Yes, you can register a car in New York, but the process involves several specific steps and documentation that must be completed through the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The core requirements include providing proof of ownership, valid New York State auto insurance, a completed title certificate, and passing a mandatory safety inspection. You'll also need to pay the applicable registration and title fees. The process can be initiated online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office.
Before you begin, you must have a valid New York State driver's license or a valid driver's license from another jurisdiction. The vehicle must be covered by auto insurance from a company licensed to do business in New York. Your insurer will provide you with a DMV form (MV-82) that serves as proof of insurance.
The most critical document is the vehicle's title. If you have a loan, the lienholder holds the title and will have specific instructions. You'll need to complete the appropriate sections on the title to transfer ownership. If the vehicle is new, the manufacturer's certificate of origin (MCO) acts as the title.
All vehicles registered in New York must pass an annual safety inspection at a DMV-licensed station. You'll receive a inspection sticker for your windshield. You cannot complete your registration without proof of this inspection.
The costs vary based on your vehicle's weight and model year. The registration fee is typically paid every one or two years. Here’s a sample of the potential fees involved:
| Fee Type | Typical Cost Range | Notes |
|---|
| Title Fee | $50 | One-time fee for the certificate of title. |
| Registration Fee (Passenger Car) | $26 - $140 per year | Based on vehicle weight; often paid for a two-year cycle. |
| Plate Fee | $25 | One-time fee for a standard set of plates. |
| Sales Tax | 4% - 8.875% | Varies by county; paid on the purchase price if buying from a dealer. |
| Inspection Fee | ~$37 | Paid directly to the inspection station. |
After submitting your application and fees, the DMV will issue your license plates, registration certificate, and a 10-day inspection sticker (if you haven't already passed the inspection). You then have a short window to get the vehicle inspected and receive the full-term sticker. Keep all documents in the vehicle as required by law.
