Buying and Selling FAQs in Georgia

I am moving to Georgia from Europe and want to bring my current vehicles with me. What do I need to do?

Georgia residents who buy, or bring, a vehicle from another state, or even another country, will need to title it in the state of Georgia. You'll need to provide the following documents and visit your local Tax Commissioner's office.

• Completed Title/Tag Application.

• Original title signed over to you or manufacturer's certificate of origin.

• Certificate of Inspection―You can get this done at the tax commissioner's office when you go in to make application, or you can request any law enforcement officer to perform the inspection and complete the T-22B form before you go.

• Bill of sale.

• Proof of insurance.

• Emissions inspection certificate.

• Translated documents, if necessary. If any of the documents needed to register are not written in English, you must get them translated before making your application. See the state's information page for further details.

• Declaration statement.

• EPA declaration.

• Appropriate taxes and fees.

The EPA provides a website with information on importing vehicles, as does the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

How do I get a temporary tag?

When you buy a vehicle in Georgia, the dealer will affix a temporary tag to your purchase, whether it's new or used. That temporary tag is valid for 30 days, which usually allows enough time for all the title and registration paperwork to be processed.

If you do not receive your temporary tag within the 30 days, you may apply for one temporary tag at your local Tax Commissioner's office; the dealer cannot issue an extension. You'll need to complete an Application to Extend Initial Registration Period and surrender the dealer-issued tag. You'll also need to show proof of ownership, proper ID, and proof of insurance to receive the temporary tag, which is valid for an additional 30 days.

How much tax will I pay on my new car purchase?

Georgia offers an online ad valorem tax calculator so you can know the approximate value tax on your vehicle. You'll also find a variety of charts to calculate all the different fees due:

• Annual Tag Fees

• Special Tag Fees

Other fees you may need to pay include a $1 mailing fee, $18 title fee, and different $10 title penalty fees if you are registering late. You can call your local Tax Commissioner's office for a more precise amount.

What's the best way to sell my car?

Check out DMV.org's Buying and Selling section for helpful tools and fun tips.

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