General Requirements

Registration Renewal

If you've already registered your vehicle in this state, visit Registration Renewals.

First-Time Registration

You’ll need to register your car if you have:

• Recently bought, inherited, or received a car

• Moved into the state as a resident (as opposed to a student or for military)

If you’re new to the state, you have 30 days to change your registration.

You also have 30 days to title and pay sales tax after you buy or come into possession of a vehicle; on the 31st day, the DOR starts assessing a $25 penalty that increases monthly.

Get Insurance

Now is the time to make sure you have adequate car insurance. Shop around for the best rates.

Prepare the Paperwork

Usually, buying a car from a dealer has the benefit of not doing any paperwork―the dealer will turn in everything for you.

Everyone else must register cars on their own. Be sure to get the title from the previous owner and that it's signed over to you. If it’s lost, apply for a new one. Also remember to get a Bill of Sale so you can prove you bought the car.

To register, you’ll need to show:

1. Proof of auto insurance or other proof of financial responsibility.
2. The title or Manufacturer's Statement of Origin if the car is brand new.
3. An Application for Missouri Title and License.
4. An Odometer Disclosure Statement, unless it’s already listed on the title.
5. A notarized lien release.
6. A receipt for your paid personal property tax (copies not accepted) or Statement of Non-Assessment, if you didn’t owe any.
7. A certificate from your safety inspection, unless your vehicle is exempt.
8. A certificate from your emissions inspection, if you live in St. Louis, St. Charles, Franklin, or Jefferson counties.

Remember, if you haven’t yet purchased your car, invest in a Vehicle History Report that will alert you to any red-flags, such as a salvage title.

Calculate the Fees

Registration fees are based on horsepower or vehicle weight.

Calculate your sales tax of 4.225%, plus your local sales tax, based on the purchase price of your vehicle; plus various fees.

Go to the DMV

Next, head down to your DOR branch office with your paperwork and your fees ready.

License Plates

At the DOR, you’ll also get your license plates and expiration tab. If you have plates from another car, you can transfer them instead of getting new ones.

Here, you can also order from among many specialized plates, or order a vanity plate with numbers or letters on it that you like (as long as it’s not already taken or offensive).

You can also get yourself license plate frames with your favorite team, animal, or whatever you like, to cap off your look (and make your car easier to spot in the parking lot).

Affix Your Tabs

The year tab comes with your plate. The state did away with month expiration dates, so now the color denotes which month it expires. Be sure to follow the directions that come with the tab, because different plates require different tag placements.

Get a Tax Deduction

The IRS allows you to deduct registration fees based on vehicle value. Look at your registration receipt for the amount. If you have any questions, consulting a tax attorney is a good idea.

Safely Get on Your Way

One of the best things you can do for peace of mind, especially if your loved ones are driving your car, is to make sure they’re adequately protected.

Investing in a roadside assistance program ensures you won’t have to worry if the car breaks down. An auto emergency kit stashed in the car is essential for minor dust-ups. And in the event that the breakdown is major, an after-market warranty costs a bit upfront but can save you money in the long run. Having a mechanic that you already know is also a good idea, too. Searching for a mechanic when your car is broken is not a good situation to be in.

Before you head out, also check your accessories to make sure they’re up to par. A hands-free headset is necessary if you have a cell phone. For parents of small kids, check the safety seats to make sure they meet current standards and the vehicle.

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