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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! 💪
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! 🙌
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! 🤞
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! 🙏
Hey OP, whatever you do, DON'T drive until you're fully reinstated. It's not worth the risk. I know someone who got caught driving on a suspended license and it made everything 10x worse. Just be patient and do it right!
For California DMV license reinstatement, you'll want to gather these documents before you go: 1) Proof of payment for all outstanding fines/fees (keep those receipts!), 2) SR-22 insurance form if required, 3) Completion certificate for any court-ordered classes, 4) Valid ID, and 5) the reinstatement fee (usually around $55). Also, call ahead to confirm what specific forms you need - sometimes they have additional requirements depending on your situation. The DMV website has a reinstatement checklist that's pretty helpful too. Good luck!
Isabella Santos
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!
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Paige Cantoni
•Oh wow, I had no idea there was an automated line! That's super helpful - I'll definitely try that first before waiting on hold forever. Thanks for the tip about having all the buyer info ready too. I'm feeling a lot less stressed about this now knowing it's a common issue 😅
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Evelyn Kelly
Just wanted to chime in with another data point - I had this exact same issue about 6 months ago when I sold my Honda. The website crashed right after I hit submit and I was panicking thinking I'd have to start over. Called the DMV the next day and they found it in their system no problem! Apparently their confirmation emails are pretty unreliable. The agent told me that as long as you got through the payment screen (if there was one), the submission usually goes through even if the page crashes afterward. Definitely still call to confirm though - better safe than sorry with liability issues!
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