, Sec. 8. ) ## 9804. (a) Any action brought in a court of competent jurisdiction to review any order of the department to seize and sell a vehicle shall be commenced within 90 days from the date notice is given of the order. (b) Upon final completion of all administrative appeals, the department shall give written notice to the owner of a vehicle ordered for seizure and sale of his or her right to a review of the order by a court pursuant to subdivision (a). (Added by Stats. 1986, Ch. 1212, Sec. 3.)
  32. 9805.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Enforcement of Liens [9800 - 9808] ( Article 6 repealed and added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 664, Sec. 8. )

    Verify source ↗

    The department may file a certificate to collect certain unpaid vehicle-related amounts, but it must first mail notice and, if requested, hold a hearing.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Enforcement of Liens [9800 - 9808] ( Article 6 repealed and added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 664, Sec. 8. ) ## 9805. (a) The department may file in the office of the Clerk of the Superior Court of Sacramento County, or any other county, a certificate specifying the amount of any fee, tax, penalty, and collection cost due, the name and last known address of the individual, company, or corporation liable for the amount due, and the fact that the department has complied with all the provisions of this division in the computation of the amount due, and a request that judgment be entered against the individual, company, or corporation in the amount of the fee, tax, penalty, and collection cost set forth in the certificate if the fee, tax, penalty, or collection cost constitutes either of the following: (1) A lien under this division on the vehicle on which it is due is not paid when due, and there is evidence that the vehicle has been operated in violation of this code or any regulations adopted pursuant to this code. (2) A lessee liability as provided in Section 10879 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. (b) Prior to the filing of the certificate, the department shall, by mail, notify the individual, company, or corporation of the amount which is due and of the opportunity for a hearing as provided in this subdivision. At the request of the individual, company, or corporation, the department shall conduct a hearing pursuant to Section 9801, at which it shall be determined whether the claimed fee, tax, penalty, or collection cost in the amount claimed by the department is due and constitutes a lien on the vehicle, and whether the individual, company, or corporation is liable therefor. (c) If no hearing is requested within 15 days after mailing the notice required by subdivision (b), the certificate required by subdivision (b) may be filed. (Amended by Stats. 2002, Ch. 784, Sec. 593. Effective January 1, 2003.)
  33. 9806.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Enforcement of Liens [9800 - 9808] ( Article 6 repealed and added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 664, Sec. 8. )

    Verify source ↗

    When the Section 9805 certificate is filed, the court clerk must enter judgment for the State of California for the amounts listed in the certificate. The clerk may also file the judgment in a designated looseleaf book.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Enforcement of Liens [9800 - 9808] ( Article 6 repealed and added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 664, Sec. 8. ) ## 9806. The clerk of the court, immediately upon the filing of the certificate specified in Section 9805, shall enter a judgment for the people of the State of California against the individual, company, or corporation in the amount of any fee, tax, penalty, and collection cost set forth in the certificate. The clerk may file the judgment in a looseleaf book entitled “Department of Motor Vehicles Registration Judgments.” (Amended by Stats. 2002, Ch. 784, Sec. 594. Effective January 1, 2003.)
  34. 9808.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Enforcement of Liens [9800 - 9808] ( Article 6 repealed and added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 664, Sec. 8. )

    Verify source ↗

    Execution must issue on the Section 9806 judgment when the department requests it, sales must be conducted under that execution, and attachment may not issue against real property.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3. REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES AND CERTIFICATES OF TITLE [4000 - 9808] ( Division 3 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## CHAPTER 6. Registration and Weight Fees [9101 - 9808] ( Chapter 6 enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Enforcement of Liens [9800 - 9808] ( Article 6 repealed and added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 664, Sec. 8. ) ## 9808. Execution shall issue upon the judgment specified in Section 9806 upon request of the department in the same manner as execution may issue upon other judgments, and sales shall be held under the execution as prescribed in the Code of Civil Procedure, except that attachment may not issue against any real property. (Added by Stats. 1990, Ch. 676, Sec. 4.)
  35. 9840.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 1. General Provisions and Definitions [9840 - 9845] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section defines key terms used in the vessel registration and transfer division.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 1. General Provisions and Definitions [9840 - 9845] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9840. As used in this division, unless the context clearly requires a different meaning: (a) “Vessel” includes every description of watercraft used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water, except the following: (1) A seaplane on the water. (2) A watercraft specifically designed to operate on a permanently fixed course, the movement of which is restricted to or guided on such permanently fixed course by means of a mechanical device on a fixed track or arm to which the watercraft is attached or by which the watercraft is controlled, or by means of a mechanical device attached to the watercraft itself. (3) A floating structure which is designed and built to be used as a stationary waterborne residential dwelling, which (A) does not have and is not designed to have a mode of power of its own, (B) is dependent for utilities upon a continuous utility linkage to a source originating on shore, and (C) has a permanent, continuous hookup to a shoreside sewage system. (b) “Owner” is a person having all the incidents of ownership, including the legal title, of a vessel whether or not such person lends, rents, or pledges such vessel; the person entitled to the possession of a vessel as the purchaser under a conditional sale contract; or the mortgagor of a vessel. “Owner” does not include a person holding legal title to a vessel under a conditional sales contract, the mortgagee of a vessel, or the renter or lessor of a vessel to the state or to any county, city, district, or political subdivision of the state under a lease, lease-sale, or rental-purchase agreement which grants possession of the vessel to the lessee for a period of 30 consecutive days or more. (c) “Legal owner” is a person holding the legal title to a vessel under a conditional sale contract, the mortgagee of a vessel, or the renter or lessor of a vessel to the state, or to any county, city, district or political subdivision of the state, under a lease, lease-sale, or rental-purchase agreement which grants possession of the vessel to the lessee for a period of 30 consecutive days or more. (d) “Registered owner” is the person registered by the department as the owner of the vessel. (e) “Waters of this state” means any waters within the territorial limits of this state. (f) “State of principal use” means the state on which waters a vessel is used or intended to be used most during a calendar year. (g) “Undocumented vessel” means any vessel which is not required to have and does not have a valid marine document issued by the Bureau of Customs of the United States or any federal agency successor thereto. (h) “Use” means operate, navigate, or employ. (Amended by Stats. 1984, Ch. 411, Sec. 1.)
  36. 9845.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 1. General Provisions and Definitions [9840 - 9845] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    Certain officials and peace officers may inspect specified vessel identification and ownership documents in listed locations for vessel ownership, registration, or stolen-vessel investigations.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 1. General Provisions and Definitions [9840 - 9845] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9845. The director, deputy director, registrar, deputy registrar, investigators of the department, and peace officers, as defined in Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 830) of the Penal Code, may inspect the hull identification number, certificate of number, and certificate of ownership of any vessel, as defined in Section 9840, when transported on a highway, or in any public garage, repair shop, public or private marina, dry storage facility, new or used vessel sales lot or boat yard, or other similar establishment for the purpose of investigating the ownership and registration of vessels, locating stolen vessels, and for inspection of wrecked, dismantled, or abandoned vessels. The authority to inspect pursuant to this section does not extend to any enclosed living area aboard a vessel. (Added by Stats. 1987, Ch. 298, Sec. 1.)
  37. 9850.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    Undocumented vessels on the state’s waters must be currently numbered, and they may not be operated or authorized for operation unless numbering and certificate/display requirements are met.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9850. Every undocumented vessel using the waters or on the waters of this state shall be currently numbered. No person shall operate nor shall any county, city, or political subdivision give permission for the operation of any undocumented vessel on those waters unless the undocumented vessel is numbered in accordance with this chapter, or in accordance with applicable federal law, or in accordance with a federally approved numbering system of another state, and unless (1) the certificate of number issued to such undocumented vessel is in full force and effect, and (2) the identifying number set forth in the certificate of number is displayed on each side of the bow of the undocumented vessel for which the identifying number was issued. (Amended by Stats. 1987, Ch. 298, Sec. 2.)
  38. 9851.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    The department may make rules for registering certain undocumented vessels without the usual fees, except for specified duplicate or sticker fees. Vessels owned by the Department of Boating and Waterways are exempt from fees in this division.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9851. The department may adopt rules and regulations for the registration of undocumented vessels belonging to the state, local public agencies, or to the United States without payment of fees specified in this code, except fees for duplicate certificates of ownership, duplicate certificates of number, or substitute current year registration stickers. Any vessel owned by the Department of Boating and Waterways is exempt from any fees specified in this division. (Amended by Stats. 1990, Ch. 951, Sec. 1. Operative July 1, 1991, by Sec. 5 of Ch. 951.)
  39. 9852.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    The department must set rules on proof of ownership for initial vessel registration filings.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9852. The department shall promulgate rules and regulations setting forth requirements relative to establishing proof of ownership to be submitted by the owner at the time of filing initial application for a certificate of number and a certificate of ownership. The issuance of a certificate of ownership or certificate of number under this chapter shall not in any way be construed that the department is warranting or guaranteeing the title of the vessel as it appears on such certificates. (Amended by Stats. 1973, Ch. 759.)
  40. 9852.5.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section lets two or more people register an undocumented vessel as coowners and sets how title transfers are handled based on whether they use “or” or “and.”

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9852.5. Ownership of an undocumented vessel subject to registration may be held by two or more coowners as follows: (a) A vessel may be registered in the names of two or more persons as coowners in the alternative by the use of the word “or.” A vessel so registered in the alternative shall be deemed to be held in joint tenancy. Each coowner shall be deemed to have granted to the other coowners the absolute right to dispose of the title and interest in the vessel. Upon the death of a coowner the interest of the decedent shall pass to the survivor as though title or interest in the vessel was held in joint tenancy unless a contrary intention is set forth in writing upon the application for registration. (b) A vessel may be registered in the names of two or more persons as coowners in the alternative by the use of the word “or” and if declared in writing upon the application for registration by the applicants to be community property, or tenancy in common, shall grant to each coowner the absolute power to transfer the title or interest of the other coowners only during the lifetime of such coowners. (c) A vessel may be registered in the names of two or more persons as coowners in the conjunctive by the use of the word “and” and shall thereafter require the signature of each coowner or his personal representative to transfer title to the vessel, except where title to the vessel is set forth in joint tenancy, the signature of each coowner or his or her personal representative shall be required only during the lifetime of the coowners, and upon death of a coowner title shall pass to the surviving coowner. (d) The department may adopt suitable abbreviations to appear upon the certificate of ownership and certificate of number to designate the manner in which title to the vessel is held if set forth by the coowners upon the application for registration. (Added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 982, Sec. 25.)
  41. 9852.7.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    A vessel’s ownership may be set up in beneficiary form to transfer to one named beneficiary when the owner dies, and the registration fee is $10.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9852.7. (a) Ownership of an undocumented vessel subject to registration may be held in beneficiary form that includes a direction to transfer ownership of the vessel to a designated beneficiary on death of the owner if both of the following requirements are satisfied: (1) Only one owner is designated. (2) Only one TOD beneficiary is designated. (b) Ownership registration and title issued in beneficiary form shall include, after the name of the owner, the words “transfer on death to” or the abbreviation “TOD” followed by the name of the beneficiary. (c) During the lifetime of the owner, the signature or consent of the beneficiary is not required for any transaction relating to the vessel for which a certificate of ownership in beneficiary form has been issued. (d) The fee for registering ownership of a vessel in a beneficiary form is ten dollars ($10). (Added by Stats. 1991, Ch. 1055, Sec. 61. Operative January 1, 1993, by Sec. 64 of Ch. 1055.)
  42. 9852.9.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    The department must add specific certification and hang-tag lines to the initial vessel application form.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9852.9. (a) On and after July 1, 2008, the form for an initial application for a number prepared by the department pursuant to Section 9853 shall include both of the following: (1) Checkoff boxes or line alternatives for the retail seller of an undocumented vessel to certify that a sterndrive or inboard vessel that contains a spark-ignition marine engine below 373 kW (500 hp) rated power output that was manufactured on or after January 1, 2008, and a sterndrive or inboard vessel that contains a spark-ignition marine engine with any rated power output that was manufactured on or after January 1, 2009, has a permanently affixed label indicating that the engine meets or exceeds the 2008 California emissions standards required by Section 2442 of Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations. (2) A line requiring that an initial application for a vessel described in paragraph (1) be accompanied by the hang tag required by Section 2443.3 of Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations for the engine described in paragraph (1). (b) As used in this section, “spark-ignition marine engine” has the same meaning as that term is defined in Section 9853.7. (Added by Stats. 2007, Ch. 609, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 2008. Operative July 1, 2008, by Sec. 4 of Ch. 609.)
  43. 9853.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    Owners of vessels that must be numbered by the state must file an initial application and pay required fees; the department also collects a mussel-prevention fee, issues a sticker after payment, and may cite operators who use certain vessels without a valid sticker.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9853. (a) The owner of each vessel requiring numbering by this state shall file an initial application for a number with the department or with an agent authorized by the department on forms approved by the department. The forms shall be prepared in cooperation with the Division of Boating and Waterways. The application shall contain the true name and address of the owner, the true name and address of the legal owner, if any, and the hull identification number of the vessel as may be required by the department. The application shall be signed by the owner of the vessel and shall be accompanied by a fee of nine dollars ($9), in addition to the fees required under subdivision (b). (b) (1) Whenever the fee for original registration of a vessel becomes due between January 1 and December 31 of any even-numbered year, the application shall be accompanied by a fee of ten dollars ($10), in addition to any other fees that are then due and payable. (2) Whenever the fee for original registration of a vessel becomes due, or is filed with the department, between January 1 and December 31 of any odd-numbered year, the application shall be accompanied by a fee of twenty dollars ($20) in addition to any other fees that are then due and payable. (c) (1) The department shall collect, from resident and nonresident vessel owners, separate from the original registration fee, an invasive mussel infestation prevention fee in an amount established by the Division of Boating and Waterways pursuant to Section 675 of the Harbors and Navigation Code. (2) Upon payment of the fee described in paragraph (1), the department shall issue a vessel an invasive mussel infestation prevention sticker to the vessel owner. (3) Failure to pay the invasive mussel infestation prevention fee described in paragraph (1) does not prohibit the department from issuing registration of a vessel. (4) (A) A vessel operator may be issued a citation for operating a recreational vessel in nonmarine waters without a valid state-issued invasive mussel infestation prevention sticker. (B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a vessel that is exempt pursuant to Section 5211 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations shall not be cited pursuant to subparagraph (A). (d) The department shall provide documentation of its administrative costs pursuant to this section to the Division of Boating and Waterways. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 106, Sec. 17. (AB 149) Effective September 17, 2025.)
  44. 9853.1.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    When the department receives an application in approved form, it must issue ownership and number certificates for the vessel as specified.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9853.1. Upon receipt of the application in approved form, the department shall issue a certificate of ownership to the legal owner and a certificate of number to the owner, or both to the owner if there is no legal owner, stating the number issued to the vessel and the name and address of the owner. (Added by Stats. 1973, Ch. 759.)
  45. 9853.2.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    Vessel owners must display the identification number on each side of the forward half of the vessel, keep it legible, and keep the certificate of number available for inspection when the vessel is in use, except for vessels subject to Section 9853.3.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9853.2. The owner shall paint on or attach to each side of the forward half of the vessel the identification number in such manner as may be prescribed by rules and regulations of the department in order that it may be clearly visible. Any such rules and regulations shall be developed in cooperation with the Department of Boating and Waterways. The number shall be maintained in a legible condition. The certificate of number shall be pocket size and shall be available at all times for inspection on the vessel for which issued, whenever the vessel is in use, except as to those vessels subject to Section 9853.3. (Amended by Stats. 1984, Ch. 144, Sec. 206.)
  46. 9853.3.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    For short-term, noncommercial rental or lease of a vessel under 26 feet, the owner or representative may keep the certificate of number on shore, and the renter or lessee must carry a signed copy of the lease or rental agreement aboard during use.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9853.3. The certificate of number for vessels less than 26 feet in length and leased or rented to another for the latter’s noncommercial use of less than 24 hours may be retained on shore by the vessel’s owner or his representative at the place from which the vessel departs or returns to the possession of the owner or his representative. A copy of the lease or rental agreement signed by the owner or his authorized representative and by the person leasing or renting the vessel shall be carried aboard the vessel at all times during use. (Added by Stats. 1973, Ch. 759.)
  47. 9853.4.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    The department may issue registration stickers, tabs, or similar devices for vessels, and those devices may only be displayed on the vessel they were issued for.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9853.4. (a) The department may issue one or more stickers, tabs, or other suitable devices to identify vessels as being currently registered. The size, shape, and color of the sticker, tab, or other device and the positioning of the sticker, tab, or other device on the vessel shall be as determined by the department after consultation with the Department of Boating and Waterways, such consultation to consider the responsibilities and duties of the Department of Boating and Waterways as prescribed in the Harbors and Navigation Code. (b) Whenever the department issues a sticker, tab, or other device pursuant to subdivision (a), the sticker, tab, or device shall only be displayed on the vessel for which it was issued. (Amended by Stats. 1987, Ch. 298, Sec. 3.)
  48. 9853.5.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    On request, the department must issue a special historical-interest plaque for qualifying wooden power-driven pleasure craft built before December 31, 1942.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9853.5. Upon request, the department shall issue for any power-driven pleasure craft which is constructed of wood and which was constructed prior to December 31, 1942, a special plaque which identifies the craft as a vessel of historical interest. The provisions of this section shall apply to documented as well as undocumented vessels. The size, shape, and content of such plaque and its positioning on the vessel shall be determined by the department after consultation with the Department of Boating and Waterways; provided, that such plaque shall be of a durable material and shall be no smaller than six inches in height and six inches in width. A reasonable fee, as determined by the department, sufficient to support the administration of such program, shall be charged for issuance of the plaque. The plaque shall be valid for the life of the vessel. (Added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 577, Sec. 1.)
  49. 9853.7.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    For certain qualifying undocumented vessels, the retail seller must certify the engine label and submit a hang tag with the initial application; if the seller does not file, the applicant must submit the hang tag; and the department may not number the vessel unless one of those conditions is met.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9853.7. (a) (1) When the retail seller of an undocumented sterndrive or inboard vessel, that contains a spark-ignition marine engine below 373 kW (500 hp) rated power output that was manufactured on or after January 1, 2008, or contains a spark-ignition marine engine with any rated power output that was manufactured on or after January 1, 2009, files for the purchaser of the vessel the initial application for a number for the vessel, the retail seller shall do both of the following: (A) Certify on that application, by marking in indelible ink the affirmative checkoff boxes or line alternatives described in subdivision (a) of Section 9852.9, that the spark-ignition marine engine has a permanently affixed label indicating that the engine meets or exceeds the 2008 California emissions standards required by Section 2442 of Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations. The retail seller shall make that certification only after examining the permanently affixed label for the engine and only if the label indicates compliance with Section 2442 of Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations. (B) Submit with the application, the hang tag required by Section 2443.3 of Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations for the engine, after including on the reserved white space of the hang tag, the engine family name, from the permanently affixed engine label, and the serial number of the engine. (2) If the retail seller does not file for the purchaser of a vessel described in paragraph (1) the initial application for a number for the vessel, the applicant, upon filing an initial application for a number, shall submit the hang tag required by Section 2443.3 of Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations for the engine. The hang tag shall contain the engine family name, from the permanently affixed engine label, and the serial number of the engine, as inserted by the retail seller of the vessel. (b) Subdivision (a) does not apply to a vessel originally purchased in another state by a resident of that state who subsequently establishes residence in this state and who provides satisfactory evidence to the department, or the department’s agent authorized pursuant to Section 9858, of the previous residence. (c) The department, and the department’s agent authorized pursuant to Section 9858, shall not number a vessel subject to subdivision (a), unless the retail seller certifies on the initial application for a number filed for the purchaser of the vessel that the spark-ignition marine engine has the label described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) permanently affixed to the engine, or the applicant submits an application that is accompanied by the hang tag required by subdivision (a). (d) For the purposes of this section, “spark-ignition marine engine” has the same meaning as that term is defined in paragraph (48) of subdivision (a) of Section 2441 of Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations. (Added by Stats. 2007, Ch. 609, Sec. 2. Effective January 1, 2008. Operative July 1, 2008, by Sec. 4 of Ch. 609.)
  50. 9853.8.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section limits when certain vessels are covered and makes it an infraction, punishable by a $250 fine, to operate an undocumented, state-numbered vessel that is not currently numbered and does not meet the required emissions standards.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9853.8. (a) This section applies only to a sterndrive or inboard vessel that contains a spark-ignition marine engine below 373 kW (500 hp) rated power output that was manufactured on or after January 1, 2008, or contains a spark-ignition marine engine with any rated power output that was manufactured on or after January 1, 2009. (b) It is an infraction, punishable by a fine of two hundred fifty dollars ($250), for a person to operate an undocumented vessel, requiring numbering by the state, that is not currently numbered by the state, and that does not comply with the emissions standards required by Section 2442 of Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations. (c) As used in this section, “spark-ignition marine engine” has the same meaning as that term is defined in Section 9853.7. (Added by Stats. 2007, Ch. 609, Sec. 3. Effective January 1, 2008. Operative July 1, 2008, by Sec. 4 of Ch. 609.)
  51. 9854.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    Some vessel owners must apply for a number within 30 days after the reciprocity period ends, and the application must follow the procedure used for issuing a number under Section 9853.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9854. The owner of any vessel already covered by a number in full force and effect that has been issued to it pursuant to then operative federal law or a federally approved numbering system of another state shall make application within 30 days after the 60-day reciprocity period provided for in Section 9873. Such application shall be in a manner and pursuant to the procedure required for the issuance of a number under Section 9853. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 72, Sec. 66. (SB 156) Effective July 2, 2024.)
  52. 9855.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    When ownership of an undocumented vessel changes, the ownership certificate and a new application with a $15 fee must be filed, and new ownership and number certificates are issued.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9855. If the ownership of an undocumented vessel changes, the existing certificate of ownership and a new application form accompanied by a fee of fifteen dollars ($15) shall be filed with the department and a new certificate of ownership and a new certificate of number shall be issued in the same manner as provided for in the initial issuance of number and the number shall be reassigned to the new owner. (Amended by Stats. 1990, Ch. 951, Sec. 3. Operative July 1, 1991, by Sec. 5 of Ch. 951.)
  53. 9856.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    A dealer receiving an undocumented vessel in the course of business may avoid the new certificate and fee requirements if the vessel is kept only for resale and the dealer has a sales permit.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9856. (a) It is not required that the department issue, or that an application be made for a new certificate of ownership or a new certificate of number, or that the fee prescribed in Section 9855 be paid on transfer of an undocumented vessel to a dealer in the course of his business as is otherwise provided in this division, if both of the following conditions are satisfied: (1) The vessel is held and operated by the dealer only for the purpose of resale in the course of his business. (2) The dealer has been issued a sales permit by the Board of Equalization covering sale of such property. (b) The certificate of ownership bearing the endorsement of the transferor to the dealer of a vessel registered pursuant to this section and the certificate of number thereof shall be retained by the dealer until a transfer of the vessel by him. During that time the certificates shall be subject to inspection by the department or other authorized agency. Upon transfer of the vessel by the dealer the certificate of ownership shall be endorsed by the dealer and transfer further accomplished as otherwise provided in this division. (Amended by Stats. 1984, Ch. 411, Sec. 3.)
  54. 9857.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a U.S. agency has an overall identification-numbering system for undocumented vessels, the numbering system used under this chapter must conform to it.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9857. If an agency of the United States government shall have in force an overall system of identification numbering for undocumented vessels within the United States, the numbering system employed pursuant to this chapter shall be in conformity therewith. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  55. 9858.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    The department may issue vessel ownership and number certificates directly, or authorize agents to do so.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9858. The department may issue any certificate of ownership and certificate of number or temporary certificate of number directly or the department may authorize any person to act as agent for the issuance of a certificate of number or temporary certificate of number. If a person accepts such authorization, he may be assigned a block of numbers which upon issuance, in conformity with this chapter and with any rules and regulations of the department, shall be valid as if issued directly by the department. Registration of vessels pursuant to the provisions of this code shall be conducted by the department or by any agent authorized by the department to conduct such registration. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  56. 9858.1.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    An authorized agent of the department may not charge more than $20 for documentary preparation.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9858.1. Any documentary preparation charge by an authorized agent of the department shall not exceed twenty dollars ($20). (Added by Stats. 1984, Ch. 1407, Sec. 2.)
  57. 9858.5.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    A licensed yacht and ship broker who is acting as an authorized agent of the department may collect vessel-transfer use tax and send the tax, registration application, and fees to the department, or may submit the application and fees so the department can collect any use tax due.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9858.5. Any licensed yacht and ship broker acting as an authorized agent of the department may collect use tax on a vessel transfer when applicable, and transmit the use tax and the registration application and applicable fees to the department, or may submit the registration application and applicable fees to the department for collection of any use tax due. (Added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 665, Sec. 2.)
  58. 9859.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    An agent must keep certain sale proceeds and use tax money separate from the agent’s other funds, and the state keeps ownership of that money.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9859. All money received by an agent from the sale of certificates of number or temporary certificates of number and use tax shall be kept separate and apart from any other funds of the agent, and shall at all times belong to the state. In case of an assignment for the benefit of creditors, receivership, or bankruptcy, the state shall have a preferred claim against the assignee, receiver, or trustee for all moneys owing the state for the sale of certificates as provided in this code and any use tax, and shall not be estopped from asserting such claim by reason of the commingling of funds or otherwise. (Amended by Stats. 2009, Ch. 500, Sec. 61. (AB 1059) Effective January 1, 2010.)
  59. 9860.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    Vessel certificates of number must be renewed by midnight of the expiration date, with the renewal fee paid at the same time.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9860. (a) Certificates of number shall be renewed before midnight of the expiration date by presentation of the certificate of number last issued for the vessel or by presentation of a potential registration card issued by the department. (b) The fee for renewal shall be twenty dollars ($20) for each two-year period, and shall accompany the request for renewal. (c) If the certificate of number and potential registration card are unavailable, the fee specified in Section 9867 shall not be paid. (d) (1) The department shall collect, from resident and nonresident vessel owners, separate from the fee for renewal, an invasive mussel infestation prevention fee in an amount established by the Department of Boating and Waterways pursuant to Section 675 of the Harbors and Navigation Code. (2) Failure to pay the fee described in this subdivision does not prohibit the department from issuing renewal registration of the vessel. (3) (A) A vessel operator may be issued a citation for operating the vessel in nonmarine waters without a valid state-issued invasive mussel infestation prevention sticker. (B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a vessel that is exempt pursuant to Section 5211 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations shall not be cited pursuant to subparagraph (A). (e) The department shall provide documentation of its administrative costs pursuant to this section to the Department of Boating and Waterways. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 106, Sec. 18. (AB 149) Effective September 17, 2025.)
  60. 9861.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    Certificates of number expire on December 31 of every odd-numbered year.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9861. All certificates of number expire on December 31 of every odd-numbered year. (Amended by Stats. 2005, Ch. 473, Sec. 3. Effective January 1, 2006.)
  61. 9862.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    Late vessel registration or transfer-related filings trigger a penalty equal to one-half of the relevant fee.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9862. (a) If the initial application for a number is not received by the department on or before the date set by the department, a penalty of one-half of the fee shall be assessed. If a certificate of number is not renewed on or before midnight of the expiration date, a penalty of one-half of the fee shall be assessed. (b) If any person has received as the transferee of a vessel a properly endorsed certificate of ownership and certificate of number describing that vessel and the transfer fee has not been paid as required by this code within 30 days, a penalty of one-half of the transfer fee specified in Section 9855 shall be assessed. (Amended by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1352, Sec. 14. Effective September 27, 1990. Applicable from July 1, 1990, pursuant to Sec. 21 of Ch. 1352.)
  62. 9862.5.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    When calculating a penalty under this chapter, ignore fractions of a dollar unless the fraction is at least $0.50; then round it up to $1.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9862.5. In computing any penalty imposed under this chapter, a fraction of a dollar shall be disregarded unless it equals or exceeds fifty cents ($0.50), in which case it shall be treated as one dollar ($1). (Amended by Stats. 2001, Ch. 825, Sec. 12. Effective January 1, 2002.)
  63. 9863.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section directs how registration-related fees and related funds must be deposited, allocated, and appropriated.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9863. (a) Except as required under subdivisions (b) and (c), and except moneys collected under Section 9875, fees received pursuant to this chapter shall be deposited in the Harbors and Watercraft Revolving Fund and, notwithstanding Section 13340 of the Government Code, are continuously appropriated, without regard to fiscal years, for the administration of this chapter by the department. Funds in the Harbors and Watercraft Revolving Fund derived pursuant to this chapter in excess of the amount determined by the Director of Finance, from time to time, to be necessary for expenditure for the administration of this chapter, notwithstanding Section 13340 of the Government Code, are continuously appropriated to the Department of Boating and Waterways, without regard to fiscal years, for expenditure in accordance with Section 663.7 of the Harbors and Navigation Code. (b) Funds derived from imposition of the biennial registration fee under paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) of Section 9853, or under subdivision (b) of Section 9860, shall be distributed as follows: (1) One-half shall be continuously appropriated pursuant to subdivision (a). (2) One-half shall be allocated, upon appropriation, to the Department of Boating and Waterways for expenditure in support of programs under the department’s jurisdiction. (c) Funds derived from the imposition of the invasive mussel prevention fee under subdivision (c) of Section 9853, or under subdivision (d) of Section 9860, shall be distributed as specified in Section 676 of the Harbors and Navigation Code. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 106, Sec. 19. (AB 149) Effective September 17, 2025.)
  64. 9864.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    The owner must notify the department within 15 days when an undocumented vessel is wrecked, dismantled, destroyed, or abandoned, and must surrender any existing ownership/number certificates. The department may order the vessel destroyed after 30 days if abandonment is confirmed and no interested party claims or keeps an interest.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9864. The owner shall furnish the department notice of the wrecking or dismantling, or the destruction or abandonment of an undocumented vessel within 15 days thereof. The wrecking, dismantling, destruction or abandonment shall terminate the certificate of ownership and certificate of number of such undocumented vessel which if in existence shall be surrendered to the department. The department, upon receiving notice of the abandonment of an undocumented vessel, or upon an official determination that an undocumented vessel has been abandoned, may order the destruction of such vessel at the expiration of 30 days if an investigation by the department has disclosed that no owner, legal owner, or lienholder claims an interest in the vessel, or if those persons have waived their interest. Nothing in this section shall be construed to deny the legal rights, otherwise provided for by law, of any person claiming an interest in an abandoned vessel if that person notifies the department within the time specified therefor. (Amended by Stats. 1987, Ch. 298, Sec. 4.)
  65. 9865.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    A certificate holder must tell the department within 15 days if the address on the certificate no longer matches, and must provide the new address.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9865. Any holder of a certificate of number shall notify the department within 15 days, if his address no longer conforms to the address appearing on the certificate and shall, as part of such notification, furnish the department with his new address. The department may provide for the surrender of the certificate bearing the former address and its replacement with a certificate bearing the new address or for the alteration of an outstanding certificate to show the new address of the holder. (Amended by Stats. 1973, Ch. 759.)
  66. 9866.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    An undocumented vessel may display only the number issued to it or a reciprocity number granted under this chapter on either side of the bow.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9866. No number other than the number issued to an undocumented vessel or granted reciprocity pursuant to this chapter shall be painted, attached, or otherwise displayed on either side of the bow of such undocumented vessel. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  67. 9867.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    A $15 fee must be charged for a duplicate certificate of number, a duplicate certificate of ownership, or current-year registration stickers.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9867. A fee of fifteen dollars ($15) shall be charged for a duplicate of certificate of number, certificate of ownership, or current year registration stickers. (Amended by Stats. 1990, Ch. 951, Sec. 4. Operative July 1, 1991, by Sec. 5 of Ch. 951.)
  68. 9867.5.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    When applying to transfer vessel registration, a fee specified elsewhere must be paid to the department in addition to the regular transfer fee.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9867.5. Upon application for transfer of registration pursuant to Section 9917, a fee as specified in Section 9867 shall be paid to the department in addition to the regular transfer fee. (Added by Stats. 1978, Ch. 497.)
  69. 9868.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    Fees received under this chapter are set aside to pay refunds in certain cases.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9868. Fees received pursuant to this chapter are appropriated for payment of refunds of money received or collected in the payment of fees, permits, or services whenever the fee, permit or service cannot lawfully be issued or rendered to the applicant, and in cases where the payment in whole or in part represents overpayment or payment in duplicate. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  70. 9869.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    The department must send vessel application and status information to the relevant county assessor(s).

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9869. The department shall transmit information from each initial application and each transfer application or renewal application to the county assessor in the county of residence of the owner of the vessel and to the county assessor in the county in which the vessel is principally kept if other than the county of residence of the owner, if such other county is known to the department. If an application shows that the owner of the vessel has changed his residence from one county to another county or shows that there has been a change in the county in which the vessel is principally kept, the department shall transmit information of the change to the assessor of the county in which the owner of the vessel formerly resided or to the assessor of the county in which the vessel formerly was principally kept. After the department receives a notice pursuant to Section 9864, the department shall transmit information of the destruction or abandonment to the assessor of the county in which the owner of the vessel resides and to the assessor of the county in which the vessel is or was principally kept, if other than the county of residence of the owner, if such other county was known to the department. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  71. 9870.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    Certain nonprofit public benefit corporations are exempt from paying specified vessel registration fees.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9870. A nonprofit public benefit corporation governed by the Nonprofit Public Benefit Corporation Law (Part 2 (commencing with Section 5110) of Division 2 of Title 1 of the Corporations Code), which purposes relate to promoting the ability of boys and girls to do things for themselves, to train them in scoutcraft and camping, and to teach them patriotism, courage, self-reliance and kindred virtues, shall not be required to pay the fees provided for in Sections 9853, 9855, and 9860. (Amended by Stats. 1984, Ch. 411, Sec. 6.)
  72. 9871.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    The department may assign a hull identification number to an undocumented vessel when applying for original registration or transfer of registration if no number exists or the existing number was destroyed or obliterated.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9871. Upon application for original registration or transfer of registration of an undocumented vessel, the department may assign an appropriate hull identification number to such vessel whenever there is no hull identification number thereon, or when a hull identification number thereon has been destroyed or obliterated; and such hull identification number shall be permanently marked in an integral part of the hull which is accessible for inspection. (Amended by Stats. 1980, Ch. 617, Sec. 2.)
  73. 9871.5.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    When renewing registration of an undocumented vessel, the applicant must provide the hull identification number if the department’s records do not already have it. If the vessel has no hull number, the department may assign one.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9871.5. Upon application for renewal of registration of an undocumented vessel, the applicant is required to furnish the hull identification number if the records of the department do not contain such number. If the vessel does not have a hull number, the department may assign an appropriate hull identification number. (Added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 617, Sec. 3.)
  74. 9872.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    A person must not deface, destroy, or alter a vessel’s hull identification number without written authorization from the department, and must not add numbers or marks to an undocumented vessel if that could interfere with identifying the hull identification number.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9872. No person shall intentionally deface, destroy, or alter the hull identification number of a vessel required to be numbered under this chapter without written authorization from the department; nor shall any person place or stamp any serial or other number or mark upon an undocumented vessel which might interfere with identification of the hull identification number. This does not prohibit the restoration by an owner of an original number or mark when the restoration is authorized by the department, nor prevent any manufacturer from placing, in the ordinary course of business, numbers or marks upon new vessels or new parts thereof. (Amended by Stats. 1980, Ch. 617, Sec. 4.)
  75. 9872.1.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    You must not knowingly buy, sell, offer for sale, receive, or possess a vessel or part with its hull identification number removed, altered, defaced, or destroyed unless an approved or assigned replacement number is attached.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9872.1. (a) No person shall knowingly buy, sell, offer for sale, receive, or have in his or her possession any vessel, or component part thereof, from which the hull identification number has been removed, defaced, altered, or destroyed, unless the vessel or component part has attached thereto a hull identification number assigned or approved by the department in lieu of the manufacturer’s number. (b) Whenever a vessel, or component part thereof, from which the hull identification number has been removed, defaced, altered, or destroyed, and which does not have attached thereto an assigned or approved number as described in subdivision (a), comes into the custody of a peace officer, the seized vessel or component part is subject, in accordance with the procedures specified in this section, to impoundment and to such disposition as may be provided by order of a court having jurisdiction. This subdivision does not apply with respect to a seized vessel or component part used as evidence in any criminal action or proceeding. (c) Whenever a vessel or component part described in subdivision (a) comes into the custody of a peace officer, any person from whom the property was seized, and all claimants to the property whose interest or title is on registration records in the department, shall be notified within five days, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, after the seizure, of the date, time, and place of the hearing required in subdivision (e). The notice shall contain the information specified in subdivision (d). (d) Whenever a peace officer seizes a vessel or component part as provided in subdivision (b), any person from whom the property was seized shall be provided a notice of impoundment of the vessel or component part which shall serve as a receipt and contain the following information: (1) Name and address of person from whom the property was seized. (2) A statement that the vessel or component part seized has been impounded for investigation of a violation of this section and that the property will be released upon a determination that the hull identification number has not been removed, defaced, altered, or destroyed, or upon the presentation of satisfactory evidence of ownership of the vessel or component part, provided that no other person claims an interest in the property; otherwise, a hearing regarding the disposition of the vessel or component part shall take place in the proper court. (3) A statement that any person from whom the property was seized, and all claimants to the property whose interest or title is on registration records in the department, will receive written notification of the date, time, and place of the hearing within five days, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, after the seizure. (4) Name and address of the law enforcement agency where evidence of ownership of the vessel or component part may be presented. (5) A statement of the contents of this section. (e) A hearing on the disposition of the property shall be held by the superior court within 60 days after the seizure. The hearing shall be before the court without a jury. A proceeding under this section is a limited civil case. (1) If the evidence reveals either that the hull identification number has not been removed, altered, or destroyed or that the hull identification number has been removed, altered, or destroyed but satisfactory evidence of ownership has been presented to the seizing agency or court, the property shall be released to the person entitled thereto. (2) If the evidence reveals that the hull identification number has been removed, altered, or destroyed, and satisfactory evidence of ownership has not been presented, the property shall be destroyed, sold, or otherwise disposed of as provided by court order. (3) At the hearing, the seizing agency shall have the burden of establishing that the hull identification number has been removed, defaced, altered, or destroyed and that no satisfactory evidence of ownership has been presented. (f) Nothing in this section precludes the return of a seized vessel or component part to the owner by the seizing agency following presentation of satisfactory evidence of ownership and, if determined necessary, upon the assignment of an identification number to the vessel or component part by the department. (Amended by Stats. 2002, Ch. 784, Sec. 595. Effective January 1, 2003.)
  76. 9872.5.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section says no certificate of ownership may be issued under this chapter for an amphibious vehicle if the department may issue one under other provisions of the code, and it defines “amphibious vehicle.”

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9872.5. No certificate of ownership shall be issued under this chapter for any “amphibious vehicle” for which a certificate of ownership may be issued by the department under other provisions of this code. For the purposes of this section, an “amphibious vehicle” is a device by which any person or property may be propelled, moved, or drawn, both upon water and upon a highway on land. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1439.)
  77. 9873.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    Most undocumented vessels do not have to be numbered under this chapter if they fit one of the listed exemptions.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9873. An undocumented vessel shall not be required to be numbered under this chapter if it is: (a) Already covered by a number in full force and effect that has been issued to it pursuant to federal law or a federally approved numbering system of another state; provided, that such undocumented vessel shall be subject to the numbering requirements of this chapter if it has changed its state of principal use and has been within this state for a period in excess of 60 consecutive days. (b) A vessel from a country other than the United States temporarily using the waters of this state. (c) A public vessel of the United States, another state or subdivision thereof or municipality of such other state. (d) A ship’s lifeboat. (e) Any vessel belonging to a class of boats that has been exempted from numbering by the department after the department has found that the numbering of vessels of such class will not materially aid in their identification; and, if any agency of the federal government has a numbering system applicable to the class of vessels to which the vessel in question belongs, after the department has further found that the vessel would also be exempt from numbering if it were subject to the federal law. An undocumented vessel propelled solely by oars or paddles and an undocumented vessel eight feet or less propelled solely by sail are exempt from this chapter. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 72, Sec. 67. (SB 156) Effective July 2, 2024.)
  78. 9874.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    The department may suspend, cancel, or revoke vessel registration and related certificates if they were fraudulently obtained or erroneously issued, or if the required fee is not paid after reasonable notice and demand.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9874. The department may suspend, cancel, or revoke the registration of a vessel, a certificate of number, sticker, certificate of ownership, or temporary certificate of number in any of the following cases: (a) When the department is satisfied that the registration or the certificate of number, sticker, certificate of ownership, or temporary certificate of number was fraudulently obtained or erroneously issued. (b) When the department determines that the required fee has not been paid and the same is not paid upon reasonable notice and demand. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  79. 9875.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    Except as provided in Section 40000.8, a person who violates this chapter or a department rule adopted under it commits an infraction.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9875. Except as provided in Section 40000.8, any person who violates any provision of this chapter or any rule or regulation of the department adopted pursuant to this chapter is guilty of an infraction, punishable under Section 42001. (Amended by Stats. 1991, Ch. 922, Sec. 6.)
  80. 9880.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    The department may not renew or transfer vessel registration while delinquent vessel taxes are outstanding, and it may not issue new certificates until the tax delinquency is cleared.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Registration [9850 - 9880] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9880. (a) The department shall not renew the certificate of number of, or allow a transfer of any title to or interest in, a vessel if the county tax collector has notified the department pursuant to Section 3205 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, that taxes are delinquent upon the vessel, and the department shall not subsequently issue a certificate of number for, or a new certificate of ownership reflecting a transfer of title to or interest in, that vessel until the department receives a certificate of clearance from the county tax collector that the delinquent taxes have been paid on that vessel or until the county tax collector has provided notice to the department that the delinquency has been satisfied. (b) The department shall record the notice of delinquent taxes on the vessel. If the department is notified by the county tax collector that the delinquency has been satisfied, the department shall, if all other requirements are satisfied, issue a certificate of number for, or a new certificate of ownership reflecting a transfer of title to or interest in, the vessel. The department shall assess a fee upon each county tax collector in an amount that is sufficient to reimburse the department for its actual costs of administering this section. (c) Whenever a vessel subject to this section is transferred, or not renewed for 26 months, the department shall notify the county tax collector of that fact. (Amended by Stats. 1997, Ch. 546, Sec. 13. Effective January 1, 1998.)
  81. 9900.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    A transfer of title or interest in an undocumented vessel does not take effect until delinquent property taxes are paid and one of the stated transfer-filing steps is completed.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9900. No transfer of the title or any interest in or to an undocumented vessel numbered under this code shall pass, and any attempted transfer shall not be effective, until the parties thereto have paid any delinquent property taxes with respect to that vessel and fulfilled either of the following requirements: (a) The transferor has made proper endorsement and delivery of the certificate of ownership to the transferee as provided in this code and the transferee has delivered to the department or has placed the certificates in the United States mail addressed to the department when and as required under this code with the proper transfer fee and thereby makes application for a new certificate of ownership and a new certificate of number. (b) The transferor has delivered to the department or has placed in the United States mail addressed to the department the appropriate documents for the transfer of ownership of the vessel pursuant to the sale or transfer except as otherwise provided. (Amended by Stats. 1994, Ch. 940, Sec. 5. Effective January 1, 1995. Operative July 1, 1995, by Sec. 6 of Ch. 940.)
  82. 9901.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a transferee receives a properly endorsed certificate of ownership, they must forward the certificates and the transfer fee to the department within 10 days and apply for a certificate of ownership and certificate of number.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9901. Whenever any person has received as transferee a properly endorsed certificate of ownership, he or she shall, within 10 days thereafter, forward the certificates with the transfer fee specified in Section 9855 to the department, and thereby make application for a certificate of ownership and certificate of number. (Amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 766, Sec. 7. Effective January 1, 1996.)
  83. 9902.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    The department must issue new vessel ownership and number certificates when it receives the endorsed ownership certificate, a new application, and the required fee.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9902. The department, upon receipt of a properly endorsed certificate of ownership and a new application form and the required fee, shall issue a new certificate of ownership and a new certificate of number in the same manner as provided for in the initial issuance of number and the number may be reassigned to the new owner, provided, however, in the case of a transfer of a part interest which does not affect the owner’s right to operate such undocumented vessel the transfer shall not terminate the certificate of number. (Amended by Stats. 1988, Ch. 1268, Sec. 16.)
  84. 9903.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    Before issuing a certificate of ownership, the department must get a signed written statement with sale and party details; when a vessel’s ownership is transferred, it must send the vessel information and required data to the State Board of Equalization as promptly as feasible.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9903. (a) Prior to the issuance of any certificate of ownership the department shall obtain a statement in writing, signed by the transferee or transferor, showing: (1) The date of the sale or other transfer of ownership of the vessel. (2) The name and address of the seller or transferor. (3) The name and address of the buyer or transferee. (4) The total consideration (valued in money) given for the sale or other transfer of the vessel, including any motor or other component part of the vessel included in the sale or other transfer. (b) Upon the transfer of ownership of a vessel the department shall forward to the State Board of Equalization information from its records identifying the vessel together with the data required by subdivision (a). The information shall be transmitted as promptly as feasible and in such form and manner as shall be agreed between the department and the board. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  85. 9905.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    An owner who sells or transfers an undocumented vessel and delivers possession is not treated as the owner for later civil liability if the required ownership paperwork or notice is completed.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9905. An owner who has made a bona fide sale or transfer of an undocumented vessel and has delivered possession of the vessel to a purchaser shall not by reason of any of the provisions of this code or the Harbors and Navigation Code be deemed the owner of the vessel so as to be subject to civil liability for the operation of the vessel thereafter by another when the owner, in addition to the foregoing, has fulfilled either of the following requirements: (a) Made proper endorsement and delivery of the certificate of ownership as provided in this code. (b) Delivered to the department or placed in the United States mail, addressed to the department, either the notice as provided in Sections 9911 and 9912 or appropriate documents for transfer of the vessel pursuant to the sale or transfer. (Amended by Stats. 1991, Ch. 13, Sec. 23. Effective February 13, 1991.)
  86. 9906.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    A legal owner may assign title or interest in an undocumented vessel to someone else without the owner’s consent.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9906. A legal owner may assign his title or interest in or to an undocumented vessel numbered under this code to a person other than the owner without the consent of and without affecting the interest of the owner. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  87. 9907.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    When title or an interest in an undocumented vessel is transferred, the transferor must sign and the transferee must sign and provide an address on the vessel’s certificate of ownership.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9907. Upon transfer of the title or any interest of the legal owner or legal owners in an undocumented vessel numbered under this code, the transferor shall write his signature, and the transferee shall write his signature and address, in the appropriate spaces provided upon the reverse side of the certificate of ownership issued for the vessel. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  88. 9908.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    When a registered owner transfers title or an interest in an undocumented vessel, the registered owner, transferee, and legal owner must each sign and provide addresses in the certificate of ownership as specified.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9908. Upon transfer of the title or interest or any part thereof of the registered owner only in an undocumented vessel numbered under this code, the registered owner shall write his signature and address and the transferee shall write his signature and address in the appropriate spaces provided on the reverse side of the certificate of ownership for the vessel, and the legal owner shall write his signature in the space provided for the new legal owner indicating that he is to retain his legal title and interest. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  89. 9909.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a vessel’s required ownership certificate is lost, stolen, damaged, or mutilated, a transfer application may be made on a department form for a duplicate certificate, and the transferor must sign, give an address, and file the application with the proper fees.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9909. When the required certificate of ownership is lost, stolen, damaged, or mutilated, application for transfer may be made upon a form provided by the department for a duplicate certificate of ownership. The transferor shall write his signature and address in the appropriate spaces provided upon the application and file the same together with the proper fees for duplicate certificate of ownership and transfer. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  90. 9910.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    A person must not fail to deliver the certificate of number, and if they have it, must properly endorse, date, and deliver the certificate of ownership to an eligible transferee.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9910. It is unlawful for any person to fail or neglect to deliver the certificate of number and, when having possession, to properly endorse, date, and deliver the certificate of ownership to a transferee who is lawfully entitled to a transfer of ownership. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  91. 9911.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    If the owner of an undocumented vessel sells or transfers it and delivers possession, the owner must notify the department within five calendar days.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9911. Whenever the owner of an undocumented vessel numbered under this code sells or transfers his or her title or interest in, or any part thereof, and delivers the possession of, the vessel to another, the owner shall, within five calendar days, notify the department of the sale or transfer by giving the date thereof, the name and address of the owner and of the transferee and a description of the vessel as may be required in the appropriate form provided for the purpose by the department. (Amended by Stats. 1992, Ch. 427, Sec. 166. Effective January 1, 1993.)
  92. 9912.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    Dealers must give the department written notice of a transfer of an undocumented vessel by the end of the next business day, unless the vessel is a new unnumbered vessel transferred to another dealer.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9912. Every dealer upon transferring by sale, lease or otherwise any undocumented vessel, whether new or used, required to be numbered under this code, shall, not later than the end of the next business day of the dealer, give written notice of the transfer to the department upon an appropriate form provided by it, but a dealer need not give the notice when selling or transferring a new unnumbered vessel to another dealer. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  93. 9913.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a vessel security interest is satisfied, canceled, or released and a new security interest is executed within 10 days between the same parties, no ownership transfer application or new ownership/number certificate is required.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9913. When a security interest upon a numbered vessel is satisfied, canceled, or released by the parties thereto who are the registered owner and legal owner respectively of said vessel and thereafter within a period of 10 days a new security interest covering the vessel is executed between the same parties, no application for transfer of ownership by reason thereof shall be made, no new certificate of ownership or certificate of number shall be issued, and all provisions of this code relating to transfers of any title or interest in a vessel shall be deemed to have been fully complied with. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  94. 9914.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    A transferee of a security interest in a numbered vessel does not have to apply for transfer of ownership if the security interest comes from a pledge of security agreement by the legal owner to the pledgee.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9914. The transferee of a security interest in the interest of a legal owner of a numbered vessel need not make application for a transfer of ownership when the security interest arises from a pledge of security agreement by the legal owner to the pledgee. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  95. 9915.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a vessel changes hands involuntarily, the new owner or legal owner may apply to get the ownership transferred, and the department must mail notice and then complete the transfer if it is satisfied the transfer is genuine and regular.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9915. (a) Whenever the title or interest of any owner or legal owner in or to a vessel numbered under this code passes to another otherwise than by a voluntary transfer, the new owner or legal owner may obtain a transfer of ownership upon application therefor and upon presentation of the last certificate of ownership and certificate of number issued for the vessel, if available, and any instruments or documents of authority or certified copies thereof as may be required by the department, or required by law, to evidence or effect a transfer of title or interest in or to chattels in such case. (b) The department when satisfied of the genuineness and regularity of the transfer shall give notice by mail to the owner and legal owner of the vessel as shown by the records of the department and five days after the giving of the notice, if still satisfied of the genuineness and regularity of such transfer, shall transfer the ownership of the vessel accordingly and issue a new certificate of ownership and cerificate of number to the person or persons entitled thereto. Such notice shall not be required for an involuntary transfer when repossession involves a secured party. (Amended by Stats. 1975, Ch. 918.)
  96. 9916.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    After 40 days, certain heirs or beneficiaries may transfer a deceased owner’s vessel title or interest by filing the required documents with the department.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9916. (a) If 40 days have elapsed since the death of an owner or legal owner of any vessel numbered under this division without the decedent leaving other property necessitating probate, and irrespective of the value of the vessel, the following person may secure a transfer of ownership of the title or interest of the decedent: (1) The sole person or all of the persons who succeeded to the property of the decedent under Sections 6401 and 6402 of the Probate Code unless the vessel is, by will, otherwise bequeathed. (2) The sole beneficiary or all of the beneficiaries who succeeded to the vessel under the will of the decedent where the vessel is, by will, so bequeathed. (b) The person authorized by subdivision (a) may secure a transfer of ownership of the title or interest of the decedent upon presenting to the department all of the following: (1) The appropriate certificate of ownership and certificate of number, if available. (2) A certificate of the heir or beneficiary under penalty of perjury containing the following statements: (A) The date and place of the decedent’s death. (B) The decedent left no other property necessitating probate and no probate proceeding is now being or has been conducted in this state for the decedent’s estate. (C) The declarant is entitled to the vessel either (i) as the sole person or all of the persons who succeeded to the property of the decedent under Sections 6401 and 6402 of the Probate Code if the decedent left no will or (ii) as the beneficiary or beneficiaries under the decedent’s last will if the decedent left a will, and no one has a right to the decedent’s vessel that is superior to that of the declarant. (D) There are no unsecured creditors of the decedent or, if there are, the unsecured creditors of the decedent have been paid in full or their claims have been otherwise discharged. (3) If required by the department, a certificate of the death of the decedent. (4) If required by the department, the names and addresses of any other heirs or beneficiaries. (c) If the department is presented with the documents specified in paragraphs (1) and (2) of subdivision (b), no liability shall be incurred by the department or any officer or employee of the department by reason of the transfer of registration of the vessel pursuant to this section. The department or officer or employee of the department may rely in good faith on the statements in the certificate specified in paragraph (2) of subdivision (b) and has no duty to inquire into the truth of any statement in the certificate. The person who secures the transfer of the vessel pursuant to this section is subject to the provisions of Section 13109 to 13113, inclusive, of the Probate Code to the same extent as a person to whom transfer of property is made under Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 13100) of Part 1 of Division 8 of the Probate Code. (Amended by Stats. 1986, Ch. 783, Sec. 27. Operative July 1, 1987, by Sec. 30 of Ch. 783.)
  97. 9916.5.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section lets a vessel pass to a surviving beneficiary on the owner’s death, and limits how beneficiary designations can be changed before death.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9916.5. (a) On death of the owner of a vessel numbered under this division and owned in beneficiary form, the vessel belongs to the surviving beneficiary, if any. If there is no surviving beneficiary, the vessel belongs to the estate of the deceased owner. (b) A certificate of ownership in beneficiary form may be revoked or the beneficiary changed at any time before the death of the owner by either of the following methods: (1) By sale of the vessel with property assignment and delivery of the certificate of ownership to another person. (2) By application for a new certificate of ownership without designation of a beneficiary or with the designation of a different beneficiary. (c) Except as provided in subdivision (b), designation of a beneficiary in a certificate of ownership issued in beneficiary form may not be changed or revoked by will, by any other instrument, by a change of circumstances, or otherwise. (d) The beneficiary’s interest in the vessel at death of the owner is subject to any contract of sale, assignment, or security interest to which the owner was subject during his or her lifetime. (e) The surviving beneficiary may secure a transfer of ownership for the vessel upon presenting to the department all of the following: (1) The appropriate certificate of ownership. (2) A certificate under penalty of perjury stating the date and place of the owner’s death and that the declarant is entitled to the vessel as the designated beneficiary. (3) If required by the department, a certificate of the death of the owner. (f) After the death of the owner, the surviving beneficiary may transfer his or her interest in the vessel to another person without securing transfer of ownership into his or her own name by appropriately signing the certificate of ownership for the vessel and delivering the document to the transferee for forwarding to the department with appropriate fees. The transferee may secure a transfer of ownership upon presenting to the department (1) the certificate of title signed by the beneficiary, (2) the certificate described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e) executed by the beneficiary under penalty of perjury, and (3) if required by the department, a certificate of death of the owner. (g) A transfer at death pursuant to this section is effective by reason of this section, and shall not be deemed to be a testamentary disposition of property. The right of the designated beneficiary to the vessel shall not be denied, abridged, or affected on the grounds that the right has not been created by a writing executed in accordance with the laws of this state prescribing the requirements to effect a valid testamentary disposition of property. (h) A transfer at death pursuant to this section is subject to Section 9653 of the Probate Code. (i) If there is no surviving beneficiary, the person or persons described in Section 9916 may secure transfer of the vessel as provided in that section. (j) The department may prescribe forms for use pursuant to this section. (Added by Stats. 1991, Ch. 1055, Sec. 62. Operative January 1, 1993, by Sec. 64 of Ch. 1055.)
  98. 9916.7.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    If the department makes a transfer under Section 9916.5, it is protected from liability, unless it has been served with a court order restraining the transfer.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9916.7. (a) If the department makes a transfer pursuant to Section 9916.5, the department is discharged from all liability, whether or not the transfer is consistent with the beneficial ownership of the vessel transferred. (b) The protection provided by subdivision (a) does not extend to a transfer made after the department has been served with a court order restraining the transfer. No other notice or information shown to have been available to the department shall affect its right to the protection afforded by subdivision (a). (c) The protection provided by this section has no bearing on the rights of parties in disputes between themselves or their successors concerning the beneficial ownership of the vessel. (d) The protection provided by this section is in addition to, and not exclusive of, any other protection provided to the department by any other provision of law. (Added by Stats. 1991, Ch. 1055, Sec. 63. Operative January 1, 1993, by Sec. 64 of Ch. 1055.)
  99. 9917.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a vessel ownership transfer is requested and the ownership certificate is lost or unavailable, the department may accept the application, investigate, ask for affidavits or other information, and, if satisfied the applicant is entitled, transfer ownership and issue new ownership and number certificates.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9917. Whenever application is made to the department for a transfer of ownership of a vessel to a new owner or legal owner and the applicant is unable to present the certificate of ownership issued for the vessel by reason of the same being lost or otherwise not available, the department may receive the application and examine into the circumstances of the case and may require the filing of affidavits or other information, and when the department is satisfied that the applicant is entitled to a transfer of ownership, the department may transfer the ownership of the vessel, and issue a new certificate of ownership, and certificate of number to the person or persons found to be entitled thereto. (Amended by Stats. 1988, Ch. 1268, Sec. 18.)
  100. 9918.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    The department is not required to withhold a vessel transfer when the transfer application follows the code, appears genuine and regular, and there is no recent law enforcement request or court order restraining the transfer.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9918. If the application for a transfer is made in the manner provided in this code, the department shall not be required to withhold the transfer of any right, title or interest in or to a vessel if the application on its face appears to be genuine and regular and the department has received neither a request from any law enforcement agency that action on the application be deferred nor an order of a court of the United States or of the State of California restraining the transfer within two years prior thereto. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  101. 9919.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    A vessel security interest is not perfected until the secured party files a properly endorsed certificate of ownership with the department; if the vessel is not yet numbered, the owner must first file an initial application for number.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9919. No security interest in any vessel numbered under this code, irrespective of whether such number was effected prior or subsequent to the creation of such security interest, is perfected, until the secured party, or his successor or assignee, has deposited with the department a properly endorsed certificate of ownership to the vessel, subject to the security interest, showing the secured party as legal owner if the vessel is then numbered under this code; or if the vessel is not so numbered, the owner shall file an initial application for number as provided for in this code, and the certificate of ownership issued under said application shall contain the name and address of the legal owner. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  102. 9920.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    A security interest in an undocumented vessel is perfected when the required certificate of ownership is deposited with the department.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9920. When the secured party, his successor or assignee, has deposited with the department a properly endorsed certificate of ownership showing the secured party as legal owner, or if the vessel is not numbered when the owner shall file an initial application for number as provided for in this code, and the certificate of ownership issued under said application shows said secured party as the legal owner, and said certificate of ownership is deposited with the department, the deposit constitutes perfection of the security interest. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  103. 9921.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    After the certificate of ownership is deposited with the department, the department must record the secured party, or that party’s successor or assignee, as the legal owner of the vessel.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9921. Upon the deposit with the department of the certificate of ownership showing the secured party as legal owner as provided in Section 9919 hereof, the department shall on its records show the secured party, his successor or assignee, as legal owner with respect to such vessel. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  104. 9922.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    The chapter’s method for perfecting a security interest in a numbered vessel is the only method allowed.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9922. The method provided in this chapter for perfecting a security interest in a vessel numbered under this code is exclusive. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  105. 9923.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    If ownership evidence is missing, the department may accept an undertaking or bond for a vessel registration or transfer application.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9923. In the absence of the regularly required supporting evidence of ownership upon application for registration or transfer of a vessel, the department may accept an undertaking or bond in the amount of the fair market value of the vessel at the time of the application, as determined by the department, which shall be conditioned to protect the department and all officers and employees thereof and any subsequent purchaser of the vessel, any person acquiring a lien or security interest thereon, or the successor in interest of such purchaser or person, against any loss or damage on account of any defect in or undisclosed claim upon the right, title, and interest of the applicant or other person in and to the vessel. (Added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
  106. 9924.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    If the vessel is no longer registered in California and the certificate of ownership is surrendered to the department, or if the vessel has been destroyed or lost, the bond or undertaking must be returned and surrendered after three years.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9924. In the event the vessel is no longer registered in this state and the currently valid certificate of ownership is surrendered to the department or the vessel has been destroyed or lost, the bond or undertaking shall be returned and surrendered after three years. (Amended by Stats. 1982, Ch. 517, Sec. 389.)
  107. 9928.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. )

    Verify source ↗

    The department must withhold vessel registration documents in certain retail sales until the buyer pays use tax and any penalty, unless the State Board of Equalization finds no tax is due.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.5. REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF VESSELS [9840 - 9928] ( Division 3.5 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Transfer of Title or Interest in Undocumented Vessel [9900 - 9928] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428. ) ## 9928. The department shall withhold the certificate of number or the transfer of registration of any vessel sold at retail to any applicant by any person other than a person holding a seller’s permit pursuant to Section 6066 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, and regularly engaged in the business of selling vessels, until the applicant pays to the department the use tax measured by the sales price of the vessel as required by the Sales and Use Tax Law, together with penalty, if any, unless the State Board of Equalization finds that no use tax is due. If the applicant so desires, he may pay the use tax and penalty, if any, to the department so as to secure immediate action upon his application for registration or transfer of registration and thereafter he may apply through the Department of Motor Vehicles to the State Board of Equalization under the provisions of the Sales and Use Tax Law for a refund of the amount so paid. (b) The department shall transmit to the State Board of Equalization all collections of the use tax and penalty made under this section. This transmittal shall be made at least monthly, accompanied by a schedule in such form as the department and board may prescribe. (c) The State Board of Equalization shall reimburse the department for its costs incurred in carrying out the provisions of this section. (d) In computing any use tax or penalty thereon under the provisions of the section, dollar fractions shall be disregarded in the manner specified in Section 9559. Payment of tax and penalty on this basis shall be deemed full compliance with the requirements of the Sales and Use Tax Law insofar as they are applicable to the use of vessels to which this section relates. (e) The department and the State Board of Equalization shall enter into an agreement for the collection of the use tax pursuant to this section and Section 6294 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The agreement shall specify the procedures agreed upon by the department and the board for collection of the tax and the reimbursement provided for in subdivision (c). The agreement shall be approved by the Department of Finance. (Added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 665, Sec. 5.)
  108. 9950.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Advertising, Brochures, and Manuals [9950 - 9955] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. )

    Verify source ↗

    Ads, brochures, owner’s manuals, and sales manuals for certain gasoline-powered vehicles must use only the SAE horsepower rating when mentioning engine horsepower.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Advertising, Brochures, and Manuals [9950 - 9955] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## 9950. Any advertisement, brochure, owner’s manual, or sales manual relating to any gasoline-powered motor vehicle of a type subject to registration with a manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating of under 6,000 pounds of 1972 or later year model which contains any reference to the horsepower of the engine of the vehicle shall state only the Society of Automotive Engineers horsepower rating of such engine, as installed (net), as determined by S.A.E. Standard J1349. (Amended by Stats. 1986, Ch. 1212, Sec. 5.)
  109. 9951.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Advertising, Brochures, and Manuals [9950 - 9955] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. )

    Verify source ↗

    Vehicle manufacturers must disclose in the owner’s manual if a covered vehicle has recording devices, and most others may not download, retrieve, or release the recorded data except in listed situations.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Advertising, Brochures, and Manuals [9950 - 9955] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## 9951. (a) A manufacturer of a new motor vehicle sold or leased in this state that is equipped with one or more recording devices commonly referred to as “event data recorders (EDR)” or “sensing and diagnostic modules (SDM),” shall disclose that fact in the owner’s manual for the vehicle. (b) As used in this section, “recording device” means a device that is installed by the manufacturer of the vehicle and does one or more of the following, for the purpose of retrieving data after an accident: (1) Records how fast and in which direction the motor vehicle is traveling. (2) Records a history of where the motor vehicle travels. (3) Records steering performance. (4) Records brake performance, including, but not limited to, whether brakes were applied before an accident. (5) Records the driver’s seatbelt status. (6) Has the ability to transmit information concerning an accident in which the motor vehicle has been involved to a central communications system when an accident occurs. (c) Data described in subdivision (b) that is recorded on a recording device may not be downloaded or otherwise retrieved by a person other than the registered owner of the motor vehicle, except under one of the following circumstances: (1) The registered owner of the motor vehicle consents to the retrieval of the information. (2) In response to an order of a court having jurisdiction to issue the order. (3) For the purpose of improving motor vehicle safety, including for medical research of the human body’s reaction to motor vehicle accidents, and the identity of the registered owner or driver is not disclosed in connection with that retrieved data. The disclosure of the vehicle identification number (VIN) for the purpose of improving vehicle safety, including for medical research of the human body’s reaction to motor vehicle accidents, does not constitute the disclosure of the identity of the registered owner or driver. (4) The data is retrieved by a licensed new motor vehicle dealer, or by an automotive technician as defined in Section 9880.1 of the Business and Professions Code, for the purpose of diagnosing, servicing, or repairing the motor vehicle. (d) A person authorized to download or otherwise retrieve data from a recording device pursuant to paragraph (3) of subdivision (c), may not release that data, except to share the data among the motor vehicle safety and medical research communities to advance motor vehicle safety, and only if the identity of the registered owner or driver is not disclosed. (e) (1) If a motor vehicle is equipped with a recording device that is capable of recording or transmitting information as described in paragraph (2) or (6) of subdivision (b) and that capability is part of a subscription service, the fact that the information may be recorded or transmitted shall be disclosed in the subscription service agreement. (2) Subdivision (c) does not apply to subscription services meeting the requirements of paragraph (1). (f) This section applies to all motor vehicles manufactured on or after July 1, 2004. (Amended by Stats. 2004, Ch. 183, Sec. 350. Effective January 1, 2005.)
  110. 9952.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Advertising, Brochures, and Manuals [9950 - 9955] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. )

    Verify source ↗

    A person may not publish, sell, offer for sale, or give away an advertisement, brochure, owner’s manual, or sales manual that violates Section 9950; doing so is an infraction.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Advertising, Brochures, and Manuals [9950 - 9955] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## 9952. Any person who publishes, or causes to be published, or offers for sale or sells, or gives to another person, any advertisement, brochure, owner’s manual, or sales manual which violates Section 9950 is guilty of an infraction. (Amended by Stats. 1973, Ch. 73.)
  111. 9953.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Advertising, Brochures, and Manuals [9950 - 9955] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. )

    Verify source ↗

    Manufacturers covered by this section must warn in manuals or other written materials when a new motor vehicle cannot be operated with tire chains, and they must give franchised dealers an annual list of affected models before new model year vehicles are introduced.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Advertising, Brochures, and Manuals [9950 - 9955] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## 9953. Every manufacturer of a new motor vehicle sold in this state which, as equipped, may not be operated with tire chains shall do both of the following: (a) Indicate that fact in the owner’s manual for the vehicle or other written material provided by the manufacturer regarding the vehicle. (b) Provide each of its franchised new motor vehicle dealers in this state with a list of the affected vehicle models on an annual basis and prior to the manufacturer’s introduction of its new model year vehicles. The list shall include sufficient information, including information regarding tire sizes where necessary, to allow the selling dealer to determine when disclosure is required pursuant to Section 11713.6. (Amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 452, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 1996.)
  112. 9954.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Advertising, Brochures, and Manuals [9950 - 9955] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section requires vehicle manufacturers to give registered locksmiths limited access to key-code information for qualifying vehicles, and it sets verification, recordkeeping, and disclosure steps for locksmiths and manufacturers.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Advertising, Brochures, and Manuals [9950 - 9955] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## 9954. (a) This section applies only to new vehicles sold or leased in this state on or after January 1, 2008, except as provided in subdivision (d) or (e). (b) A motor vehicle manufacturer of a motor vehicle sold or leased in this state shall provide the means whereby the registered owner of that motor vehicle, through a registered locksmith, can access the information, and only that information, that is necessary to permit the production of a replacement key or other functionally similar device by the registered locksmith that will allow the registered vehicle’s owner to enter, start, and operate his or her vehicle. The means to access this information shall be available by telephone or electronically 24 hours a day and seven days a week, as follows: (1) When a registered locksmith is requested by the motor vehicle’s registered owner or the registered owner’s family member, to produce a replacement key or other functionally similar device that will allow the vehicle to be entered, started, and operated, and the information is needed from the vehicle manufacturer in order to produce the requested key or other functionally similar device, in addition to the requirement in Section 466.6 of the Penal Code, the registered locksmith shall visually verify the identity of the requesting party through that party’s driver’s license; shall visually verify that the registration of the vehicle matches the requesting party’s identity and address (or last name and address if the requesting party is a family member of the registered owner); and shall visually verify that the vehicle identification number of the vehicle matches with the vehicle identification number on the registration. Upon satisfactory verification of all three requirements, the registered locksmith shall sign an affidavit that he or she has visually verified the information and file the affidavit along with, and for the same time period as, the work order required by Section 466.6 of the Penal Code, and proceed to access the needed information from the vehicle manufacturer. (2) Upon completing the services, the registered locksmith shall give any key code information obtained from the vehicle manufacturer to the registered owner, or if applicable, the owner’s family member, and shall destroy all information accessed from the vehicle manufacturer in his or her possession. (3) Except in cases of fraud or misappropriation, a registered locksmith who follows these procedures shall incur no liability for theft of the vehicle related to the locksmith’s production of a replacement key or functionally similar device that will allow the vehicle to be entered, started, and operated. (4) When a vehicle manufacturer receives a request from a registered locksmith for information to enable the locksmith to produce a replacement key or other functionally similar device that will allow the vehicle to be entered, started, and operated, and that request is made at the behest of the vehicle’s registered owner or the registered owner’s family member, the vehicle manufacturer shall require the registered locksmith to confirm the locksmith’s registration with the manufacturer’s registry; provide the security password issued by the manufacturer; and comply with any other reasonable authentication procedure. The manufacturer shall also require the registered locksmith to confirm the locksmith’s visual identity and vehicle verifications, pursuant to paragraph (1). Upon satisfactory verification of these requirements, and upon presentation of the vehicle identification number and model number, the vehicle manufacturer shall provide to the registered locksmith, for the vehicle identified by the vehicle identification number and model number, the information necessary to enable production of a replacement key or other functionally similar device that allows the vehicle to be entered, started, and operated. (5) A motor vehicle manufacturer subject to this section shall retain and make the information available in accordance with this section for at least 25 years from the date of manufacture. (6) A vehicle manufacturer that follows these procedures shall incur no liability for theft of the vehicle related to furnishing the information to a registered locksmith for the production of a replacement key or functionally similar device that will allow the vehicle to be entered, started, and operated. (c) For purposes of this section the following definitions apply: (1) “Information” includes, but is not limited to, the vehicle’s key code and, if applicable, immobilizer or access code, and its successor technology and terminology. (2) “Motor vehicle” is a passenger vehicle as defined in Section 465 and pickup truck as defined in Section 471, and does not include a housecar, a motorcycle, or other two-wheeled motor vehicle. (3) A “registered locksmith” means a locksmith licensed and bonded in California that has registered with a motor vehicle manufacturer, and has been issued a registry number and security password by the manufacturer. (4) A registered owner, as defined in Section 505, also includes a lessee of the vehicle when the lessee’s name appears on the vehicle registration. (d) (1) This section does not apply to a vehicle line of a motor vehicle manufacturer that on January 1, 2006, does not provide for the production of a replacement key or other functionally similar device that allows the vehicle to be entered, started, and operated, by anyone other than the vehicle manufacturer itself and only itself, provided that the vehicle manufacturer operates a telephone or electronic request line 24 hours a day and seven days a week, and upon a request of the registered owner or family member of the registered owner of the vehicle, a replacement key or other functionally similar device that will allow the vehicle to be entered, started, and operated, is furnished to the registered owner at a reasonable cost within one day of the request or via the next overnight delivery. (2) If subsequent to January 1, 2008, a vehicle line of the manufacturer exempted by this subdivision provides for the production of a replacement by anyone, other than the vehicle manufacturer itself, of a key or other functionally similar device that will allow the vehicle to be entered, started, and operated, this section shall apply to that vehicle line. (3) This subdivision shall remain operative until January 1, 2013, and as of that date shall become inoperative, unless a later enacted statute, that is enacted before January 1, 2013, deletes or extends that date. (e) (1) This section does not apply to a vehicle line of a motor vehicle manufacturer that sold between 2,500 and 5,000 vehicles of that line in the prior calendar year in the state. (2) This subdivision shall remain operative until January 1, 2013, and as of that date shall become inoperative, unless a later enacted statute, that is enacted before January 1, 2013, deletes or extends that date. (f) This section shall not apply to a make that sold fewer than 2,500 vehicles in the prior calendar year in the state. (g) The duties imposed on a manufacturer pursuant to this section may be performed either by the manufacturer or by an agent through a contract. (h) The provisions of this section are severable. If any provision of this section or its application is held invalid, that invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications that can be given effect without the invalid provision or application. (Added by Stats. 2006, Ch. 433, Sec. 2. Effective January 1, 2007.)
  113. 9955.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Advertising, Brochures, and Manuals [9950 - 9955] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. )

    Verify source ↗

    A pocket bike manufacturer must put a sticker on the pocket bike saying it cannot be operated in listed places.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Advertising, Brochures, and Manuals [9950 - 9955] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## 9955. (a) A manufacturer of a pocket bike shall affix on the pocket bike a sticker with a disclosure stating that the device is prohibited from being operated on a sidewalk, roadway, or any part of a highway, or on a bikeway, bicycle path or trail, equestrian trail, hiking or recreational trail, or on public lands open to off-highway motor vehicle use. (b) The disclosure required under subdivision (a) shall meet both of the following requirements: (1) Be printed in not less than 14-point boldface type on a sticker that contains only the disclosure. (2) Include the following statement: (Added by Stats. 2005, Ch. 323, Sec. 2. Effective January 1, 2006.)
  114. 9975.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Manufacturer’s Responsibility for Safety Defects [9975- 9975.] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 954. )

    Verify source ↗

    A vehicle manufacturer that notifies the registered owner about a safety-related defect must fix it without charging the owner, or choose to reimburse the repair cost.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Manufacturer’s Responsibility for Safety Defects [9975- 9975.] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 954. ) ## 9975. Every manufacturer of a motor vehicle who furnishes notification to the registered owner of the motor vehicle of any defect in the motor vehicle or motor vehicle equipment which relates to motor vehicle safety, shall, notwithstanding any limitation in any warranty relating to the motor vehicle, correct such defect without charge to the registered owner of the vehicle or, at the manufacturer’s election, reimburse the registered owner for the cost of making such correction. The manufacturer of such motor vehicle shall not be liable for the cost of such correction if the registered owner of the motor vehicle does not seek to have the correction made within 45 days after receipt of the notification or within the warranty period of the motor vehicle, whichever is longer. (Added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 954.)
  115. 9980.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Engine Manufacturers [9980 - 9982] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1984, Ch. 1264, Sec. 1. )

    Verify source ↗

    If the engine manufacturer is different from the vehicle manufacturer, the new motor vehicle must be labeled as required by Section 9981.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Engine Manufacturers [9980 - 9982] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1984, Ch. 1264, Sec. 1. ) ## 9980. If the manufacturer of the engine of a new motor vehicle is different from the manufacturer of the vehicle, the vehicle shall be labeled as required by Section 9981. For purposes of this chapter, the manufacturer of a motor vehicle engine is different from the vehicle manufacturer if a majority of parts, or most of the work of assembly, of the engine is provided by a person other than the vehicle manufacturer or a subsidiary or affiliate of the vehicle manufacturer. For purposes of this chapter, an “affiliate” is an entity that directly, or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, controls or is controlled by, or is under common control with, the manufacturer of the vehicle. (Amended by Stats. 2000, Ch. 135, Sec. 156. Effective January 1, 2001.)
  116. 9981.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Engine Manufacturers [9980 - 9982] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1984, Ch. 1264, Sec. 1. )

    Verify source ↗

    A vehicle manufacturer covered by Section 9980 must add a prominent label saying the engine may have been made by another manufacturer, and place that label by the relevant window sticker unless the engine maker is already disclosed in sales literature or the sales contract.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Engine Manufacturers [9980 - 9982] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1984, Ch. 1264, Sec. 1. ) ## 9981. The manufacturer of any vehicle subject to Section 9980 shall affix a prominent label to the vehicle stating that the engine in the vehicle may have been manufactured by another manufacturer. The label shall be located on or adjacent to the window sticker identifying the manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the vehicle or, if none, it shall be located on or adjacent to the window sticker identifying the equipment provided with the vehicle. This label, however, is not required if the manufacturer of the engine contained in the vehicle is disclosed in sales literature or is noted in the sales contract. (Added by Stats. 1984, Ch. 1264, Sec. 1.)
  117. 9982.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Engine Manufacturers [9980 - 9982] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1984, Ch. 1264, Sec. 1. )

    Verify source ↗

    This chapter applies only to new passenger vehicles and new motortrucks under 6,000 pounds, excluding housecars.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Engine Manufacturers [9980 - 9982] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1984, Ch. 1264, Sec. 1. ) ## 9982. This chapter applies only to new passenger vehicles and to new motortrucks with an unladen weight under 6,000 pounds, except housecars. (Added by Stats. 1984, Ch. 1264, Sec. 1.)
  118. 9990.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Disclosure of Damage [9990 - 9993] ( Chapter 4 added by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1373, Sec. 1. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section defines when damage to a motor vehicle counts as material.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Disclosure of Damage [9990 - 9993] ( Chapter 4 added by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1373, Sec. 1. ) ## 9990. For purposes of this chapter, damage sustained by a motor vehicle is material under any of the following circumstances: (a) The damage required repairs having a value, including parts and labor calculated at the repairer’s cost, exceeding 3 percent of the manufacturer’s suggested retail price of the vehicle or five hundred dollars ($500), whichever is greater. The replacement of damaged or stolen components, excluding the cost of repainting or refinishing those components, if replaced by the installation of new original manufacturer’s equipment, parts, or accessories that are bolted or otherwise attached as a unit to the vehicle, including, but not limited to, the hood, bumpers, fenders, mechanical parts, instrument panels, moldings, glass, tires, wheels, and electronic instruments, shall be excluded from the damage calculation, except that any damage having a cumulative repair or replacement value which exceeds 10 percent of the manufacturer’s suggested retail price of the vehicle shall be deemed material. (b) The damage was to the frame or drive train of the motor vehicle. (c) The damage occurred in connection with a theft of the entire vehicle. (d) The damage was to the suspension of the vehicle requiring repairs other than wheel balancing or alignment. (Added by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1373, Sec. 1.)
  119. 9991.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Disclosure of Damage [9990 - 9993] ( Chapter 4 added by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1373, Sec. 1. )

    Verify source ↗

    A dealer must disclose in writing any known material damage that was repaired on a new or previously unregistered motor vehicle before contract signing, or before delivery if the damage is not known earlier.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Disclosure of Damage [9990 - 9993] ( Chapter 4 added by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1373, Sec. 1. ) ## 9991. Every dealer shall disclose in writing to the purchaser of a new or previously unregistered motor vehicle, prior to entering into a contract for the vehicle or, if unknown at that time, prior to delivery of the vehicle, any material damage known by the dealer to have been sustained by the vehicle and subsequently repaired. (Added by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1373, Sec. 1.)
  120. 9992.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Disclosure of Damage [9990 - 9993] ( Chapter 4 added by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1373, Sec. 1. )

    Verify source ↗

    A dealer must disclose in writing any known unrepaired damage to a new or previously unregistered motor vehicle before the sale contract is made, or before delivery if the damage is not known then.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Disclosure of Damage [9990 - 9993] ( Chapter 4 added by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1373, Sec. 1. ) ## 9992. Every dealer shall disclose in writing to the purchaser of a new or previously unregistered motor vehicle, prior to entering into a contract for the vehicle or, if unknown at that time, prior to delivery of the vehicle, any damage, including, but not limited to, material damage, known by the dealer to have been sustained by the vehicle and not repaired. (Added by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1373, Sec. 1.)
  121. 9993.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Disclosure of Damage [9990 - 9993] ( Chapter 4 added by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1373, Sec. 1. )

    Verify source ↗

    A dealer must not answer a purchaser’s inquiry in a false or misleading way.

    ## Vehicle Code - VEH ## DIVISION 3.6. VEHICLE SALES [9950 - 9993] ( Division 3.6 added by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1246. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Disclosure of Damage [9990 - 9993] ( Chapter 4 added by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1373, Sec. 1. ) ## 9993. Nothing in this chapter permits any dealer to respond to the inquiry of a purchaser in any untrue or misleading manner. (Added by Stats. 1990, Ch. 1373, Sec. 1.)

Provision text is displayed from LexChat’s stored statute record. Use the official source links to verify amendments, commencement, and current legal force.

LexChat organizes source-backed legal information for research. Verify amendments, commencement, and current legal force with the official publisher before relying on it.