Car Registration

General Requirements

Registration Renewals

Because this page only deals with initial registrations, you should visit our page on renewals if you need information regarding that topic.

First-Time Registrations

You'll need to register your car if you recently:

• Bought a car

• Received a car a gift

• Moved to the state

The registration and titling processes are closely related. If you take ownership of a car, you're required to title and register it within 20 days of the transaction. If you just moved to the state, you have 30 days to register and title your vehicle.

1) Get Insurance

Even though you don't need to provide proof of auto liability insurance when you register your car, you can't legally drive without it. So, if you haven't yet fulfilled this requirement, you can find providers (and look for the cheapest rates) by visiting our Insurance Center.

2) Prepare the Paperwork

If you bought your vehicle from a dealer, he should handle the the registration and titling for you.

If you bought the vehicle from a private party or you're registering an out-of-state vehicle, however, you'll need to take care of the matter on your own. To begin, collect the following:

1. Completed Application for Vehicle Title and Registration (Form VSD-190).
2. Properly assigned title (see our Title Transfers or Replacing a Lost Title articles for more information).
3. Completed Form RUT-50, if you haven't recently moved to the state.
4. Completed Tax Form RUT-25 (dealer purchase) or Form RUT-50 (private party purchase), if you recently moved to the state.

NOTE: At some point after you register your vehicle, your Secretary of State (SOS) office will send you a notice for a smog check. And, at that point, the smog certificate will become part of your paperwork.

Those registering an out-of-state vehicle with an existing lien or a lease should consult the state's new resident brochure for additional documentation requirements.

If you haven't made your final decision on a car, consider buying a vehicle history report. Doing so allows you to get a better look into the car's past, and can help you determine if a car is worth the price.

3) Calculate the Fees

Your first-time registration costs $78, providing you're content with the basic license plate. Personalized or specialty plates carry additional charges.

First-Time Fees

If you consider the associated title fees (including the vehicle use tax), your overall cost of registering your car for the first time will be considerably higher than when you're simply renewing it. You don't have to pay a use tax on an out-of-state vehicle if it's been registered for at least three months in your previous state.

Additional Fees

If you need to replace a registration, title, license plate, or sticker, you'll have to pay a fee for each task.

4) Go to a Secretary of State (SOS) Office

After you have the necessary paperwork, you can complete the registration process at any SOS office that offers motor vehicle services.

Or, you can mail the paperwork and fee payment to:

• Secretary of State

• Vehicle Services Department

• 501 S. Second St., Room 014

• Springfield, IL 62756

License Plates

If you process your registration in person and opt for a basic, non-personalized plate, the SOS will issue your license plates on the spot.

If you choose something fancier, the SOS will mail your plates to you. See our License Plates & Placards section to look at the styles and options available. And, don't forget about setting off your plates with the latest frames.

5) Affix Your Stickers

After you receive your stickers in person or through the mail, make sure to follow the provided instructions to properly attach them to your plates.

6) Get a Tax Deduction

Because Illinois doesn't calculate its registration renewal fees based on the vehicle's estimated value like some other states, you can't deduct a portion of the renewal fee on your federal taxes. See our Registration FAQs page for more information on this matter, or consult a tax attorney.

7) Safely Get on Your Way

Although you may have taken care of your paperwork requirements, you can still take some steps to make your ride safer and more enjoyable.

Begin when you purchase a roadside assistance program and auto emergency kit. You never know what situation you'll find yourself in once you hit the road, and having both of these will help you deal with whatever arises.

Also, if you're a cell phone user, get a hands-free headset so you can keep both hands safely on the wheel. Of course, you need to protect your younger passengers with child safety seats.

And, lastly, take care of the vehicle itself. Find a quality mechanic and use a after-market warranty to make sure your car gets the care it needs to safely transport you and your passengers.