Did you know that registering your vehicle with the state is much more complicated than buying a car? You’ll need to obtain several licenses and permits before getting a license plate for your new ride. Before you go out and buy that new car or truck, ensure you’re up-to-date on all the details surrounding auto registration so that you know exactly what you’re getting into.
What Is Auto Registration?
There’s a lot of confusion around auto registration. Motor vehicle registration is the process of registering your car in the state you live in. While some may think you need to register in every state your drive in, this isn’t actually true. For example, once your vehicle is registered in AZ, you can drive in NV, CA, or any other state you wish.
How Do I Register My Vehicle?
To register your vehicle, simply visit your local DMV. Once there, you’ll need to bring several items with you:
- The title and proof of ownership of the vehicle
- Proof of insurance (if applicable)
- Your driver’s license or state ID card
If the DMV requires you to attend a clinic, you must complete the entire eight-hour course and bring the proof. According to 1 Stop Driving School, failing to satisfactorily complete the clinic within 90 days will result in your driving privilege being suspended until you meet this requirement.
Do I Have to Pay Taxes and Fees for My Vehicle?
You’ll need to pay taxes and fees when you register your vehicle. Taxes and costs vary depending on the vehicle type, county, and other factors. If you’re transferring ownership from one person to another (i.e., buying/selling), no fee applies. However, if you’re transferring ownership from one person to another corporation or business entity, such as a partnership, there’s still a transfer fee.
When Do I Need to Renew My Auto Registration?
The answer to this question depends on where you live and the type of vehicle registration you have. Some states require annual renewal, while others only require renewal every two or three years. In addition to the expiration date of your registration sticker changing annually, some states will send you reminders before your registration expires. However, others don’t offer such a service.
Hopefully you now have a better understanding of the process of vehicle registration. It may be a little intimidating, but everyone else is in the same boat! Just take your time and remember to keep track of every vehicle ownership document, especially those proving insurance coverage. Give us a call today at FooteWork Auto License & Title Service today to get your registration taken care of.
