A car registration is an official document, typically a card or paper, issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that proves your vehicle is legally registered with the state. It's your permission to drive the vehicle on public roads. You are legally required to keep it in the vehicle at all times.
The document contains several key pieces of information. The most critical are the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), a unique 17-character code specific to your car, and the license plate number. It also lists the registered owner's name and address, the vehicle's make, model, year, and color. Crucially, it shows the registration's expiration date, which you must renew periodically.
| Key Information on a Car Registration Card | Description |
|---|
| Registered Owner's Name & Address | The legal owner of the vehicle. |
| Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) | The car's unique fingerprint, used for tracking recalls and history. |
| License Plate Number | The number displayed on your vehicle's plates. |
| Vehicle Description | Make, model, year, and sometimes color and body style. |
| Registration Expiration Date | The date by which you must renew your registration. |
| Vehicle Weight | Often required for tax and fee calculations. |
| Fees Paid | May show the amount paid for registration and taxes. |
It's vital to distinguish the registration from the car's title. The title is a certificate of ownership, which you should keep in a safe place, not in the car. The registration is the proof that this owned vehicle is street-legal. You'll need to present this document to law enforcement during a traffic stop. If you sell the car, the registration does not transfer; the new owner must obtain a new one. Always check your specific state's DMV website, as the exact look and requirements can vary.
