California DMV Lien Sales
Procedures & Regulations.
An independent informational resource based on official DMV Rule Making Actions and VIN-MEMOS. We help the public and industry professionals understand the complex lifecycle of vehicle lien sales, from storage fees to auction surplus.
Who can file a DMV lien sale in California
Repair Shops
The Mechanic's Lien. Arises when the bill is presented.
- ⚠ Cap: $1,500 Labor / $1,025 Storage
- ⚠ Requires Legal Owner Consent for more
Tow & Impound
The Possessory Lien. Arises immediately upon possession of the vehicle.
- ✓ 15-Day Filing Limit (Public Agency)
- ✓ 30-Day Filing Limit (Private Property)
- ✓ Must maintain continuous possession
Self-Storage
The "Long Lien" Rule. Self-storage facilities must use the Long Lien process regardless of vehicle value.
- ⚠ Treats all cars as "Over $4k"
- ⚠ Requires Newspaper Publication
It's Not Just Paperwork.
It's Strict Liability.
California's lien laws are a minefield of deadlines and specific forms. A single missed checkbox can invalidate thousands of dollars in storage fees. Here is the breakdown of the current landscape.
Under $4,000
CC 3072The "Short Lien." Faster, but strictly capped by value.
- 1 Form: REG 668 (Notice of Pending Lien Sale)
- 2 Timeline: ~31-41 Days
- 3 Redemption: None. Buyer takes immediate possession.
Over $4,000
CC 3071The "Long Lien." Mandatory for Self-Storage & High Value.
- 1 Form: REG 656 (Application for Authorization)
- 2 Timeline: 90-120 Days (Requires DMV Approval)
- 3 Redemption: 10 Days AFTER sale date.
- New 2026 Fee: $39.00
The Valuation Trap
Gone are the days of "eyeball estimates." New regulations push for valuation based on VLT Class. A wrecked Mercedes might still be valued as a $25k car by the DMV computer, forcing you into the Long Lien process.
The Opposition Stop
If an owner signs the "Declaration of Opposition," the sale freezes instantly. Your only recourse is to file a court action within 30 days. No court judgment? No sale.
The Revenue Shift
With the filing fee jumping to $39 for Long Liens, and more cars being classified as such, the State is capturing more revenue. Strict adherence to storage caps (CC 3068.1) is vital for your bottom line.