How to Register Your Car in Tennessee: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Do you remember your first car? Many people buy their first vehicle in their late teens or early 20s. Even if it was a dated sedan or a rusted old van, it was yours, and boy, it was magical.
Whether you are new to car ownership, are replacing an old vehicle, or have recently moved to the state, Tennessee car registration may feel like a hassle, especially for new residents or those purchasing out-of-state cars. Luckily, with the right knowledge, the process can be straightforward and painless.
Introduction to Tennessee Car Registration
In Tennessee, any vehicle driven on a public road must have a registration and license plate. The registration identifies the car, its owner, and its use (general or commercial), connecting it to both the owner and the state.
States use registration information to track the number and condition of vehicles on their roads. This knowledge contributes to tax assessments, while the registration fee helps pay for city planning and street repairs. A valid vehicle registration is also useful as proof of ownership.
Eligibility for Vehicle Registration
If you just completed a motor vehicle transaction or moved to the Volunteer State, you must meet specific eligibility requirements before registering your vehicle with the county clerk. The two main prerequisites to prove for a Tennessee car registration are residency and ownership of the car to be registered.
To prove residency, you'll need a Tennessee ID or driver's license, a current paycheck, or a current Tennessee auto insurance policy. You can prove ownership by providing a copy of the vehicle title and, if available, the current registration. You may need a letter from the lien holder if you recently purchased the car with a loan.
Depending on the situation, you may also need to provide other documents. Common forms you might need include a bill of sale with the price of the vehicle, a manufacturer's statement of origin for out-of-state cars, the name and address of the vehicle lien holder, and emissions test paperwork.
The Vehicle Registration Process in Tennessee
Car registration in Tennessee varies depending on the type of vehicle and registration. For a new car, you must present the county clerk with the manufacturer's statement of origin, the new vehicle invoice, and a copy of your current registration if you want to transfer your current license plate to the new car. If registering a used vehicle, you must provide a valid certificate of title, an odometer disclosure statement, and a copy of an existing registration when transferring a license plate.
When moving to Tennessee, you must fill out an application for title and register through your local county clerk's office. The clerk needs a copy of your current out-of-state registration and the name and address of the vehicle's lien holder, if any.
Complete a new Tennessee car registration at your local county clerk's office. If you received a renewal notice, you can complete the registration online. You'll need to provide the appropriate paperwork for your vehicle and pay any applicable fee and sales tax.
The fees vary by county and vehicle type. For example, in Nashville, the registration cost for a private passenger vehicle is $29 plus a Metro Vehicle Regulatory fee of $55. In Washington County, you'll only pay the $29 renewal fee.
Motor Vehicle Transactions in Tennessee
Tennessee DMV car registration requirements don't have to diminish the excitement of car buying and ownership. You can still have fun looking for your next vehicle, whether it's a brand-new Tesla or an old Jeep for family camp-outs at Spring Creek.
Buying a Vehicle: What You Need To Know
When purchasing a car, loan preapproval is a must. That way, you know how much of a car you can afford based on your credit report and income.
Don't forget to consider insurance and fuel costs as well. Insurance costs are usually higher for new cars than used cars, but used cars are often less fuel-efficient than newer models. These predictable costs should factor into monthly estimates when car shopping.
Transferring Out-of-State Registrations
Tennessee car registration requirements for out-of-state purchases are similar to those for new residents. You must apply for the title and registration before the out-of-state temporary vehicle tag expires.
Take all essential documents — out-of-state title, certificate of origin, odometer statement, bill of sale, and emissions paperwork — to your county clerk. You'll need to pay the usual fees and the difference in the tax rate between the two states. Your county might also impose a local tax.
Renewal Process and Timely Registration for Insurance
Unlike other states, you don't need to show proof of insurance for car registration in Tennessee. State law only requires motorists to prove financial responsibility, which most drivers show through liability insurance.
That said, you do need proof of registration to purchase Tennessee car insurance. Also, you'll need evidence of annual renewals to maintain your policy.
Protect Your Vehicle With the Right Insurance
While owning and registering a car is a financial responsibility, you can find cheap car insurance in Tennessee and eliminate many risks. Get back to the joy of riding around carefree. Check out EverQuote to compare policies and find the one that's right for you.