Title loans let you borrow money using your vehicle’s title as collateral. Get up to $25,000 depending on vehicle equity. You keep driving your car during repayment.
Looking for title loans near your location? While some lenders require in-person vehicle inspections, many now offer fully online applications with photo-based appraisals. Whether you’re in Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, or anywhere else in California, our matching service connects you with lenders serving your area—often without leaving home.
Car title loans use your automobile as collateral for secured borrowing. The loan amount depends on your vehicle’s current market value—typically up to 50% of the appraised worth. California lenders accept cars, trucks, SUVs, and motorcycles with clear titles. Your vehicle must be fully paid off or have significant equity to qualify for a car title loan.
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Title loans online streamline the borrowing process with digital applications and photo-based vehicle appraisals. Submit your application, upload photos of your car and title, and receive a lending decision—often within hours. Many California lenders now complete the entire process online, depositing funds directly to your bank account without requiring an in-person visit.
Title loans with no traditional credit check appeal to borrowers with poor or limited credit history. Because your vehicle secures the loan, lenders focus on car value rather than credit scores. Some perform soft inquiries that don’t affect your score, while others skip credit bureaus entirely. Your income and vehicle equity matter more than your credit report.
Bad Credit? Your Car’s Value Is What Counts
Title loans for bad credit exist because collateral reduces lender risk. Your vehicle’s value—not your credit score—primarily determines approval and loan amount. Past bankruptcies, collections, or low scores don’t automatically disqualify you. However, you’ll still need to demonstrate ability to repay through income verification. Title loans can be a viable option when traditional financing isn’t available.
Standard title loans require a clear, lien-free vehicle title. If you still owe money on your car, traditional title loans aren’t available until you pay off the existing loan. Some lenders offer refinancing options if you have significant equity beyond your current loan balance. Lost your physical title? You can obtain a duplicate from the California DMV before applying.
Instant title loans deliver fast decisions—often within 30 minutes of completing your application. While approval comes quickly, “instant” refers to the decision, not guaranteed approval. Funding typically follows within the same business day for applications submitted early with complete documentation. Have your title, ID, and income proof ready to maximize speed.
Same day title loans require efficient action from both borrower and lender. Apply early in the day with all documents ready: clear vehicle title, valid ID, proof of income, and proof of residency. Respond promptly to any verification requests. Many California title lenders fund approved loans the same business day when everything aligns properly.
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California regulates title loans under the California Financing Law (CFL) and Assembly Bill 539. For title loans between $2,500 and $10,000, interest rates are capped at 36% APR plus the federal funds rate. Loans above $10,000 have more flexible rates negotiated between borrower and lender. All title loan companies must be licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI).
Most California title lenders set minimum loan amounts at $2,500 to operate under state regulations. Repayment terms typically range from 12 to 36 months. Lenders must fully disclose all fees, interest rates, and total repayment costs before you sign. Verify any lender’s DFPI license at dfpi.ca.gov before providing personal information.
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Title loans aren’t the only option for California borrowers. Depending on your needs, timeline, and financial situation, other loan types might work better—especially if you want to avoid risking your vehicle. Golden State Loans helps you compare all available options.
Need a small amount quickly without using your car? California payday loans offer up to $300 with repayment due on your next paycheck. State law caps fees at 15% ($45 maximum). These work best for minor emergencies and don’t put your vehicle at risk. Unlike title loans, no collateral required.
Installment loans provide $1,000 to $35,000 with fixed monthly payments over months or years. Some installment lenders specialize in bad credit, offering more flexible approval than traditional personal loans. California’s AB 539 caps rates at 36% plus federal funds rate for loans $2,500-$10,000. No vehicle required as collateral.
Personal loans offer unsecured borrowing from $1,000 to $35,000 without risking your vehicle. If you have decent credit, personal loans often provide lower rates than title loans. Fixed monthly payments and terms from 12 to 60 months make budgeting predictable. No collateral means no risk of losing your car.
Facing an urgent expense? Emergency loans prioritize speed with same-day decisions and next-business-day funding. Amounts range from $500 to $10,000. These unsecured loans don’t require your vehicle as collateral, eliminating repossession risk while still delivering fast cash for genuine emergencies.
Tribal loans originate from lenders owned by Native American tribes operating under tribal sovereignty. These may offer different terms than state-regulated options, sometimes providing access to borrowers who face challenges qualifying elsewhere. No vehicle collateral required, though rates can be higher than California-regulated alternatives.
Federal employees and military members can access allotment loans with automatic payroll deduction. This repayment method often results in better rates than title loans—without risking your vehicle. Amounts typically range from $500 to $10,000 with terms up to 36 months. If you receive a federal paycheck, explore this option first.
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