The cost to register a car in California in 2025 generally ranges from about $250 to $480 , depending on several factors such as the vehicle's age, value, type, and location. The registration cost includes several fees like a base registration fee, California Highway Patrol (CHP) fee, Vehicle License Fee (VLF) that is 0.65% of the vehicle's value, Transportation Improvement Fee (TIF) based on vehicle value, county or district fees, and a smog abatement fee if applicable. Electric vehicles are exempt from the smog fee, which lowers their registration cost. Typical fees in 2025:
- Registration Fee: Around $60-$65
- CHP Fee: About $28
- VLF: 0.65% of vehicle value
- TIF: $25 to $175 depending on vehicle value
- County/District Fees: $7 to over $50 depending on location
- Smog Abatement Fee: $25 (waived for EVs and some hybrids)
- Late fees may apply if registration is overdue
Examples of estimated total registration costs in 2025:
- New gasoline sedan: $330 – $480
- Used car under 5 years old: $250 – $400
- Electric vehicle: $190 – $300
- Out-of-state vehicle first-time registration: $350 – $600
The exact fee depends on specific details like vehicle purchase price, type, age, and county of residence. California also has a DMV fee calculator to estimate fees precisely based on individual vehicle information.
