Moss: What to know when registering your out-of-state vehicle

Craig Moss

Courtesy of Arizona Auto License Services

Moving to a new home is always stressful. It becomes even more complicated when moving to a new state. After settling in the last thing you want to do is to go sit at an MVD field office all day to register your car only to find out that you forgot to bring a piece of paperwork or to get your car emissions testing done if needed.

With each state seemingly having its own rules for registering your vehicle, it is important to know the rules of your new home state. Following these steps when registering your vehicle in Arizona will help prevent unnecessary headaches when you head to an MVD field office or an authorized third-party service provider.

Emissions test

The first thing that can catch people off guard when moving to Arizona is that you may need an emissions test for your vehicle. There are many locations throughout the Valley for you to do this. It is a simple task. You pull up, the attendant tests your vehicle and you are on your way. If you happen to fail the test, they will advise you on what you need to do to come up to standard.

If you live in a county that requires an emission test you must pass the emission test before you can register your vehicle. So, follow all guidelines and if your vehicle fails, speak with a mechanic to get your vehicle in proper working order.

Provide proof of insurance

Arizona requires that all usable motor vehicles have at least liability coverage insurance through an authorized provider in Arizona. The minimum level of insurance coverage is typically $15,000 bodily injury for one person and $30,000 for two or more individuals. Insurance must also cover at least $10,000 in property damage. Speak with your insurance provider to find the best plan for you and to make sure you are in compliance with Arizona state laws.

Provide proof of ownership

When visiting an MVD field office or an authorized third-party service provider in Arizona you must surrender your out-of-state title when applying for your title and registration. If you have a loan on the vehicle and the title is being held by the bank or another lender, you may still register your vehicle in Arizona, but you will not be able to transfer the title until the lien is released and you receive the title. If you are in this situation, registration on your vehicle is necessary and can be done if you bring your current registration from your home state.

What to do if you don’t have the title

When moving, it is not uncommon for papers to get misplaced. Don’t worry, if you can’t find the vehicle documentation, you can apply for a 90-day permit that will allow you to legally drive your vehicle in Arizona while you get the proper documentation. You will need your current out-of-state registration to prove ownership of the vehicle to get the permit.

Average cost of registration

The last thing you need when moving from another state is more expenses, but you will need to pay fees to the MVD to register your car. The cost of registering your vehicle will depend on the type and value of your vehicle. The registration fees are computed by the MVD according to their formula, but you can get an idea of the cost by using the Arizona Vehicle License Tax Calculator at arizona-vlt-calculator.pages.dev.

Registering a vehicle in Arizona doesn’t have to take up a whole day or stress you out. When it comes down to it, if you are prepared, it is a simple process. Arizona has many MVD field offices throughout the Valley. You can also visit an authorized third-party service provider to complete your transaction which can be quicker and does not require an appointment. Consider one of these locations when transferring your title and registration for quick, easy, and knowledgeable service.

Craig Moss is a manager at Arizona Auto License Services, an authorized Arizona MVD third-party vehicle service provider with six locations including Phoenix, Avondale, Laveen and Flagstaff. Go to azauto.biz.