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US State Vehicle Registration

If you are planning to purchase a motor vehicle, whether it's your first used car costing only a few thousand dollars or your fifth candy apple red corvette valued at more than $150,000, you must register your vehicle in the US. Registration is proof that you have paid the US registration tax on your motor vehicle, and it also identifies you as the owner of the vehicle. Your registration consists of a standard metal license plate (vanity plates cost extra), a serially numbered validation decal, and a registration certificate. The plates must be displayed according to US state law, and the registration certificate must be carried in your motor vehicle at all times. Keep in mind that the penalties for driving without registration in the US are stiff.

In order to register your vehicle in the US, you must go to your local DMV. You need to bring your valid driver's license, proof of US insurance, and the title. Fees will be assessed based on several factors ranging from the type of vehicle or weight to the year and intended use. Registration lasts for 12 months. This means, you must pay for a new registration certificate every year that you own and operate the vehicle.

At first, the registration process may seem complicated and time-consuming, but rest assured, once your vehicle has been registered, renewing your US vehicle registration will be quite easy. Each year prior to your expiration date, the US will mail a renewal card (along with the renewal fee amount) to your registered address. You will have ample time to pay the renewal fee in one of several ways:

• Online, which is the fastest and easiest way to renew.
• By mail, if you plan to renew several months in advance.
• In person, which is a good idea only if you are in a unique situation and have questions.

If you still have questions regarding vehicle registration in the US, the US DMV website will have answers to most frequently asked questions.

You should also make sure that you have enough insurance for the US. AutoCarInsurance.org can help you find the best insurance coverage by letting you compare policies from the top insurance companies.