California Registration Fees
Quick answer
Registration includes a value-based Vehicle License Fee and a Transportation Improvement Fee ranging from $25 to $175 based on vehicle value. California offers no grace period for late renewal.
Agency
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Transportation Improvement Fee (TIF)
$25 to $175 depending on vehicle value
Online option
In person only
Find a verified place to registration fees
DMV San Francisco Field Office
1377 Fell St, San Francisco 94117
800-777-0133
DMV San Diego Field Office
3960 Normal St, San Diego 92103
800-777-0133
DMV Sacramento Field Office
4700 Broadway, Sacramento 95820
800-777-0133
DMV Los Angeles Field Office
3615 S Hope Street, Los Angeles 90007
800-777-0133
Before you start
- No documents are required to view this page. See Vehicle Registration for the documents needed to complete a transaction.
Cost
Transportation Improvement Fee (TIF)
range$25 to $175 depending on vehicle value
Value tiers: $0-4,999 = $25, $5,000-24,999 = $50, $25,000-34,999 = $100, $35,000-59,999 = $150, $60,000+ = $175
How it works
- Fees are paid to the DMV at the time of registration or renewal.
Online option
Not available online
This requires an in-person visit; see the in-person section below.
In person
DMV does not offer a grace period for paying annual registration fees.
Common situations
Verified August 18, 2026, source: California Department of Motor Vehicles