Related Questions from DMV Answers

• What paperwork do emission testing sites require?

  The one thing you can count on having to bring to the smog check is your vehicle; the inspectors can’t perform an emissions test on a vehicle that’s not there, after all.After that, requirements vary by state. Once you dive into the grid, you’ll see that most emissions testing sites require nothing more than your registration information (this might be your vehicle’s registration card, registration renewal notice, or – in the case of newly purchased vehicles – your title) and the appropriate fees. You’ll even see that some states provide emissions tests for free!Of course, situations might arise in which you’ll need to provide extra paperwork, such as a smog test reminder notice. This grid notes such additional requirements, but be sure to pay attention to any registration or smog check renewal notices that might outline the paperwork you must bring.Check the grid below to find out your state’s requirements.
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• Is there a grace period for my registration?

  You can learn if your state offers a grace period for vehicle registration from the grid below. If you harbor more questions about this topic, call your local state's DMV office. Or try visiting its Web site and search under registration renewal.If your registration's expiration date is approaching or has passed, you need to initiate the renewal process as quickly as possible. Otherwise you'll risk accruing late fees and, possibly, getting ticketed. 
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• What if my car fails the vehicle inspection?

  The grid below highlights how your state requires you to handle a failed vehicle inspection.Generally, you’ll need to make the necessary repairs and return the vehicle for another inspection. However, some states offer perks such as free re-inspections for returning the vehicle within a certain amount of time and/or to the same auto inspection station. In addition to taking advantage of any freebies your state offers, it’s important to make the repairs and return for a re-inspection in a timely manner in order to handle vehicle registration or registration renewal on time, as well as avoid late fees, citations, and other penalties.NOTE: If the grid states you don’t have to get a vehicle inspection in your state, be sure to double-check with your motor vehicle licensing agency. Some states do require certain kinds of inspections, such VIN inspections before registering out-of-state vehicles, salvage vehicles that have been rebuilt, or custom-built vehicles, or emiss...
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• Where can I get an application for a temporary license plate?

  Probably because of the amount of paperwork that’s required (copies of title/registration documents, proof of identification, proof of residency, proof of vehicle identification number, fees, etc.), most states require owners to apply for temporary license plates (or temporary permits or temporary registrations, as some states call them) in person at the DMV or other state motor vehicle licensing agency. If this is the case for you, sweep through your state’s Web site and look to see if an temporary license plate application form is available online before heading out; it could save you some time.No matter what state you live in, when you purchase a new or used vehicle from a dealership your salesperson will start most of the registration-related paperwork for you and issue you a temporary license plate or equivalent; therefore, the grid doesn’t reflect the dealership option.Check your state in the grid below.
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• Is there a grace period for vehicle registration renewal?

  Generally, no. Some states, such as Texas, will give you a brief window after your expiration date. But, for the majority of states, your vehicle registration ends on your registration deadline with no grace period.Now, you can usually renew your registration after the deadline without having to pay a late registration penalty. Again, this varies depending on your state's vehicle registration renewal policy. Some states will make you pay extra even if you're one day late. However, most states will give you anywhere from 10 days to several months to renew without hitting you with additional charges.However, that still doesn't protect you from being nailed with a traffic ticket fine. And, those fees usually are much more expensive than the cost of the registration renewal. In most states, you're breaking the law if you haven't renewed your registration by the deadline - even by an hour.Check with your state's motor vehicle division to learn the renewal policy in yo...
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