Why Choose Tags Clinic for Vehicle Retirement Help?
CAP Application Assistance
We walk you through the Vehicle Retirement program application from start to finish.
DMV Paperwork Completion
We handle the required title, REG forms, and emissions compliance documentation.
Eligibility Pre-Check
Know instantly whether you qualify before submitting your car.
Fast Track to Pick-Up or Junking
We guide you to an authorized dismantler once approved.
Multilingual Support
Available in Spanish, Arabic, Somali, and more.
Book a Retirement Assistance Appointment
Appointments make it easy to get your paperwork in order and verify your eligibility.
Steps to Book:
- Choose your time
- Bring required vehicle and income information
- We’ll complete all paperwork and file it for you
What is the Vehicle Retirement Program?
The Vehicle Retirement Program allows you to voluntarily retire a vehicle that’s no longer roadworthy or fails smog. You may qualify for a state incentive when retiring older, high-polluting cars through authorized stations like Tags Clinic.
When Do You Use the Vehicle Retirement Program?
- Your vehicle fails smog and is costly to repair
- You want to get paid to retire an older, high-emission car
- You’re applying for a cleaner vehicle incentive
- The vehicle is no longer being driven and you want to legally dispose of it
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, your vehicle must:
- Be registered in California with a valid CA title
- Pass a basic operability test (starts, moves under its own power)
- Have failed a recent smog check (optional, but speeds approval)
- Be free of lienholders (or have full ownership proof)
- Be driven under your name for the last 12+ months
- Not have pending tickets, registration blocks, or be declared junk
Required Documents
CA Title (in your name)
Original California Title
Vehicle Registration or REG 156 (if lost)
Required Form:
reg-156Valid photo ID
Driver License or California ID
Proof of income (if applying for $1,500 amount)
Pay stub, benefits award, or income eligibility docs
Smog failure notice (if applicable)
Smog test result showing failure
Completed REG 42 + CAP Application
Required Forms:
- REG 42 (Not Available)
- CAP APP (Not Available)
reg-42
cap-app
Our staff will assist with filling out and submitting all required forms during your visit.
Category
General Public
Income-Eligible Households
Payout
Up to $1,000
Up to $1,500
Note
We’ll review your eligibility and income documents to determine which level applies to you.
What Happens After Approval?
Step 1
You receive an official approval letter from CAP
Step 2
We help schedule a drop-off at an authorized dismantler
Step 3
You surrender the vehicle
Step 4
Check is mailed to you from the state
Watch: How to Retire Your Car for Cash
Coming soon — A video guide to help you understand how California’s Vehicle Retirement Program works and how to get paid.
Customer Testimonials
My old van couldn’t pass smog anymore. Tags Clinic helped me retire it and I got a $1,000 check in the mail.
I didn’t even know the state offered this. Tags Clinic walked me through everything. Easiest $1,500 I’ve ever received.
Cities We Serve Within 50 Miles of San Diego
Tags Clinic proudly provides dealership and fleet DMV services across Southern California, including:
We’re located at 3845 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105—convenient for clients across the region.
Request Vehicle Retirement Assistance or Eligibility Check
Not sure if you qualify? We’ll verify instantly and help you apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Turn Your Old Car Into Cash — We Make It Easy
Tags Clinic helps San Diego drivers apply for California’s retirement program and get paid fast.
- Book Retirement Help
- Check If I Qualify
- Call Now: (619) 777-9046
- Walk In for Same-Day Support
Contact Us
- Monday–Friday: 9 AM – 7 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM – 6 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 6 PM