Yes, in many states, AAA (American Automobile Association) can help you register a car, but primarily for vehicle registration renewals, not initial registrations for a newly purchased vehicle. Their services are a huge convenience, allowing you to bypass the often long lines at the DMV. However, the specific services available depend entirely on your location, as not all AAA clubs offer DMV services, and those that do have varying rules.
AAA's registration services typically cover:
- Renewing your vehicle's registration before it expires.
- Processing title transfers for used car purchases between private parties (in some locations).
- Issuing license plates and tags.
Key limitations to understand:
AAA generally cannot handle first-time registrations that require additional steps like sales tax payment, safety inspections, or VIN verification. These complex transactions usually must be completed at your local DMV office. For a new car bought from a dealership, the dealer almost always handles the entire registration process for you.
What you'll likely need to bring:
- Your current driver's license.
- The current vehicle registration or title.
- Proof of valid auto insurance.
- Payment for the registration fees.
The main advantage of using AAA is convenience and time savings. It's best to contact your local AAA office directly or check their website to confirm the specific vehicle registration services they provide in your state. The table below illustrates the variability of services across different regions.
| State / Region Example | AAA Club | Typical Registration Services Offered | Common Limitations |
|---|
| California | AAA Northern California | Registration renewal, replacement stickers/plates, title transfer for private party sales. | Cannot handle first-time registrations requiring tax payment. |
| New York | AAA New York State | Registration & title service, license plate surrender, duplicate documents. | Services may vary by county; some offices have restrictions. |
| Florida | The Auto Club Group (AAA) | Registration renewal, new resident registration, title transfers. | May not process transactions with outstanding tickets. |
| Texas | AAA Texas | Limited DMV services; primarily membership, insurance, and travel. | Vehicle registration services are not widely available. |
| Illinois | AAA Chicago | Registration renewal, license plate renewal, duplicate stickers. | Cannot issue new plates or process new vehicle registrations. |
| Michigan | AAA Michigan | Registration renewal, title transfer, license plate replacement. | Must be a AAA member to utilize the services. |
