It is a state law that you must register your personal or commercial vehicle in the state of New York. Although the process may seem tedious, registering your car is essential as it ensures the safety of you, others, and your community as a whole.

Why do I need to register my car in New York?

It’s required to register your vehicle in New York every year or every two years, similar to your required annual vehicle inspection in New York. There are certain steps you must take and certain documentation needed to register your car.

Where can I register my car in NY?

Unfortunately, you are unable to register your vehicle in New York online. You must visit a DMV office in New York to complete your registration. However, it is highly encouraged that you make a reservation on the DMV website to ensure that you have an appointment when you are registering your car.

Additionally, you can save time by starting your registration process online before your scheduled appointment at the DMV. If your vehicle has an out of state title, you may not be able to use the online service.

Who is required to register a car in New York?

Everyone is required to register their vehicle in the state of New York. If you are a business owner who uses a vehicle for business, you will need a commercial vehicle registraion.

What do I need to register a car in New York?

If you are planning on registering your vehicle in New York, you will need to have key documents with you to successfully register your car. You’ll need to bring these documents with you to the DMV.

To register a car in New York, you will need the following:

• Proof of valid New York car insurance
• The original title of your car or other proof of ownership
• Bill of sale and proof of sales tax payment
• Valid ID (New York State driver’s license, permit, passport, non-driver ID, or other valid form of identification)
• A completed Vehicle Registration Application

What are the costs of registering my car in New York?

There are fees that come along with registering your vehicle in New York. You may be required to pay the following first-time registration fees:

• Sales tax
• Vehicle plate fee or registration transfer fee
• A title of certificate fee of $50
• Vehicle use tax (in most counties)
• 1 or 2 year registration fee

You can estimate your registration fees and taxes using the New York DMV’s online estimation tool. The New York DMV accepts cash, credit or debit cards, and checks.

I have a trailer behind my vehicle, do I need to register that too?

Yes, if you are hauling a trailer, you are also required to register that as well. For information regarding the prices for registering your trailer, contact your DMV.

What are the car insurance requirements for the state of New York?

You are required to have minimum car insurance protection if you are a legal driver in the state of New York. In order to register your car, you'll need proof of valid car insurance coverage of at least the state's minimum coverage.

You will be required to have insurance coverage for bodily protection per person and per accident, liability per death and per accident, and property damage. These coverages are mandatory as it provides financial protection for you and others who may be involved in an accident.

In New York, all car owners are required to have at least the following car insurance coverages:

Liability:

• Bodily injury: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
• Liability for death: $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident
• Property damage: $10,000 per accident

Personal injury protection:

• $50,000 per person

Bodily injury caused by an uninsured motorist:

• $25,000 per person
• $50,000 per accident

While these are the bare minimum car insurance coverages required to legally operate your car, insurance agents often recommend purchasing more coverage, including comprehensive and collision coverage, for more protection if your car is involved in an accident or is damaged.

Car insurance is required to register your car, and you can shop around to find the cheapest New York car insurance. Consider getting quotes from at least three different car insurance companies so you can compare the cost and coverages to find the best value.

Visit Clearsurance’s car insurance rankings page to find car insurance company options based on your personal needs. You can find a ranking of the top-rated companies in your zip code according to customers.

The content on this site is offered only as a public service to the web community and does not constitute solicitation or provision of legal advice. This site should not be used as a substitute for obtaining legal advice from an insurance company or an attorney licensed or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. You should always consult a suitably qualified attorney regarding any specific legal problem or matter. The comments and opinions expressed on this site are of the individual author and may not reflect the opinions of the insurance company or any individual attorney.