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Quick question - how did the title end up in the wrong name in the first place? Might affect the process depending on the situation.
@Nolan Carter That s'really helpful info! I didn t'even know there were specific forms for inherited vehicles. I ll'definitely look into the affidavit of heirship too. This whole process is more complicated than I thought, but at least now I have a better roadmap. Thanks everyone for all the advice!
@Sebastián Stevens Sorry for your loss. Since it s'an inherited vehicle, you ll'definitely need the death certificate like others mentioned. Also, check if your grandpa had the title in his possession - if it s'a clear title, the process might be easier. If there was a lien or the title is missing, that adds extra steps. The DMV inheritance process can be tricky, but they deal with it all the time so they should be able to guide you through it.
Hey OP, just a heads up - some states are offering extensions on expiring licenses due to the backlog from COVID. Might be worth checking if that applies in your area!
I feel for you! I went through the exact same thing last year. Here's what worked for me: try refreshing the appointment page every few hours throughout the day - I noticed new slots would randomly pop up when people cancelled. Also, consider looking at AAA offices if you're a member - they can do some DMV services and usually have way shorter waits. And definitely call the DMV first thing in the morning (like 8 AM sharp) - that's when I finally got through to someone who helped me find a cancellation slot. Don't give up! 🙏
Definitely call them ASAP! I had the exact same thing happen to me a few months ago. The DMV agent was actually really helpful - she found my submission in their system even though I never got a confirmation email. Turns out their email system was having issues that day. She was able to give me a reference number over the phone which gave me peace of mind. Just have your VIN and the buyer's info ready when you call!
Same thing happened to me! The DMV website is notorious for this. I'd suggest calling the automated phone line first (1-800-777-0133) before waiting for a live agent - sometimes you can check the status of your submission by entering your info. If that doesn't work, definitely call and speak to someone. Also, make sure you have the sale date, buyer's name, and their address handy since they'll ask for all that info to verify. Don't stress too much - even if it didn't go through, you can always resubmit!
Pro tip: if you cant get through on the main line, try calling a different DMV office and ask them to transfer you. Sometimes works like a charm 😉
Ivanna St. Pierre
This thread is so helpful! I'm bookmarking it for future reference. One more tip that might help - if you're still within the 5-day window, you could also try going to a DMV kiosk (they're usually at grocery stores or malls). Sometimes those are less buggy than the main website and you can complete the transfer there. They print out a receipt on the spot so you get immediate confirmation. Also, if you do end up having to call or visit in person, write down the name of whoever helps you and get a case number if possible. That way if anything comes up later, you have a record of your efforts to resolve it. The DMV can be frustrating but this community always has great solutions! 💪
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Diego Flores
•Great point about the DMV kiosks! I totally forgot those existed. There's actually one at my local Safeway that I've walked past a million times. That might be way easier than dealing with the phone system or waiting at the main office. And you're absolutely right about getting names and case numbers - I learned that lesson the hard way with other government agencies. Documentation is everything! This whole thread has been a goldmine of practical advice. Thanks for adding another solid option to try! 🙌
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Carmella Popescu
Hey! I just went through this exact same nightmare a few weeks ago. The DMV website is absolutely terrible - I swear it crashes more often than it works! Here's what ended up working for me: I called the main DMV number (800-777-0133) early in the morning around 8 AM and surprisingly got through pretty quickly. The rep was able to find my "lost" submission by searching with my license plate number and VIN. Turns out it actually DID go through, even though I never got confirmation! She said this happens constantly and they usually find the submissions buried in their system. Definitely try calling first before paying for any callback services or driving to an office. And next time (hopefully there won't be one!), I'm definitely taking screenshots of every single page like others mentioned. Good luck! 🤞
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