How to Register Your Car in a New State After You Move

Each state sets its own deadline, and most start the clock when you establish residency, for example by taking a job, signing a lease or enrolling children in school. Some states also require a new driver's license on a similar timeline.

• The vehicle title, or your lender's name and account details if you have a loan
• Your current out-of-state registration
• Proof of insurance that meets the new state's requirements
• A driver's license or other ID
• Proof of your new address, such as a lease or utility bill
• An odometer reading
• Payment for title, registration and any taxes or fees

1. 1Update your insuranceTell your insurer your new address and confirm the policy meets your new state's minimums.
2. 2Check inspection rulesSome states or counties need a VIN verification, safety check or emissions test first.
3. 3Gather documentsTitle or lender details, ID, proof of address and your old registration.
4. 4Apply at the DMVMany states let you start online or book an appointment.
5. 5Get plates and return old ones if requiredSome states want the old plates surrendered; follow your former state's rules.
6. 6Cancel the old registrationStop any automatic renewals in your former state.

When a lender or leasing company holds the title, your new state usually requests it directly or asks you to get it sent. Contact the lender as soon as you know your move date, because title requests can take weeks.

• Tell the lender or lessor about the move before you ship the car
• Ask how they handle out-of-state title transfers and what forms they need
• Check whether your lease limits where the car can be registered or its mileage

Because deadlines can be short, it helps to have the car arrive soon after you do. Leave room for the shipping window, and keep your old registration valid until the new one is issued.

• Book shipping two to three weeks before your move
• Choose a delivery date close to your DMV appointment if an inspection is needed
• Keep proof of your shipping dates in case you need to explain a short delay

Most states also expect new residents to switch their driver's license within a set time. Florida and New York, for example, ask new residents to get a license within 30 days. Many DMVs let you handle the license and registration in the same visit, which saves a trip.

Requirements vary widely. Some states only check the VIN to confirm the car matches its title. Others require an emissions test in certain counties, and a few have safety inspections. California, for example, may require a smog certification for cars coming from another state, and Texas requires emissions testing in some counties.

• Check whether your new county requires an emissions test
• Find out who can do a VIN verification: the DMV, police or licensed dealers
• Fix warning lights before the test, since many emissions checks fail on them

Expect title and registration fees, and in some states a tax or fee when you bring a car in. Some states credit sales tax you already paid elsewhere. Fees are often based on the car's value, weight or age, so use your new state's DMV fee information for an exact figure.

• Update your address with your insurer and lender
• Check the registration deadline and book a DMV appointment
• Find out whether you need a VIN check, emissions test or safety inspection
• Gather your title or lender details, ID and proof of address
• Plan the car's arrival before your deadline
• Get your new driver's license
• Register, get plates and cancel your old registration