There are a few things you will need to get your vehicle registered. Here we will discuss a few of them, but make sure to talk to your department about the exact process, so you can sit back and relax.
How long will it take to register your vehicle?
Depends on the state’s current backlog of processing. Some states are quick, while others can take several weeks or more to complete, depending on how many people are in line ahead of you. Make sure to track your registration information, so you know exactly when it will expire and plan accordingly for renewal notices. If you hate standing in line and want to avoid queues at the DMV, there are websites where you can renew your vehicle registration. They save you time and energy and take the DMV problem off of your plate.
Here are some things you will need:
1. A Certificate of Title
This is your original state issued certificate that will legally say you own the vehicle. You cannot register a car without this document and if needed, you can obtain it by filling out form MV-1 and sending it to the DMV for processing. It takes about 10 days and then all lien holder names need to be removed or else that person’s name will remain on the title after transferring ownership. If there are no liens, owners should sign right above any notary signature.
2. Out of State Registration (If Applicable)
Some states accept an application for registration; however, they may require additional documents such as proof of insurance or state inspection reports before proceeding with the transaction. Make sure to check on your department’s specific rules about out of state registrations.
3. A current state-issued driver’s license or ID
The vehicle owner needs to provide valid, unexpired photo identification at the time of registration. If the vehicle is registered to a business, they are not required to have an individual listed on the form, as it will be registered in their name instead. It is only required if you are registering it for personal use or as a sole proprietor with your business.
4. Proof of Residency (If Applicable)
Registration renewal notices are sent to the address listed on your vehicle registration records. If you have recently moved, you should update your address with the DMV so that any future documents will be delivered to where you currently reside. You can do this online or by filling out form MV-8 and sending it to their office by mail, email, or fax. It takes about 10 days for processing, and then they will issue a new registration card with the updated address to prove you live there.
If these documents don’t reflect your current residence, then additional documentation may be required such as rental/lease agreement, utility bills and bank statements showing your name and current address along with a letter from the person who is listed on the documents and their relationship to you and proof of service such as a bill addressed to their name and current address. Contact your department for more information about what they require.
Is Renewal Mandatory?
Yes. If you don’t want to get pulled over or worse, have your vehicle towed and impounded, make sure it’s registered before the expiration date! But if you fail to do so and get caught by police officers because you aren’t in compliance, then the fines vary depending on individual laws within each state. It wouldn’t be a cheap mistake, but it can be prevented with proper planning and communication with your department of transportation. If any mistakes were made when registering online, for example, inaccuracies such as false information or spelling errors, then you will need to wait for them to process your registration correction form (MV-232) by mail. So once again, make sure everything is accurate when applying at the DMV, otherwise, additional charges will be added to your bill.
Why is it easier to do it Online?
You can do it in the comfort of your own home without waiting in line or wasting time away from work or other obligations. Your personal registration information is safe and secure on DMV servers, so no one else will have access to your data unless you give them permission. Many states charge more when applied for in-person instead of online, which is another reason why it’s recommended to go with the faster confirmation at their website instead
After filling out the required documents and paying any fees that may be due, you just sit back and wait for your registration card to come in the mail, which usually takes about 10 days. The requirements may vary by state but are very similar across all 50 states. Good luck and drive safely!