Yes, you can generally register a car for someone else, but the process is strict and varies by state. The key factor is that you must be listed as the co-owner on the vehicle's title, or you need a signed power of attorney from the person you're registering it for. Simply walking into the DMV to register a car for a friend or family member without the proper legal authorization is typically not allowed. The primary reason is to prevent fraud and ensure the true owner is legally identified for liability and tax purposes. The registration will be issued in the actual owner's name, not yours.
The most common and straightforward scenario is registering a car for an immediate family member, like a child or spouse. In many states, you'll need to provide proof of your relationship (e.g., a birth certificate) and proof of residency. The other person must have valid auto insurance in their name for that specific vehicle.
If you are purchasing the car as a gift, the process involves two main steps. First, the title must be correctly transferred to the recipient. When you buy the car, the seller should sign the title over to the person receiving the gift. You can then take that title, along with a completed gift affidavit if required by your state, to the DMV to handle the registration on their behalf. If you are co-signing a loan, you will almost always be a co-owner on the title, which gives you the legal right to handle the registration.
Attempting to register a car for someone who is not a co-owner and without a power of attorney can be considered title jumping or a straw purchase, which is illegal. It complicates ownership, creates liability nightmares, and can lead to significant fines. Always check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for specific documentation requirements before you go.
| Scenario | Required Documentation | Key Consideration |
|---|
| Registering for a Spouse/Child | Title signed to owner, proof of relationship, proof of insurance, your ID. | Often the simplest process; some states have specific family transfer forms. |
| Gifting a Vehicle | Title signed to recipient, completed Gift Tax Affidavit (e.g., Form MV-13T in NY), bill of sale stating $0 or "gift." | Avoids sales tax for the recipient; must be a bona fide gift with no payment expected. |
| Using a Power of Attorney | Signed and notarized DMV-specific Power of Attorney form, title, owner's ID proof. | Grants you legal authority to act on the owner's behalf; used when the owner is unavailable (e.g., deployed military, ill). |
| Co-Signing a Loan | Loan agreement, title application with both names, IDs and insurance for both parties. | Both you and the primary driver are legally responsible for the loan and the vehicle. |
| Non-Family Member (No POA) | Generally not permitted. The owner must typically be present. | Attempting this may be seen as an attempt to avoid fees or taxes, potentially leading to fraud allegations. |
