To get tags for a car, you need to register the vehicle with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. This process involves providing proof of ownership, valid auto insurance, and passing any required safety or emissions inspections. You'll then pay the associated registration fees and taxes to receive your license plates and registration sticker, commonly referred to as "tags."
The specific requirements and steps vary significantly by state, but the core components are consistent. You typically need the following documents:
- Proof of Ownership: This is usually the vehicle’s title, properly signed over to you. If you have a loan on the car, the lender will hold the title, and you'll provide a copy of the loan agreement.
- Proof of Identity: A valid driver's license or state ID card.
- Proof of Insurance: A valid auto insurance card or policy document that meets your state's minimum coverage requirements.
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Inspection/Smog Check: Many states require a recent smog certificate or a VIN verification, especially for used vehicles.
You can often complete the process online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. If you've just purchased a car from a dealership, they frequently handle the initial registration for you. For private sales, the responsibility falls on you, the new owner, to visit the DMV promptly.
| State | Typical Registration Fee Range | Smog Check Required? | Online Renewal Available? | Estimated Processing Time (In-Person) |
|---|
| California | $290 - $450+ | Yes, for most areas | Yes | 1 - 3 hours |
| Texas | $50 - $80 | Yes, in certain counties | Yes | 45 - 90 minutes |
| Florida | $225 - $400 | No | Yes | 30 - 60 minutes |
| New York | $140 - $230 | Yes (annual inspection) | Yes | 1 - 2 hours |
| Colorado | $70 - $120 | Yes, in the Front Range | Yes | 30 - 60 minutes |
Be prepared to pay sales tax on the purchase price if you just bought the car. The total cost can be surprisingly high, so it's best to check your state's DMV website for a fee calculator beforehand. Missing deadlines can result in late fees, so don't delay.
