Special Vehicles in Indiana

Many Hoosiers either own or are interested in buying a vehicle other than a car or motorcycle. So, let's take a look at some of these other types of transportation and fun. Specifically, we'll examine how to register and title snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), off-road vehicles (ORVs), and trailers.

If you're interested in information about boats, recreational vehicles,
or custom-built vehicles, we have separate sections covering these areas.

Registration of a Snowmobile, ATV, or ORV

If you purchased any of these vehicles after December 31, 2003, you'll need to register them through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

You may download the application form, or try to pick one up at a dealer location or license agency. You can also obtain forms by calling the DNR at either (317) 232-4200 or toll-free at (877) 463-6367, or by stopping by the Customer Service Center at:

• Department of Natural Resources

• 402 W. Washington St.

• Room W160

• Indianapolis, IN 46204

The application form has many uses, such as for requesting a duplicate registration, correcting information on an issued registration, or renewing a registration.

A completed bill of sale must accompany the form.

Mail the completed forms along with the $30 payment (check, credit card, or money order) to:

• Customer Service Center

• Department of Natural Resources

• 402 W. Washington St.

• Room W160

• Indianapolis, IN 46204

If you prefer, you may bring everything to the Customer Service Center instead.

Allow a day or two for processing, provided the form is completely and accurately filled out. If it isn't, the DNR may return it to you without processing it. Be sure to give yourself enough time to have the registration processed and mailed. Contact the Customer Service Center if you haven't received your registration after 10 business days.

Registrations need to be renewed every three years. You may renew your registration through the mail, in person at the Customer Service Center, or online. You can renew your registration up to 90 days before the expiration date. It costs $30 to renew, plus additional online fees of $2.64.

You may begin to legally ride your vehicle for up to 31 days after purchasing it, provided that you can keep the bill of sale with you. Be sure to have your registration in hand and the decals affixed to the vehicle before this period ends.

If you have any questions about registering these vehicles, call the registration section at (317) 233-3149 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, or visit the information page.

In case you're wondering, golf carts aren't considered off-road vehicles and don't need to be registered.

Titling a Snowmobile, ATV, or ORV

All ORVs and ATVs purchased after December 31, 2005 need to be titled. If you become an Indiana resident, you'll need to obtain a title for your ORV or ATV if it's less than five years old.

Snowmobiles do not need to be titled.

The titling process is under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), so you can handle this at any license agency. Titles cost $15, and you must receive one within 31 days of the vehicle purchase. If you don't have your title by this time, you'll face a $21 penalty.

Consult our titling section to review the application process.

Trailers

Trailers are considered motor vehicles and will need to go through the same registration and titling process as passenger cars.

The registration fee will vary depending on where you live and the weight of your trailer.

Titles cost $15.

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