How-to · Updated June 10, 2026
How to Register a Vehicle After Buying It
Just bought a car privately? Here's how to title and register it — the documents to bring, the deadline, the taxes and fees, and what to do if there's no title.
You bought the car, you have the keys — now you need to make it legally yours and get plates. Here’s exactly how to title and register a vehicle you bought from a private seller.
What to bring to the DMV
Gather these before you go (or before you start the online process, where available):
- The signed-over title — the seller must have completed the assignment section (and had it notarized if your state requires it).
- A bill of sale showing the price, date, and both parties. This sets your sales tax and proves the purchase. Create one here if you don’t have it.
- An odometer disclosure — usually on the title or bill of sale.
- Proof of insurance in your name for the vehicle.
- Your photo ID and proof of residency if required.
- Your state’s title/registration application (for example, Texas Form 130-U, or the equivalent in your state).
Watch the deadline
Most states require you to title and register within 10 to 30 days of the sale. Miss it and you can owe late penalties on top of the normal fees. Find your state’s exact window and required forms on its DMV page — every one of our state requirement pages links to the official source.
What you’ll pay
- Sales / use tax — calculated on the price recorded on your bill of sale (report the real price; understating it can be flagged as fraud).
- Title fee and registration/plate fees — vary by state and vehicle.
- Possibly an inspection (emissions or safety) depending on your state and county.
If there’s a problem with the title
- No title / lost title: the seller should apply for a duplicate before selling. Some states allow a bonded title if the title can’t be produced.
- Lien still on the title: make sure the seller’s loan is paid off and the lien released before you pay.
- Out-of-state title: allowed, but you may need an inspection or VIN verification.
After you register
You’ll get plates (or transfer yours), a registration card, and eventually a new title in your name. Keep your bill of sale with your records — it’s your proof of what you paid and when you became the owner.
In short
Bring the signed title + bill of sale + odometer + insurance + ID + application, beat your state’s deadline, and pay the tax and fees. If you still need the bill of sale, make one free in a few minutes, and check your state’s exact requirements before you go.
Frequently asked questions
What do I need to register a car I bought from a private seller?
Bring the title signed over to you, a bill of sale showing the price, an odometer disclosure, proof of insurance, your photo ID, and your state's title/registration application. Some states also require an emissions or safety inspection. You'll pay sales/use tax plus title and registration fees.
How long do I have to register a car after buying it?
It varies by state, but most give you 10 to 30 days from the date of sale to title and register the vehicle. Registering late can trigger penalties, so don't delay — check your state's deadline on its DMV page.
Can I register a car with just a bill of sale and no title?
Usually not. Most states require the signed title to register. A bill of sale alone is generally only enough for older, title-exempt vehicles or through a bonded-title process. Check your state's specific rules.