Registering a Motorcycle for the First Time

Registering your motorcycle for the first time is similar to registering your car for the first time. You can register and title your motorcycle for the first time in one of two ways: at the dealership from which you purchased your motorcycle, or at your local county clerk's office.

If you purchased your motorcycle from a dealership, the dealer will handle all paperwork for you and you'll be charged the applicable fees right there.

If you're registering a new motorcycle, take to your county clerk the Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO), the new vehicle invoice, and your current registration if you're transferring a license plate.

If you're registering a used motorcycle, take to your county clerk the signed certificate of title, Odometer Disclosure Statement, if applicable, and your current registration if you're transferring a license plate.

As with the titling and registering of any vehicle, you must provide the appropriate documents to show proof of identification and residency.

Motorcycles from Out of State

New residents must title and register their motorcycles within 30 days of establishing Tennessee residency. The requirements to title and register your motorcycle are the same as titling and registering any other vehicle.

Go to your local county clerk's office to apply for a Certificate of Title and Registration and take your most current registration and title, the names and addresses of any lienholders, and proof of identification and residency.

Registration Fees

Your registration fees will depend on the cost of your motorcycle. Regardless of whether you pay the taxes and fees at a dealership or the clerk's office, you'll pay:

• $28.50 registration fee (includes license plate)

• State tax: 7% of purchase price

• Local tax: amount depends on location

The Department of Revenue (DOR) advises contacting the county clerk's office for specific taxes.

Renewing Your Registration

Renewing your motorcycle registration is the same as renewing any other vehicle registration, except the fee will be $17.

You should receive a renewal notice in the mail; however, the DOS stresses the importance of keeping up with your renewal date in the event that you don't receive a notice. If you don't, simply take your current registration information to the county clerk's office when it's time to renew.

For more information, visit our Motorcycle License section, as well as Tennessee's title and registration Web page.

Your Opinion Matters To Us!