Is it legal to have your car registered in another state?
Asked by: Giovanni Fisher | Last update: August 13, 2025Score: 5/5 (17 votes)
Does it matter what state my car is registered in?
The most straightforward answer would be to simply register your car in the state where you drive the most. This could be the same state as the address printed on your driver's license or the address that you've listed as your primary mailing address.
How long can I keep my car in another state?
Most states have a limited grace period during which you need to change your vehicle registration and license to your new address. This varies from state to state but is generally between 30 and 90 days.
Can I register a car in Michigan if I live in Florida?
The Michigan Secretary of State explains that if you are an out-of-state resident and you drive your own car in Michigan for more than 90 days, then you must obtain a Michigan registration for your vehicle. You will need to show proof of No-Fault auto insurance and proof of your out-of-state registration or title.
Does it matter what state your car title is from?
Per DIrect Auto, your new car title comes from the state where you buy the car. If you live in a different state, make sure you take it to your local Department of Motor Vehicles when you register the car in your home state. If you are buying a car out of state, make sure you understand their title process.
Can I Register a Car in a Different State Than My License?
Can I title a car in one state and live in another?
California allows nonresidents to register a vehicle in the state if the car is based in California or primarily used on California highways.
Do I need to retitle my car when I move to Tennessee?
Someone moving from another state must file an application for certificate of title and registration through their local county clerk.
Can your car be registered in one state and insured in another?
Registering a vehicle in one state while holding an insurance policy in another is not permitted for most drivers. This restriction is due to variations in traffic laws and minimum insurance coverage requirements. Attempting to insure a vehicle in a state where you don't live might be insurance fraud.
Can I buy a car in another state and register it in Michigan?
Yes, just make sure you get a written or typed bill of sale and the clear title. Then you will have to go to your County title office and apply for a Michigan title. If it's like Ohio, you will have to have a vehicle inspection and pay the sales tax.
Does your license address have to match your car registration?
Generally speaking, your driver's license and registration need to match. This means that these documents should have the same home address.
What happens if you don't change your car registration?
Different states will have different penalties if you're caught driving an unregistered vehicle or a car with expired registration around, but you can expect to pay expensive fines, receive a warning or ticket, and even have your car towed.
How long can you store a car without driving it?
The time you can go without driving your vehicle depends on several factors, such as age, overall condition and where and how it is being stored. Generally speaking, letting your car sit unused for a few weeks or months is acceptable, but only if you prepare your vehicle in advance.
Can you transfer your car to another state?
You can transport a car from one state to another in several ways: use a tow dolly or trailer, hire a professional driver, drive it yourself, send it by train. However, the easiest, quickest, most convenient and affordable way is state to state auto transport.
Why would someone register their car in a different state?
Some people will try to purchase and register their vehicles in states without any sales tax when they purchase an expensive vehicle. Additionally, some car collectors try to register their older vehicles in a state where the inspection standards are lower than where they live.
How long can you keep a car registered in a different state?
You can drive a car registered in another state, but there's usually a limit to how long you're able to do so before changing your registration. Generally, you can drive out-of-state for up to 30 days without having to re-register the car.
Is vehicle registration local state or federal?
Driver licensing and vehicle registration in the United States are handled by the state government in all states but Hawaii, where local governments perform DMV functions.
What are the disadvantages of buying a car out of state?
On the downside, buying a car out of state might be more complicated, and the costs of getting the car home might counteract any savings you'd otherwise have. You may also have to spend more time having an out-of-state vehicle inspected before your DMV will issue a registration tag.
Can you get a ticket in another state for expired tags?
Yes you can be cited for expired registration in any state since most require that any vehicle operated within that state must have and display current registration tags. If you have established residence or in some states will be there for an extended period, you must register your vehicle in that state.
What is title jumping in Michigan?
If a person buys a vehicle without putting it in their name and then sells it, it is known as title jumping. This illegal act is also referred to as title skipping or floating.
Can someone put a car in your name without you knowing?
Yes, it's possible for someone to steal your identity and buy a car in your name.
Can my car be insured in two states?
No, there's no such thing as a separate multi-state car insurance policy since a standard car insurance policy generally provides "out-of-state" coverage in all 50 states.
Can I register a car in Florida with an out-of-state license?
The only photo identification acceptable are: (1) a Florida, out-of-state, US territory, Canadian driver license or a state issued ID card with photo, or (2) a valid passport of any country. 3. Bring in your original title if in your possession.
Can I buy a car in another state and register it in Tennessee?
When registering a vehicle from a different state you must surrender the out of state title to our office. You have 30 days to register your vehicle in the state of Tennessee from the first day you arrive.
What states allow non-resident vehicle registration?
- California.
- Delaware.
- Indiana.
- Kentucky.
- Maine.
- Massachusetts.
- New York.
- North Dakota.
How much does it cost to switch a title over to Tennessee?
Fees for new Tennessee title and registration: $99.50-If ownership and lien have already been perfected on out of state title. $110.50-To establish new ownership with a lien notation.