by Armando Martinez
Are you ready to hit the road in Minnesota? Before you start driving, it's important to make sure your vehicle is properly registered. You’ll need to complete this process within 10 days of your date of purchase in order to avoid penalty fees. Not only is it required by law, but it also ensures that you're protected in case of an accident. Don't wait until it's too late - follow these steps to register your vehicle in Minnesota today!
Step 1: Obtain a Bill of Sale
The first step in registering your vehicle 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 Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services Department or the state DMV in which their vehicle is titled.
Step 3: Obtain Insurance
Minnesota requires all drivers to have liability insurance, which includes coverage for bodily injury and property damage. 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 can obtain this form online or from your local Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) 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 Minnesota, the registration fee is based on the vehicle's age and can range from $33 to $523. 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 DVS 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 have the ability to purchase a 21 day temporary permit which will allow you to legally operate your vehicle until 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 Minnesota roads.
Don't let the stress of registering your vehicle hold you back from enjoying all that Minnesota has to offer. By following these steps, you can ensure that your vehicle is properly registered and you're protected on the road. 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. Register your vehicle today and start exploring all that Minnesota has to offer!
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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