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California DMV registration and late fees

Source: California Auto Help (californiaautohelp.com), part of the Local Help Stations network (localhelpstations.com). Last updated November 2, 2026.

Late penalties

• DMV does not offer a grace period. Pay on or before the expiration date on the registration card.
• Late 1 to 10 days: 10% of the vehicle license fee (and weight fee if any), plus $10 registration late fee and $10 CHP late fee.
• Late 11 to 30 days: 20% of VLF (and weight fee), plus $15 registration and $15 CHP.
• Late 31 days to one year: 60% of VLF (and weight fee), plus $30 registration and $30 CHP.
• Late more than one year up to two years: 80% of VLF (and weight fee), plus $50 registration and $50 CHP.
• Late more than two years: 160% of VLF (and weight fee), plus $100 registration and $100 CHP.

(source: California Department of Motor Vehicles)

On this site: How do I renew California vehicle registration? · New to California: how soon must I register my vehicle? · Buying or selling a car in California: title and NRL rules · California Smog Check: who needs it and what it costs · California auto repair estimate rules · California Lemon Law (Tanner Consumer Protection Act) · My car was towed in California. What are my rights? · California DMV registration and late fees · How to complain about a California auto repair shop · California Smog Check Consumer Assistance Program · Cities · FAQ · Sources

Sources

• California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV): Registration Fees (checked November 2, 2026)

Last updated: November 2, 2026