Registering your vehicle can seem offputting. But acquiring a grasp of state requirements -- and following them to the letter -- can put your car on the road, legally. Take advantage of an overview on how to register your car.

Registering your vehicle can seem offputting. But acquiring a grasp of state requirements -- and following them to the letter -- can put your car on the road, legally. Take advantage of an overview on how to register your car.

Vehicle registration is a fact of life in these United States. Each state has its own rules and regulations relative to registration and titling. Following is an outline of how to proceed. But be sure to seek specifics from the appropriate state agency.

• In most states, you can submit your registration paperwork and documentation

1. In person -- At the state titling and registration agency,
2. In person -- At licensed tag and title service offices, if available
3. By mail

• Chances are, when you purchase a new car, the dealer will take care of the titling and registration process. You should end up with a bill of sale and at least temporary license plates.

• You will typically receive your permanent title and/or license plates by mail.

(Creative Commons photo by DeusX Florida)

• When you buy a used car from a dealer, you will need at least the following:

1. Current title
2. Photo ID
3. Application form
4. Proof of insurance
5. Bill of sale
6. Applicable fees/taxes

• Depending on state regulations, you may need:

1. Odometer disclosure
2. Safety inspection certificate
3. Lien information
4. Power of attorney
5. Emissions test certification
6. Proof of sales tax payment

• If you buy a used car from a non-dealer, be prepared to show at least

1. Proof of ownership (title, or old registration plus bill of sale)
2. Application form
3. Photo ID
4. Proof of purchase price
5. Odometer disclosure

• Depending upon applicable laws, you may also need

1. Safety inspection certificate
2. Lien information
3. Lien release
4. Power of attorney
5. Additional forms
6. Emissions test certification
7. Proof of sales tax payment

• Take special care when acquiring a used car to get all necessary documentation from the seller.

Once again, laws vary by state, but generally, an owner must register a car new to the state after a specified time period (that may range from 10 days to six months).

• You will need at least your

1. Former state registration
2. Photo ID
3. Proof of ownership
4. Proof of insurance
5. Fee (varies by state)
6. Application form

• In some states, you may need

1. Certificate of safety inspection
2. Proof of vehicle value (bill of sale, lease agreement)
3. Lien information
4. Lien release
5. Power of attorney
6. Proof of sales tax payment
7. Emissions test certification

• Renewing your registration typically requires fewer documents, but you can expect to need to provide at least your

1. Past year registration
2. Photo ID
3. Proof of insurance
4. Emissions test certificate, if necessary

Registering your car is a legal requirement. Complying with the regulations of your state is critical. When in doubt about what to submit and when, contact the applicable state agency by phone, online, in person, or by mail.

• Introduction
• Step 1: New Car
• Step 2: Used Car
• Step 3: Car New to State
• Step 4: Registration Renewal
• Conclusion