How To Register Your Car

Step 1: The Hand Off

In addition to having the title signed over to you, the seller and yourself should complete a vehicle bill of sale. These two documents will serve as a record of the transaction which you will present to your state department of motor vehicles.

Step 2: Grace period

When you buy a car, there is a grace period of varying lengths of time depending on the state where you live. Typically, you will have 7 to 14 days to take car of these formalities.

Step 3: DMV or Auto Club

When you have all the required documents, visit your local department of motor vehicles. Call the DMV in advance and set up an appointment. Also, some auto clubs have shops that will register your vehicle and sometimes provide the smog check right then and there.