by Armando Martinez
Registering your vehicle in Missouri is an important process that every driver must complete. This process ensures that you are legally allowed to operate your vehicle on Missouri roads and that you are protected in case of an accident. You’ll have 30 days to complete this process from your date of purchase. If you do not complete this process within 30 days, you’ll be charged a $25 penalty fee. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you register your vehicle in Missouri.
Step 1: Obtain a Bill of Sale
The first step in registering your vehicle is to obtain a Bill of Sale. This document should include information like the car's make and model, year, VIN (vehicle identification number), as well as the purchase price and names and addresses of both the buyer and seller. It is important to keep a copy of this document for your records.
Step 2: Obtain the Car Title
The next step is to obtain the car title. You'll need to make sure that it is signed over to you and that all of the fields are properly filled out. If there are any liens on the vehicle, make sure they're paid off before completing your sale.
Step 3: Obtain Insurance
Missouri requires all drivers to have liability insurance, which includes coverage for bodily injury and property damage. Make sure to shop around for the best insurance rates and ensure that you have the minimum required coverage before registering your vehicle.
Step 4: Vehicle Inspection & Emissions Testing
If your vehicle is titled outside of the state of Missouri, you’ll need to complete a VIN and Safety inspection. This can be completed by an authorized Missouri inspection station. You can search the Missouri Highway Patrol website to find your nearest location.
If you live in the counties of St. Louis, St. Charles Franklin and Jefferson, you’ll be required to complete an emissions inspection. You can search the Gateway Vehicle Inspection Program webpage for more information regarding your county requirements and locations nearest you.
Step 5: Complete the Registration Application
The next step is to complete the application for your vehicle registration. You can obtain this form online or from your local Department of Revenue office. The application will ask for information such as the car's make, model, year and VIN (vehicle identification number), as well as your personal information and insurance details.
Step 6: Pay the Fees
Once you have completed the application, you'll need to pay the registration fee. In Missouri, the registration fee is based on the vehicle's weight and can range from $18 to $180. You may also need to pay additional fees for title transfer, license plates, and other services.
Step 7: Submit Your Documents and Fees
Once you have completed the application and paid the fees, it is time to submit your application. You can do this in person at your local Department of Revenue office or by mail. If you choose to mail in your application, make sure to include all required documents and fees.
Step 8: Receive Your License Plate and Registration
Once you've completed the process, you'll receive your license plate and registration in the mail within two weeks. Keep these documents in a safe place as you'll need them to prove that your car is registered and legally allowed to be driven on Missouri roads. You can apply for a temporary license plate by visiting your local licensing office and paying $11.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your vehicle is properly registered and you're protected on the road. Remember, driving without proper registration and insurance can result in fines and other penalties, so be sure to stay legal and safe on the road. Register your vehicle today and start exploring all that Missouri has to offer! If you still have questions, please visit your local Missouri DMV office or visit them here https://dor.mo.gov/motor-vehicle/titling-registration/ for more information.
This article was written by Armando Martinez. Armando Martinez is among the nation’s experts on automotive titling, registration, DMV services and document operations. With nearly two decades of experience across a broad range of financial services functions and some of the largest names in auto, from Wells Fargo to Uber, Armando combines vision and ingenuity with a wealth of information so auto shoppers and sellers can learn from his experience.
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