Release of liability

The Release of Liability is a form that vehicle owners must complete and submit to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) when selling, donating, or transferring ownership of a vehicle. The form notifies the DMV that the owner is no longer responsible for the vehicle as of the date of sale, donation, or transfer. The Release of Liability can be completed online or via a paper form that can be mailed. The DMV recommends that owners submit the form as soon as possible after the vehicle is sold, donated, or transferred to avoid future issues such as fines or incorrect fees.