My question involves vehicle registration or title in the state of: California

I am new in the States. located in Palo Alto. Have been looking for used cars from private parties. purpose was to look for a safe car that does not have too many previous owner. does not want cars from auctions or rental.

for some reasons, every single car i have looked at, the seller is not owner, ie seller's name is not on the title.

I have always been told the seller must prove the ownership, and it is also suggested by DMV.

Is it common practice in CA that seller is not the owner, if it is the case, what is the proper procedure to make sure it is a safe purchase?