Do I Have to Register My Car In CA If I'm Here Temporarily?

If you are attending college (or any other higher education institute) in California, and paying tuition in California for that education, California considers you to be a resident of this State.

Being a California resident requires that any vehicle you operate in the State be registered with the California Department of Motor Vehicles; even though you'll ultimately be moving back to your home; once your schooling is finished.

From the information you've provided, we have to assume you're vehicle will require California registration. The DMV requires residents register their vehicles within 20 days of moving here, being gainfully employed in California, attending school/college or under other circumstance where a vehicle owner is considered to be a California resident.

The two requirements when registering an out-of-state vehicle in California (for the first time) is a VIN Verification and California emissions inspection (smog check).

A VIN verification is the simple process of matching up the vehicle's identification number (on the chassis; public VIN) with that of the VIN identified on its out-of-state title, but it can't be done by the vehicle's owner. A VIN verification can only be obtained at a California DMV office, California Highway Patrol Station or certified California VIN verification facility, and with appointment.

Related Material

Online Vehicle Title Transfer (CA-to-CA)
California Title Transfer Quick Guide
California Smog Check Requirements
Commonly Used DMV Forms