According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, "In a transfer without probate, the decedent's heir may transfer title or interest of the vehicle if the estate is not going through probate or awaiting probate of a will. " However there are things you must do:
"Affidavit for Transfer Without Probate (REG 5) may be completed without Letters of Administration, or Testamentary Letters. Transfer Without Probate may be done only for vehicles registered in California.
What You Will Need to Do
To transfer vehicle ownership, the following items must be submitted to the Department of Motor Vehicles:
- California Certificate of Title.
- Affidavit for Transfer Without Probate (REG 5).
- Statement of Facts (REG 256) complete the applicable sections.
- Odometer Disclosure Statement.
- The transfer fee.
An additional transfer fee will be due if the vehicle is to be registered to other than the heir. Registration fees due will depend on the registration status of the vehicle."
Read about the entire process here.
Legal Action Workshop offers California Probabte Assistance.