In New Jersey, if you buy a new car, you must register it within ten days. The procedures for registering a vehicle in the state of New Jersey can change depending on which county you live in.
In most cases, you’ll need to show proof of your identity, residency, and the car’s title and insurance. You must also pay a registration fee and a sales tax, depending on the county. Some states require you to submit your vehicle for an emissions test.
There is specific documentation required when registering a vehicle with the Motor Vehicle Commission, and it is helpful to know what to carry before making the trip. It’s also a good idea to be prepared to pay any applicable taxes or fees. Although the process of registering your vehicle in the state of New Jersey may seem daunting at first, it is a necessary one.
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Collect All Relevant Information
To register your vehicle in the state of New Jersey, you will need to compile the appropriate paperwork. Some common examples are evidence of ownership, proof of insurance, and photo identification.
A copy of the title or registration from the prior state can serve as proof of ownership. You can present a surety bond in the absence of either of these items. Then, you’ll need to show proof of insurance in the form of a recent insurance card bearing your name. Lastly, you’ll need to present some proof of identity, such as a driver’s license.
Get in touch with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles ahead of time to ensure you’re prepared with the proper paperwork. When you have all the appropriate paperwork, it’s best to keep it in a binder or folder. In this way, you can quickly retrieve them whenever necessary.
Calculate All Costs
When purchasing a motor vehicle in Garden State, you may be subject to various taxes and fees.
You’ll have to fork over some cash for the registration fees. The amount will depend on the vehicle you purchase and the length of time you intend to keep it.
Aside from the sticker price, a sales tax is also to be paid. Typically, this percentage equals 6.625% of the car’s total price. Multiplying the car’s price by the applicable tax rate yields the total sales tax due. If you buy a car for $10,000, the sales tax will be $663.25.
Your dealer will be able to inform you of any additional costs, such as title or documentation fees, that may be incurred.
Find Your County’s Driver’s License Office
The first step in registering a vehicle in the state of New Jersey is locating the appropriate licensing office.
You can look up the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission online (MVC) if you need to visit a New Jersey licensing office. Utilize the site’s search function to locate an office that issues licenses in your area. This will give you the office’s location and how to get there.
Verify that the office you need to visit is open. Some businesses are open on Saturdays, however, most are only open throughout the week. If you need to renew your registration or get your car inspected, this is the place to do it.
Once you’ve located the nearest office, you’ll need to bring your driver’s license, proof of ownership, and evidence of insurance to register your vehicle. You’ll also need a suitable method of payment to present at the office. Final note: if you have them, bring the title and registration for your vehicle.
Please Finish Signing Up
First, you’ll need to submit an Application for Certificate of Ownership (Form OS/SS-7) to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Registration Division. You can get this form at the MVC’s website or via their office in your area. Details about the car you own, like the year, make, and VIN, as well as your name and address, will be requested. Additionally, you will be required to produce evidence of ownership, such as a bill of sale, title, or registration from the preceding state.
After filling out the form, you will need to pay a registration charge that varies with the type of vehicle and the length of time it will be registered. You must also pay sales tax if you bought the car from a dealer in another state.
The next step is to visit the MVC office in person, with the completed form and payment. They may also request insurance documentation or other supporting paperwork.
If everything checks out, you’ll soon be the proud owner of a license plate and registration card for your vehicle. If you are new to New Jersey or your car is older than six years, you may additionally need to have it inspected. Temporary license plates may be required if you plan to drive the car before the registration is finalized.
There you have it! You now have all the information you need to register a vehicle in New Jersey. Take care to have the car’s title and insurance information on hand. You’ll also have to pay any applicable taxes and fees and get your vehicle inspected. Last but not least, complete the registration form and submit it to the MVC office in your area. If you follow these instructions, you should have no trouble getting your car registered. If you stick to the steps, you’ll have your car registered in no time.
