How do I transfer my title/registration from WA to CA?

Question

My grandfather bought me my car in California in 1997. It is a 1998 Beetle. He gifted the car to my father in 1999, when I turned 16. My father is currently the registered owner of the car in Washington. I am now moving back to California and want to register the car under my name.

Do I have to pay taxes on the car when I transfer the title to my name? Any ideas how to avoid the taxes?

Answer 1

When direct family members gift a vehicle to each other it usually is not a taxable event  if a the donater certifies that the transfer is a gift.

When I transferred the title of a vehicle registered in California from my name to my son, there was not tax involved.

Answer 2

Check with your local DMV.