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Quizzes > General Knowledge & Mixed

DMV 5-Day Notice Quiz: What to Do After You Sell Your Car

Quick, free quiz on how to notify DMV within 5 days. Instant results.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Odedra DevUpdated Aug 28, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art illustration of DMV quiz theme on dark blue background with drivers license icons, road sign cutouts, paperwork.

This quiz helps you check what to do after selling a car, including the DMV 5-day notice and release of liability. Practice quick questions on signs, forms, and timelines, then see where you need a refresher. For more prep, take a road rules quiz or a DMV online quiz.

After selling or transferring your vehicle in California, within how many days must you notify the DMV?
15 days
30 days
5 days
10 days
California law requires sellers to submit a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability within 5 days of sale to avoid liability for parking or collisions after the sale. This notifies the DMV that the vehicle has a new owner. Failing to file can result in fines or citations.
Which form is used to notify the DMV when you sell your vehicle?
Vehicle/Vessel Transfer Form
Statement of Facts
Application for Title
Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability
The Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (REG 138) is the official form used in California to inform the DMV when a vehicle is sold or transferred. This form protects you from future liability. It must be filed within 5 days of transfer.
If you fail to submit the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability within 5 days, what could happen?
Your license is suspended automatically
The DMV will repossess your vehicle
You must obtain a new title
You remain liable for tickets or collisions after sale
Without timely submission, the DMV will continue to list you as the owner of record, making you responsible for parking violations or accidents. You could be fined if citations are issued. Filing the notice releases you from future liability.
You moved within California. Within how many days must you notify the DMV of your new address?
5 days
10 days
60 days
30 days
California Vehicle Code requires drivers to notify the DMV of an address change within 10 days. The change applies to both driver licenses and vehicle registrations. You can update online or by mail.
What must you do when you see a yield sign?
Slow down and yield to oncoming traffic
Maintain speed and merge
Stop regardless of traffic
Accelerate into intersection
A yield sign requires drivers to slow down and yield the right-of-way to vehicles or pedestrians in or approaching the intersection. You may proceed without stopping only when it's safe. Disregarding yield signs can lead to collisions.
What does a red octagon traffic sign indicate?
Yield
Warning
Stop
Do not enter
The eight-sided red sign universally means 'Stop.' Drivers must come to a complete halt at the marked line or before entering the crosswalk or intersection. It helps prevent collisions at intersections.
A flashing red traffic light at an intersection means:
Proceed with caution without stopping
Yield only
Traffic signal malfunction
Stop before proceeding
A flashing red light requires you to stop completely, just like a stop sign, and proceed when safe. It indicates you have the right-of-way only after stopping. This rule maintains safety at intersections.
When driving in fog, which lights should you use?
Hazard lights
Parking lights
Low-beam headlights
High-beam headlights
Low-beam headlights reduce glare and improve visibility in fog. High beams reflect off fog droplets, making it harder to see. Proper lighting helps you see road edges and other vehicles.
If you decide to become a California resident, within how many days must you apply for a CA driver license?
10 days
60 days
30 days
90 days
New residents must obtain a California driver license within 10 days of establishing residency. This ensures compliance with state law. Failing to do so could result in citations.
When a school bus stops with red lights flashing on an undivided highway, what must you do?
Stop until the lights go off
Maintain speed if two lanes each way
Slow down and pass carefully
Honk before passing
On undivided roads, all traffic in both directions must stop for a school bus that is loading or unloading children. This law protects students entering or leaving the bus. Violations carry steep fines and points.
When must you notify the DMV of a name change?
Immediately
Within 30 days
Within 10 days
Within 5 days
California law requires drivers to notify the DMV of a name change within 10 days. You must present legal proof such as a marriage certificate or court order. The update applies to driver licenses and IDs.
What does a double solid yellow line in the center of the road mean?
Passing allowed only left
Center turn lane
No passing in either direction
Passing allowed both directions
Double solid yellow lines indicate that passing is prohibited for traffic in both directions. They mark areas where visibility is limited or passing would be unsafe. Drivers must stay in their lane.
If you sell your vehicle but do not submit the Release of Liability form, how long can you remain financially responsible for violations?
30 days after sale
One year after sale
Until new owner registers
Indefinitely until filed
Without filing the Notice of Transfer, you remain the owner of record and liable for any traffic violations or tolls indefinitely. The DMV continues to associate citations with the vehicle's registered owner. Filing releases you from liability.
When completing the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability, which information about the buyer is required?
Name and address
Driver license expiry
Social Security number
Insurance agent name
The form requires the new owner's name and address to ensure the DMV updates ownership records accurately. Social Security numbers and insurance details are not requested. Accurate buyer information prevents future liability.
If you are involved in an accident that causes more than $1,000 in damage, within how many days must you report it to the DMV?
20 days
30 days
10 days
5 days
California law requires drivers to file a Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California (SR-1) within 10 days if the damage exceeds $1,000 or if there are injuries. This report helps the DMV track accident histories. Failure to report can result in license suspension.
What happens if you remove your license plates before selling your vehicle without notifying the DMV?
Nothing - plates stay with you
Plates become invalid automatically
You must surrender plates to DMV
Buyer must get new plates immediately
If you remove plates prior to sale, you must surrender them to the DMV or transfer them to another vehicle. Plates in California stay with the vehicle unless removed by law or transferred. Failure to surrender can lead to fines.
If you allow someone else to use your license plates and they commit a traffic violation, you can be cited because:
No law covers that
You're the registered owner
They must show your ID
They need your signature
Under CA law, the registered owner is responsible for violations associated with their plates. Lending plates without transfer keeps liability with the owner. To avoid penalties, complete a transfer or release.
Within how many days must a new resident register a vehicle in California?
20 days
5 days
30 days
10 days
New residents must register vehicles within 20 days of establishing residency to comply with California law. Registration requires title, proof of insurance, and payment of fees. Late registration can incur penalties.
If your vehicle is declared a total loss by an insurance company, what must you do regarding DMV notification?
Notify DMV within 10 days
No notification needed
Wait until next renewal
Notify DMV within 5 days
When a vehicle is deemed a total loss, you must notify the DMV within 10 days so they can update the record and title status. This prevents confusion over ownership and liability. Failure to report may lead to fees.
What is the penalty for not reporting a change of address on your driver license within the required period?
Arrest warrant
Vehicle impound
License suspension
Possible fine and invalid mail notices
Failing to update your address can result in missed renewal notices and fines. However, immediate suspension usually requires other violations. Keeping DMV records current avoids administrative penalties.
Which of the following must you include when submitting a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability?
Insurance policy number
Date of sale
Vehicle inspection report
Photos of damage
The Notice of Transfer form requires the date the vehicle was sold or transferred to establish when your liability ends. Inspection reports or insurance numbers are not required. Accurate sales dates protect you from post-sale violations.
If you lease a vehicle, who is responsible for notifying the DMV of a title transfer?
Lessor (leasing company)
DMV automatically
Insurance company
Lessee (you)
In a lease, the lessor retains ownership and handles title transfers. The lessee must return the vehicle but does not file release paperwork. The leasing company submits necessary DMV forms.
When completing the Notice of Transfer, why is the vehicle's odometer reading required?
To prevent odometer fraud
It's optional
To calculate taxes
To set registration fees
Odometer readings protect buyers from tampered mileage claims. Recording the reading during transfer documents the true mileage at sale. This helps enforce federal odometer laws.
If you sell multiple vehicles within a 12-month period without a dealer license, how soon must you file a Notice of Transfer for each sale?
No requirement if private sale
30 days total
5 days each
10 days each
Even if you sell many vehicles, each private sale requires a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability within 5 days to avoid dealer licensing requirements. This prevents using multiple sales to circumvent regulations. Each transaction is treated individually.
Under what condition can you report your vehicle's non-use status and avoid renewal fees?
Notify DMV within 5 days of non-use
Return plates to CHP
Switch to antique status
File Planned Non-Operation (PNO) by registration due date
Filing a Planned Non-Operation (PNO) certificate by the registration expiration date allows you to avoid renewal fees when you won't use the vehicle on public roads. You can file online or by mail. Missing the deadline results in late fees.
If you receive a citation for a parking violation after selling your car, what is the first document the DMV will request?
Transfer and Release of Liability form
Vehicle title
Registration renewal notice
Insurance card
The DMV checks the Release of Liability to confirm whether you still owned the vehicle when the violation occurred. If you filed it timely, you aren't liable. Lacking proof, they may hold you responsible.
Which of these changes does NOT require a separate notice to the DMV?
Name change
Vehicle transfer
Change of insurance policy
Change of address
Insurance changes are reported to your insurer, not directly to the DMV. Address, name, and vehicle transfers all require notices to update DMV records. Keeping licensing records accurate is mandatory.
When must a lienholder notify the DMV of its interest in a vehicle?
When lien is recorded on title
When borrower defaults
Within 5 days of loan payoff
No notification required
A lienholder's interest is recorded when the lien appears on the certificate of title, notifying the DMV. This protects the lender's financial interest. No separate timeframe after payoff is mandated.
Which DMV publication details the procedures for reporting vehicle theft or total loss?
California Drivers Handbook
CDL Driver Handbook
Traffic Violator Handbook
Vehicle/Vessel Title Manual
The Vehicle/Vessel Title Manual provides detailed procedures for reporting theft and total loss, including required forms and timeframes. The Drivers Handbook covers road rules, not title issues. This manual is specific to titling and registration.
If you fail to file a SR-1 accident report within 10 days, what action can the DMV take?
Revoke vehicle registration
Issue a warrant
Suspend your license
Impound your vehicle
Not filing the required SR-1 can lead the DMV to suspend your driving privilege until you comply. This ensures accident data is accurately recorded. It's a measure to enforce reporting laws.
When must an out-of-state vehicle be smog checked for California registration?
No smog test required
Before completing registration
Within 5 days of arrival
At first renewal
Out-of-state vehicles must pass a California smog inspection before the DMV will register them. This ensures emissions standards compliance. The test is required prior to titling and registration.
Which form do you use to file for Planned Non-Operation status online?
PNO e-Form online
REG 138 Release of Liability
SR-1 accident report
Vehicle/Vessel Transfer Form
The Planned Non-Operation (PNO) e-Form allows owners to declare their vehicle non-operational and skip renewal fees. It's available through the DMV's online services. Other forms serve different purposes.
If a vehicle is impounded and unreleased for 30 days, what must the impounding agency do regarding the DMV?
Notify DMV of impound
Nothing - the DMV is notified by owner
Destroy license plates
Sell the vehicle at auction
Impounding agencies must notify the DMV when a vehicle has been impounded for over 30 days. This ensures DMV records reflect impound status and aids in title resolution. Timely notification prevents lien complications.
What is the minimum liability insurance coverage required to register a vehicle in California?
$20,000 bodily injury per person/$40,000 per accident/$10,000 property damage
$25,000/$50,000/$10,000
$15,000 bodily injury per person/$30,000 per accident/$5,000 property damage
$10,000 bodily injury per person/$20,000 per accident/$3,000 property damage
California law mandates minimum liability of 15/30/5 for bodily injury and property damage. These minimums are required to protect other road users. Proof of insurance is needed to complete registration.
Under California law, within how many days must a vehicle owner report a burn or theft to the DMV after reporting to law enforcement?
30 days
10 days
5 days
No separate report required
After filing a police report for theft or total loss, owners must notify the DMV within 10 days to update title status. This separate report ensures the DMV record reflects the vehicle's condition. Failing to report can result in fees or fines.
If a notice of transfer is filed late, what is the maximum civil penalty?
$500
$100
$50
$200
Filing the Notice of Transfer late may result in a civil penalty up to $100 under Vehicle Code Section 5607. This encourages timely reporting of ownership changes. Penalties can be assessed per violation.
Which Vehicle Code section mandates release of liability notification within 5 days?
4000
5607
14601
12500
Vehicle Code Section 5607 requires vehicle owners to notify the DMV within 5 days of transferring or selling a vehicle. This code protects former owners from liability. Other sections address registration and driving privileges.
After filing a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability, how soon should you expect acknowledgment from the DMV?
30 days
Immediately online; 7 - 10 days by mail
No acknowledgment is provided
Within 24 hours
Online submissions are acknowledged instantly, while mailed forms typically yield a confirmation within 7 - 10 business days. This acknowledgment serves as proof of release. Without it, you may need to follow up.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Understand DMV Notification Requirements -

    Learn when you must notify the DMV within 5 days if you move and how to complete the state's address change process correctly.

  2. Analyze Priority Traffic Rules -

    Determine which of the following must you obey over the others when faced with multiple traffic controls or emergency vehicles.

  3. Recognize Red and White Road Signs -

    Interpret the meaning behind "this red and white sign means you should" and apply the correct driving response.

  4. Apply Address Change Procedures -

    Practice how to notify the DMV within 5 days after relocating, ensuring you meet legal obligations promptly.

  5. Recall Key Driving Regulations -

    Test your memory on essential rules like notifying the DMV and yielding to right-of-way situations through interactive questions.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Change of Address Notification -

    You must notify the DMV within 5 days if you move to a new residence to keep your records current and avoid penalties. Use the "5-Day Move" mnemonic by writing "5" next to your new street name in your planner. This rule aligns with official state DMV guidelines to ensure all license and registration notices reach you promptly.

  2. Vehicle Transfer Reporting -

    When you sell or transfer a vehicle, you must report the change to the DMV within 5 days to release liability and prevent unexpected tickets. Fill out the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability form online or by mail and keep a copy for your records. According to the California DMV, timely reporting protects both buyer and seller by updating the vehicle's official ownership status.

  3. Traffic Control Hierarchy -

    Always obey a police officer's directions over traffic lights, then traffic signals, then signs, then pavement markings. Remember the mnemonic "O.L.S.S.": Officer, Lights, Signs, Stripes. This order, endorsed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), prevents confusion in complex traffic situations.

  4. Red and White Regulatory Signs -

    Red and white signs like STOP (octagon) and YIELD (inverted triangle) are regulatory and must be obeyed exactly as posted. For instance, at a STOP sign you must come to a full halt behind the white line - no rolling stops. The MUTCD (Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices) mandates these colors to signal prohibitions and requirements.

  5. Wrong Way Sign Recognition -

    A red and white "WRONG WAY" sign indicates you're traveling against traffic flow and must safely turn around immediately. Treat this sign as an emergency warning - find the nearest safe spot to reverse direction without blocking traffic. Studies from university transportation departments show prompt compliance greatly reduces head-on collision risk.

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