California DMV Power of Attorney Guide: Form REG 260 & REG 262

In California, if you need to handle vehicle transactions for a family member, friend, or buyer who cannot be present, you generally need a Power of Attorney (POA).

However, California is stricter than many other states. You cannot just use a generic online legal form. You must use the specific DMV-approved documents, and choosing the wrong one can get your application rejected immediately.

This guide explains the difference between the downloadable REG 260 and the restricted REG 262, and explains exactly how to use them.

The Golden Rule: Which Form Do You Need?

Before you print anything, you must determine if you are transferring the vehicle’s mileage (odometer reading).

Form Name	Power of Attorney	Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment
Form Number	REG 260	REG 262
Downloadable?	Yes (Online PDF)	No (Secure paper only)
Best For…	Registration renewals, title transfers where the owner has the title, or clearing tickets.	Selling a vehicle where the title is missing and an odometer disclosure is legally required.
Odometer Info?	No	Yes

Summary: If you have the title and just need to sign for the owner, use REG 260. If the title is missing and you are selling the car, you likely need REG 262 because you must legally certify the mileage on a secure document.

Form 1: Limited Power of Attorney (REG 260)

This is the standard form for most non-sale situations or simple transfers. It grants an “attorney-in-fact” (you) the permission to sign documents for the vehicle owner.

Key Requirements

• No Notary Needed: Unlike general legal POAs, the specific REG 260 form usually does not need to be notarized.
• Specific to One Vehicle: You must list the VIN. This form does not grant authority over the person’s finances, only this specific car/vessel.
• Original Signature: The DMV requires the wet-ink signature of the owner. Do not bring a photocopy of the signed form.

How to Fill It Out

1. Download: Get the official Form REG 260 (PDF) from the CA DMV website.
2. Vehicle Description: Enter the VIN (Vehicle ID Number), License Plate, Make, and Year.
3. Appoint the Attorney-in-Fact: Print the full legal name of the person acting as the agent (e.g., you).
4. Owner’s Signature: The vehicle owner must sign and date the form in ink.

Form 2: Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment (REG 262)

This is a “Secure” document printed on special security paper that prevents tampering. It combines a Power of Attorney, Bill of Sale, and Odometer Disclosure into one.

When is it Required?

You must use REG 262 if:

• You are selling/transferring a vehicle.
• The original title is missing or unavailable.
• AND the vehicle is subject to odometer disclosure (generally vehicles 2011 or newer, though rules vary).

How to Get It

Because it is printed on security paper, you cannot download this form.

1. Visit a DMV Office: You can pick one up in person.
2. Call the DMV: Call 1-800-777-0133 to have it mailed (takes time).
3. Visit a Licensed Dealer/Tag Agency: They often have stacks of these forms.

What to Bring to the California DMV

To ensure your visit is successful, bring the following:

• The Signed POA: Original REG 260 or REG 262.
• Identification: Your valid Driver’s License or ID (to prove you are the Attorney-in-Fact).
• Ownership Documents: The California Certificate of Title (Pink Slip) or an Application for Duplicate Title (REG 227).
• Payment: Cash, Debit/Credit Card, or Check for transfer fees and use tax.

Conclusion

For most simple tasks like renewing registration for a spouse or signing a title transfer where you have the physical title, the downloadable REG 260 is perfect. It’s free, simple, and doesn’t require a notary. However, if you are selling a car without a title and need to disclose mileage, do not waste time printing forms—go straight to the DMV to pick up the secure REG 262.