Michigan Vehicle Registration

Michigan Vehicle registration laws require motor vehicle owners to properly register their motor vehicle with the Secretary of State of Michigan prior to driving in Michigan. Both new used motor vehicles need to undergo MI vehicle registration, whether they are purchased from a dealer or a private party. New Michigan residents also have to go through the MI registration process if their vehicle was originally registered in a different state. The very initial vehicle registration needs to be done in person. If you are a brand new resident of Michigan, you need to register your motor vehicle immediately.

First time Michigan Vehicle Registration

There are many different reasons to complete the MI vehicle registration the first time:

• After buying a used vehicle
• After moving to Michigan
• Getting a motor vehicle from a family member
• Getting a motor vehicle as a gift
• Inheriting a motor vehicle

Although you have to title your vehicle within fifteen (15) days of its purchase, there is no time limit for completing the MI vehicle registration. However, if you just moved into Michigan, you will have to immediately register your motor vehicle.

Insurance for your Michigan Vehicle Registration

In order to complete the MI registration, you must own insurance on your vehicle. You will not be able to register your vehicle without showing proof of no-fault insurance for Michigan. It is important to note that the state does not recognize insurance policies that are out-of-state.

Paperwork for your Michigan Vehicle Registration

You will be spared of responsibility of MI registration paperwork if you purchase a new or used car from a Michigan dealership. However, if you buy a motor vehicle from a private party, or if you have recently moved to Michigan, you must do the following:

• Have proper identification.
• Have proof of no-fault insurance from Michigan (you cannot have an out-of-state policy).
• Have the title of the vehicle. If you do not know where it is or it is not legible, you must replace the title first before undergoing the MI vehicle registration process.

Fees for Michigan Vehicle Registration

The Secretary of State office bases the MI registration fees on the manufacturer's suggested retail price of the vehicle at the time it was first titled. If you have purchased anything older than 1984, the Secretary of State will not use the suggested retail price, but instead will use the vehicle’s weight.

Michigan Vehicle Registration at the Secretary of State

After you have all of the papers in order, you can visit any Secretary of State Branch office in order to register your motor vehicle. If you've purchased a new vehicle or recently moved to the state of Michigan, you will need to buy new license plates. You will have the option of buying standardized plates choosing from a variety of different specialty plates. Renewing your Michigan Vehicle Registration

The Michigan Secretary of State office sends notices to vehicle owners 45 days before the expiration date of their vehicle’s MI registration by mail. MI registrations can be renewed either by telephone, by mail, in person, or with the Secretary of State's online service.

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