Every vehicle operated on public roads must be registered with the state. When buying from a dealership, the dealer typically handles registration.

41 steps across 9 sections

1. Dealer-Handled Registration (New or Used from Dealer)

The dealer collects your fees and taxes at signing
Dealer submits paperwork to the DMV on your behalf
You receive temporary plates/tags at the time of purchase
Permanent plates and registration arrive by mail (typically 30-45 days)
Temporary tags are valid until permanent plates arrive (or up to 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on state)
Verify the dealer actually submits the paperwork — follow up if permanent plates don't arrive within the expected timeframe

2. Self-Registration (Private Sale)

You must visit the DMV (or state equivalent) in person in most states for first-time registration
Must be completed within the state's deadline (typically 10-30 days from purchase date)
Late registration may result in penalties/fines
Some states allow online or mail-in registration for certain transactions

Vehicle title — Signed over to you by the seller, or certificate of origin (for brand new vehicles)
Bill of sale — Proof of purchase showing the sale price (required for tax calculation)
Valid driver's license — Must be current; some states require state residency
Proof of insurance — Must meet state minimum coverage requirements; required BEFORE registration in most states
Application for title and registration — State-specific form (available at DMV or online)
Odometer disclosure — Required for vehicles under 20 years old (federal law)
Lien information — If the vehicle is financed, the lender's information is recorded on the title

Emissions/smog test results — Required in certain states and counties
Safety inspection certificate — Required in some states (Virginia, Texas, New York, etc.)
VIN verification form — Required in some states for out-of-state or first-time titled vehicles
Power of attorney — If someone else is registering on your behalf

California Registration fees range from $250 to $2,000+ in the first year (based on vehicle value); annual renewal decreases over time
Texas Base registration fee is $50.75 for passenger vehicles; plus local fees
New York Registration fees based on vehicle weight ($26-$140 per 2-year period); plus supplemental fees
Oregon No sales tax; registration fee $122-$306 depending on fuel type and MPG
Montana No sales tax; often used for LLC vehicle registration to avoid sales tax (legal but controversial)

Most states charge sales tax based on the purchase price shown on the bill of sale
Some states use the HIGHER of the purchase price or fair market value (to prevent under-reporting)
Trade-in tax credit applies in 43 states (see Topic 446)
Some states have flat fees instead of percentage-based tax (e.g., Oklahoma's excise tax)