In Arizona, vehicle registration, overseen by the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) of the state Department of Transportation (DOT), is a legal requirement for residents and non-residents. This process involves registering motor vehicles, trailers, or semitrailers and displaying the appropriate license plates for the current registration year.
Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to a civil penalty of $300, as detailed in Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) Section 28-2532.
Whether someone is new to Arizona or managing vehicle registration, understanding the state's regulations is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure a smooth, legal ownership experience.
How To Register a Car in Arizona?
When someone buys a new or used vehicle from a private seller or dealership in Arizona, they need to register it with the state's MVD.
The previous registration becomes invalid after the sale or transfer of ownership. The new owner cannot drive the vehicle until it's registered or they purchase a temporary 3-Day Restricted Use Permit from an MVD office or Authorized Third Party Driver License Location.
To register the vehicle, the owner must visit an MVD branch office in person.
Before going, they should have proof of vehicle insurance and an emissions compliance form (available at any AZ MVD office) if they live in Phoenix, Tucson, or the surrounding areas. Most vehicles five years old or newer are exempt from emissions testing. Aside from those, the owner needs to bring the following:
- A completed Title and Registration Application (Form 96-0236)
- Proof of vehicle ownership (notarized car title or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin)
- Photo identification such as the driver's license or ID card (list of acceptable documents )
- Lien details, if applicable
- Payment for the registration fees
If a vehicle is purchased from a dealership, the dealer usually submits the registration documents. It is essential to confirm this to avoid any confusion.
The AZ MVD allows the vehicle to be registered and titled simultaneously. After submitting the required documents and fees, the owner will receive a paper receipt as proof of registration until the actual registration and license plate tabs arrive in the mail.
In Arizona, registration is valid for one year, two years, or five years. If the vehicle is exempt from emissions testing, the owner is eligible for the five-year registration option. Meanwhile, some trailers may qualify for permanent registration.
Vehicle Registration for New Residents in Arizona
When someone becomes a new resident of Arizona, the state law requires them to register their vehicle with the MVD immediately after establishing residency. Residency in Arizona is not just about having an address in the state. The state considers someone a resident if any of the following applies to them:
- They obtain an Arizona driver's license.
- They are registered to vote in Arizona.
- They are employed in Arizona (excluding seasonal agricultural workers).
- Their children attend school in Arizona without paying out-of-state tuition.
- They own an Arizona business that houses and operates vehicles in the state.
- They remain in the state for seven months or more in a calendar year.
- They own an Arizona business that transports people or goods within the state.
The required documents for vehicle registration for a new resident of Arizona are generally the same as for existing Arizona residents, but there are some additional requirements for new residents.
If a new resident does not have their car's registration certificate or title, they must get a Level I inspection. This inspection is necessary to verify the vehicle identification number (VIN). The good news is that MVD offices provide this Level I inspection service free of charge.
In addition to the standard, new residents must also provide:
- Their out-of-state vehicle title or, if there is a lienholder, the current out-of-state registration certificate
- Their out-of-state license plates
Proof of car insurance is crucial when a new resident registers a vehicle in Arizona. The insurance policy must meet the minimum coverage amounts required by the state.
This includes at least $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $20,000 for property damage.
Vehicle Registration for Military Members in Arizona
Arizona military residents should register their vehicles with the state's MVD following the same steps as other Arizona residents.
If a military member is stationed in Arizona but is not an Arizona resident, they are not required to register their vehicle with the MVD. However, depending on their location and situation, they may need to comply with the state's emissions laws, so they should check with their company commander.
If an out-of-state military member decides to establish residency in Arizona, they must apply for an Arizona vehicle registration certificate. This requires visiting an MVD office with the same documents described under the "Vehicle Registration for New Residents in Arizona" section.
Notably, military members may be exempt from paying the vehicle license tax portion of the registration fees. They must provide a signed Special Military Exemption Affidavit from their commanding officer along with the other required documents to claim this exemption.
However, if the military member is deployed overseas but their spouse remains in Arizona, the vehicle license tax applies if the member's name is listed on the vehicle title.
Arizona Fleet Registration
In Arizona, vehicle owners with two or more vehicles can set up a fleet registration account instead of maintaining individual registrations that expire at different times during the year. With a fleet account, all cars will share the same registration expiration date, making it more convenient to manage.
To learn more about this registration type, visit the "Fleet Registration" service page on the official AZ DOT website.
Arizona Vehicle Permits
The state offers several different permit options for those needing to operate a vehicle legally in Arizona temporarily or while completing registration requirements.
3-Day Trip Permit
This permit allows someone to legally drive an unregistered vehicle on Arizona roads for a short trip to apply for registration or title, get emissions testing, vehicle inspections, or make repairs to comply with emissions and inspection requirements.
A Restricted Use 3-Day Permit can be obtained for $1 online at the AZ MVD Now system or at any MVD or Authorized Third-Party office.
30-Day General Use Permit
This permit allows an unregistered car to be driven on the roads for 30 days. It has no residency requirements or movement restrictions.
This 12-month one-time permit costs $15 and can be purchased at the AZ MVD Now system or at MVD/Third-Party offices.
90-Day Resident Permit
Arizona residents without complete registration documentation can get a 90-day Resident Permit for $15 from MVD/Third Party offices.
This allows them to operate the vehicle while obtaining needed documents. Registration fees are calculated based on the permit issue date.
90-Day Non-Resident (Drive Out) Permit
This $15 permit, which can be purchased from MVD/Third-Party offices, allows someone who bought a vehicle in Arizona to drive it out of the state for 90 days and register it in their home state.
Individuals must present their out-of-state identification and the assigned title or dealer invoice to obtain this permit.
Temporary Registration Plate (TRP)
When a vehicle is purchased from a licensed dealer in Arizona, they will issue a 45-day Temporary Registration Plate to allow the vehicle to be operated for any purpose during that period.
Arizona License Plates
When registering a vehicle in Arizona, the MVD will provide a license plate that must be attached to the car before leaving the office. The corresponding license plate renewal tabs will be mailed separately.
While standard license plates are issued, the AZ MVD also allows vehicle owners to purchase personalized and specialty plates for an additional cost. These specialized plates come in various designs to suit different interests and causes.
Some examples of the specialty plates available include military/veteran plates honoring those who served, collegiate plates supporting Arizona universities, and cause plates that raise funds and awareness for issues like Alzheimer's disease or cancer research.
How To Obtain Vanity License Plates in Arizona?
Obtaining vanity license plates, also known as personalized plates, in Arizona is simple. The vehicle owner can select and order their desired plate configuration online through the Specialty and Personalized Plates page in the AZ MVD Now system.
For each personalized plate order, one license plate will be issued with the requested custom characters and design. Note that fees for these specialty vanity plates are charged in addition to the regular vehicle registration fees.
The maximum number of characters on Arizona personalized plates varies depending on the design and layout. Guidelines on character limits are provided during the online ordering process.
How Much Does Vehicle Registration Cost in Arizona?
In Arizona, vehicle registration costs include various fees, including an $8 registration fee, a $4 title fee, and a $1.50 air quality research fee.
A significant part of the cost is the Vehicle License Tax (VLT), calculated based on the vehicle's value. The VLT is $2.80 per $100 of assessed value for new cars, while for used cars, it is $2.89 per $100.
The assessed value is determined by taking 60% of the manufacturer's base retail price and reducing it by 16.25% for every year after the vehicle's initial registration in Arizona.
For instance, if a new vehicle has a base retail price of $30,000, the first-year VLT would be $504. If the car is valued at $18,000, the first-year VLT would be $302.40. This amount decreases each year as the vehicle's value depreciates.
Note that vehicles registered as commercial vehicles will incur additional costs. Furthermore, postage fees may apply if the registration is processed by mail.
How To Renew Vehicle Registration in Arizona?
Renewing vehicle registration in Arizona can be done through multiple methods, which provide individuals with flexibility and convenience. From renewing in person to using mail, phone, or online services, the AZ MVD offers various options to suit different preferences.
Renew in Person
Individuals can renew their vehicle registration in person at an MVD or an authorized third-party office. They should bring their current registration and any necessary documents, such as proof of insurance or emissions test results, if applicable.
Knowledgeable staff will assist in completing the renewal process and issuing the updated registration.
Renew by Mail
Those who prefer to renew by mail can pay using a check or money order payable to the Motor Vehicle Division, with the license plate number written on the check. The payment and required documents should be mailed to the following address:
Arizona Department of Transportation
Motor Vehicle Division
PO Box 29008
Phoenix, AZ 85038
Note that a $25 fee is charged for any returned check by a financial institution. Furthermore, this may result in the cancellation of vehicle registrations and driving privileges.
Renew by Phone
Another option available in Arizona is to renew by phone. Individuals can use the automated phone system by dialing 1.888.713.3031 to renew their vehicle registration.
Then, they can pay in cash at any 500+ CheckFreePay locations across Arizona.
Renew Online
Renewing online through the Registration Renewal service at the AZ MVD Now system is typically the fastest and most convenient method.
Individuals can renew their registration online without needing a renewal notice. They simply need to enter the required vehicle information, such as the plate number and the last two digits of the VIN, and follow the prompts to complete the renewal process.
It is worth noting that registration renewal dates may vary. Some registrations are due on the last day of the month, while others are due on the 15th. Individuals should refer to their renewal notice or check their current registration to determine the specific due date.
Early renewal is permitted based on emissions test requirements. If an emissions test is not required, individuals can renew up to six months before the expiration date. However, if an emissions test is necessary, renewal can be done up to 90 days before the expiration by presenting the current registration at the test station.
How To Check if a Vehicle Is Currently Registered in Arizona?
While the AZ MVD Now website does not explicitly provide a tool or service for checking a vehicle's registration status, individuals can utilize the system to request Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs).
These records often contain information about the vehicle's registration status, including whether it is currently registered, its registration history, any title issues, and other relevant details. However, accessing this information typically requires proper authorization and compliance with state regulations governing the use of MVR data.
Another way to obtain a copy of the MVR is to complete and submit a Motor Vehicle Record Request form along with a payment of $5 for a certified five-year driving record or $3 for an uncertified three-year driving record, either by mail or at any MVD office or authorized third-party location. The form must be signed and notarized or witnessed by an MVD agent.
When requesting an MVR or checking a vehicle's registration status, individuals are usually required to provide specific details about the vehicle, such as the VIN, license plate number, make, model, and year, and the purpose of the request.
For any issues or additional guidance regarding the vehicle registration status, contact the AZ MVD or the appropriate local/authorized third-party office.