by Armando Martinez
Step 1: Obtain a Bill of Sale
The first step in registering your vehicle in Michigan is to obtain a Bill of Sale. This document should include information like the car's make and model, year, VIN (vehicle identification number), as well as the purchase price and names and addresses of both the buyer and seller. It's a good idea to keep a copy of this document for your records.
Step 2: Obtain the Car Title
The next step is to obtain the car title. You'll need to make sure that it is signed over to you and that all of the fields are properly filled out. If there are any liens on the vehicle, make sure they're paid off before completing your sale. If your seller does not have possession of their title they’ll need to apply for a duplicate title through the Michigan Department of State or the state DMV in which their vehicle is titled.
Step 3: Obtain Insurance
Michigan requires all drivers to have no-fault insurance, which includes Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. Make sure to shop around for the best insurance rates and ensure that you have the minimum required coverage before registering your vehicle.
Step 4: Complete the Registration Application
The next step is to complete the application for your vehicle registration. You’ll have 15 days to complete this process from the date you purchased your vehicle. A $15 late fee will be assessed if you’re late. You can obtain this form online or from your local Secretary of State office. The application will ask for information such as the car's make, model, year and VIN (vehicle identification number), as well as your personal information and insurance details.
Step 5: Pay the Fees
Once you have completed the application, you'll need to pay the registration fee. In Michigan, the registration fee is based on the vehicle's weight and can range from $36 to $830. You may also need to pay additional fees for title transfer, license plates, and other services.
Step 6: Submit Your Documents and Fees
Once you have completed the application and paid the fees, it is time to submit your application. You can do this in person at your local Secretary of State office or by mail. If you choose to mail in your application, make sure to include all required documents and fees.
Step 7: Receive Your License Plate and Registration
Once you've completed the process, you'll receive your license plate and registration in the mail within two weeks. Keep these documents in a safe place as you'll need them to prove that your car is registered and legally allowed to be driven on Michigan roads. If you need to obtain a temporary registration permit, you can obtain this permit by visiting the Secretary of State office and show proof of insurance and vehicle ownership.
Conclusion
Now that you know the steps to register your vehicle in Michigan, you're well on your way to hitting the road. If you have any questions or concerns about registering your car with the Secretary of State, contact your local office for assistance. Remember, driving without proper registration and insurance can result in fines and other penalties, so be sure to stay legal and safe on the road. Contact your local DMV if you have any questions.
This article was written by Armando Martinez. Armando Martinez is among the nation’s experts on automotive titling, registration, DMV services and document operations. With nearly two decades of experience across a broad range of financial services functions and some of the largest names in auto, from Wells Fargo to Uber, Armando combines vision and ingenuity with a wealth of information so auto shoppers and sellers can learn from his experience.
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