Registering a car in Indiana involves a visit to your local Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) branch with the required documents and payment for fees. The core requirements are the vehicle's title, proof of Indiana auto insurance, and a valid form of identification. If you’ve just purchased the vehicle, you typically have 45 days to complete the registration. The process is straightforward if you have all your paperwork in order.
The most critical document is the certificate of title, properly assigned to you by the previous owner. If you have a loan on the car, the lienholder will hold the title, but you'll receive a copy to present. You must also show proof of Indiana auto insurance from a provider licensed to operate in the state. A driver's license or state ID card is needed for proof of identity.
You will need to pay several fees. The most significant is the excise tax, which is calculated based on your vehicle's age and assessed value. There is also a statewide registration fee and a county-specific wheel tax. If your vehicle is new to Indiana, you'll need a VIN inspection, which can often be done on the spot at the BMV.
| Fee Type | Description | Example Cost/Range |
|---|
| Excise Tax | Based on vehicle's age and assessed value. Formula: (Assessed Value) x (Tax Rate). | Varies widely; e.g., $150 - $500+ |
| Registration Fee | Standard state fee for passenger vehicles. | $21.35 |
| County Wheel Tax | Varies by county of residence; not all counties have one. | $15 - $25 (if applicable) |
| Title Fee | Fee for processing the vehicle title. | $15.00 |
| Plates Transfer Fee | If you are transferring plates from another vehicle. | $9.00 |
| Local Surcharge Fee | A mandatory additional fee. | $7.50 |
| Automated Record Fee | Fee for maintaining electronic records. | $1.00 |
Before heading to the BMV, check if you can complete any steps online, such as scheduling an appointment or pre-filling forms. This can significantly reduce your wait time. After successful registration, you will receive your license plates and a registration certificate on the spot. Keep this document in your vehicle as proof of registration.
