General Requirements

First-Time Registrations

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

• Bought a car

• Received a car as 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.

Get Insurance

Even though you don't need to provide proof of auto liability insurance when you register your car (you can simply include the necessary information on the form), 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.

Prepare the Paperwork

If you buy from a dealership, the dealer should handle the the registration and titling for you. Otherwise, you'll need to gather the following documents:

1. A completed Application for Vehicle Title and Registration (Form VSD-190)
2. A properly assigned title (see our Title Transfers
3. A completed Form RUT-50
4. A completed Tax Form RUT-25 (dealer purchase) or Form RUT-50 (private party purchase), if you recently moved to the state.

NOTE: If you reside in an area requiring a smog check, you'll be mailed, after registering, an emissions test notice.

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

Calculate the Fees

Your first-time registration, with standard plates, costs $99. Personalized or specialty plates carry additional charges.

Go to a Secretary of State (SOS) Office

Bring all documents and proper payment to any SOS office.

Or, 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 standard 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 for available styles and options.

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.

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