Buying Motorcycle in Los Angeles

The state of California due to its weather has become a heaven for those who like riding a motorcycle. According to the 2011 State of California’s statistics there were 818,650 registered motorcycles in the state. Since Los Angeles is the largest and the most populous city in California therefore it is home to the majority of these motorcycles. Whether motorcycles are bought from dealers or private parties, they need to be registered. Motorcycles which are not registered cannot be legally driven on the state’s roads and highways.

Registration requirements in Los Angeles are almost the same for the cars as for the motorcycles. If the motorcycle is bought from a licensed California dealer, irrespective of the fact whether it is new or used, it is the dealer who does the paper work for its registration and transfer of title. It is he/she, who submits the required documents and fees with the DMV and gives his/her customer a temporary operating authority in the meanwhile. The new owner of the motorcycle will get the registration card, Certificate of Title, stickers and license plates within 6-8 weeks after the purchase date.
If the motorcycle is bought from a private party then the new owner must transfer the ownership in his/her name within 10 days. He/she will need to submit the following documents with the DMV:

• DMV fees
• Endorsed and completed Certificate of Title or Application for Duplicate Title
• Odometer Mileage Disclosure Statement
• Use tax payment

If you are the seller, you, too, must notify the sale to the DMV within 5 days. You should further complete the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (REG 138) form and submit it with the DMV. The form can be obtained online from DMV’s website or by calling the DMV at 1-800-777-0133. It is in your own interest to submit the form to absolve yourself from any wrongdoings of the new owner of your previous motorcycle.

It is fun to ride your motorcycle in California. But the state’s laws must be followed for a safe ride.