While vehicle registration process can be similar throughout all states, each states imposes their own guidance on the requirements to register a new vehicle. Registering passenger vehicle like a motorcycle, car or truck is the most common but other vehicle types require registration as well including motorhomes, RVs, trailers, and boats.
If a motor vehicles is not registered with the state of the owner’s residence, the governing state department may not allow the vehicle to be driven legally on the road.
Additionally, the operator of any of these vehicles may be required to obtain a specialty license depending on the state’s requirements.
Vehicle Registration Process
Though most states have similar registration laws and processes, the processes required for some vehicles like trailers, motorhomes, modulars or RVs can be quite different from that required for motorcycles, cars or trucks. The basic vehicle registration process for all these other vehicles are as follows:
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- Applications for registration: An application has to be submitted to the governing state office for registering and titling vehicles. This can be the Department or Division of Motor vehicles (DMV), the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD), the Department of Transportation (DoT), the Department of Revenue (DoR), or some other similar governing body. The application should include the overall information of the vehicle like the VIN (vehicle identification number), make, and model. It should be submitted immediately after buying a new or used vehicle and applying for the title. Without a vehicle title, your will not be able to get the plate and tags or stickers in order to be able to drive the vehicle legally on public roadways. While most states require that you title a vehicle not all require that you register it. Some types of trailers and boats do not require registration.
- Identification of the owner: For individuals, the driver’s license number is used and associated with the vehicle registration. If a specialty license is required for operation of the vehicle being registered like a boating license or specialty class license for larger vehicles (like RVs), this must be attained before attempting to register the vehicle. For businesses, the identification number used for the registration is the tax account number.
- Ownership verification: The owner has to submit legal paperwork that proves they are the legal owners of the vehicle like a certificate, title, or bill of sale.. The owner may also be required to submit proof of identity like an ID card or birth certificate.
- Pay registration fees: The registration fees of motor vehicles vary from state to state. Based on the type of vehicle, use, weight and several other factors, the fees that need to be paid will differ. After the initial registration, registration renewal is required semiannually, annually, or biennially depending on some or all of the factors mentioned above. Moving to another state will require that the owner register his or her vehicle again in their new state of residence. After paying the registration fees, a license plate (or plates) will be issued.
Registration Renewal Processes
While license plates need only be replaced every 5 years or more, the registration of the vehicle must be updated much more frequently. The registration renewal process can be completed in many ways depending on your state of residence. Some general processes are given below:
- Renewal online: Many states offer the option to renew your vehicles registration online anywhere from 30-90 days prior to its expiration. While not all states offer this option, it is the easiest and most convenient option. In order to pay your registration fees, you will need a major credit card. eTags provides an online renewal option for Florida residents and soon residents of California as well. As an alternate to process online through the state, eTags promises faster processing, an immediately available digital copy, a free vehicle history report, comprehensive customer support, and more.
- Renew by Mail: Most states offer a mail-in option for registration renewal. If you are planning to use this method, make sure to send in the request well ahead of the expiration date allowing time for the state to receive the request and for you, in turn, to receive your update certificate and sticker or tab.
- Renewal in person: Most states, if not all, also offer the option to renew your registration in person by visiting your nearest DMV or governing agency in charge of this process. Some states may require that you fill out a form but all states require that you show proper paperwork (like old registration, proof of insurance) and pay the fees with cash, check or money order, or possibly credit card.
183 comments
Thinking about buying a homemade trailer for hauling my Bob cat, but it’s never been registered. I live in MT, is this doable or should I just walk away?
Hey there, etags doesn’t operate in MT. It’s prob best to contact your local DMV. Here’s some general info found online: https://dojmt.gov/driving/vehicle-title-and-registration/#generalregistrationinfo
I sold jet skis to an individual from another state. I forgot to take the tag. Now the buyer is not returning my calls, nor tag to date. What are my options?
We’re not sure where you’re located, but if it’s FL: And you know the license plate number (it should be on the previous reg), you could contact the DMV and let them know the situation. They should be able to void it in the system. It may be the same process in another state, but we don’t know for sure. It’s best to contact your local DMV for details.
Hi there. We are trying to sell our pop up camper on consignment through the dealer we originally bought it from in NC. The dealer is requiring we hand over our title, unsigned, for them to sell on their lot. I’m concerned about handing this over since they’ll have our camper and the title. Is this required?
It should cause you concern but it may not necessarily be incorrect or illegal. We recommend having them provide you with a notarized Bill of Sale so that you have a document to prove you are no longer responsible for that vehicle. We also recommend confirming the validity of the process with their legal department and obtaining that response in writing. Dealers can reassign titles without ever owning the vehicle outright but there are of course regulations on the correct way to accept a title that will be reassigned. Best of luck.
Hi @ETAGS. In regards to the “regulations on the correct way to accept a title that will be reassigned” could you further clarify where I can read more? In my situation (admittedly different than @HEATHER M s) I’m looking to acquire a vintage airstream trailer. The seller claims to have purchased it just a couple years back however he has no bill of sale and the title doesn’t seem to have his name. Is there any means of proceeding with the sale in legally sound fashion so as to avoid any sort of liability down the line?
Hey there, pls send back entire question along the state you live in…different states have different rules.
I live in Iowa , and am looking at converting an enclosed utility camper into a small camper. Once completed the weight will remain under 2000lbs (starting weight 800lbs, completed weight estimated to come in around 1400lbs), do I need to notify the DMV of the conversion?
eTags doesn’t operate in Iowa. It’s best to contact your local DMV or tax collector’s office for answers.
My friend is giving me a pull behind camper. She lives in VA. I live in NC. Most DMVs are closed. How do I get temporary tags so I can bring it from VA to NC?
eTags doesn’t operate in VA or NC. But here’s a website that can help with that, it seems like DMVs are open in VA by appointment. https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/commercial/#dealer/pod_intro.asp
I’m selling a camper (I reside in KS). Do I keep the tag? Thanks
eTags doesn’t operate in KS, however this info was found online: Keep your plate. You can transfer it to a new vehicle through the Kansas DOV at the County Treasurer’s Office. Keep your old registration, too, because you’ll need it to do the switch. You can even do this within 60 days after getting a new vehicle, if you haven’t sold the old one yet.
I have a 2016 fifth wheel that is 2 yrs behind in registration how much extra will I be charged if I pay this month. I live in SC.
hey there, it’s best to contact your local DMV since etags doesn’t operate in SC.
I live in Maryland. I own a travel trailer, however I can’t even tow it due to not owning a truck that can tow it due to my divorce. Does the trailer need tags if it never leaves my lot on my property?
if the trailer is never going to leave the property then it doesn’t need tags. Only if you plan to move the trailer ten it would need tags.
I am taking over payments.on a camper from a friend in Ga. I live in Alabama. Right now we are just making the payments for her for about 6 mnths. Then going to have it financed in our name. How can I go about getting a tag and registering it I. ALA. in my name? We have done up a paper that states I will make the payments and if payments arent made then she can come get it and things like that.
Please refer to the Alabama DMV as eTags doesn’t operate in that state.
I bought a Park Model set up in an RV lot in North Carolina. I am a resident of Colorado. I stopped in to the DMV (NC) before heading back to CO at the onset of the ‘FLU’ to transfer the notarized title. I was turned away when they saw I only had a CO drivers license. I was told I must have a NC DL. I have since found out I need an MVR 614 to complete the title transfer. Before heading back to NC to take care of this, can you tell me what, if anything, I will still need to take care of the transfer?
eTags doesn’t operate in the states you mention. It’s best to contact the DMV where you’ll have your RV parked to figure out their regulations.
If a covered trailer is registered under 2500 lbs and it then is converted to a camper/trailer weighing 3800 lbs. when the SOS issues a new vin # what happens to the old registration for the trailer
Not sure where you reside…this might help if you’re in Michigan https://www.michigan.gov/sos/0,4670,7-127-96435_1587-285702–,00.html
I live in Az. want to buy an RV in Tx. for my home, it will stay in Tx. and I will too, moving and want to have my home in place before I leave Az. I want to have the title and registration in Tx. but I have no add. in Tx. or license, how do I get title and transfer. Does anyone have any ideas for me?
eTags doesn’t operate in TX or AZ, and every state has its own regulations so it’s important that you check with the TX DMV since that’s where the RV will be parked. Typically registration is reserved for the actual driving on public road, and titles are for ownership. So you may be able to get the title in your name, and only register once you’re there with proof of insurance and address. But again, pls check with TX DMV bc we don’t know the rules of those states.
I live in Massachusetts. I am going to buy a small used T@B trailer that is located in Maine, but current owners live and have it registered in Massachusetts. What do I need to do to drive it back to Massachusetts?
eTags doesn’t provide registrations and titles for Massachusetts or Maine, you’d have to contact the DMV in those states to see what their laws are for temp tags.
I just purchased a Class C RV from a person not dealer, this RV is currently in TN. I need to drive it to CO where it will reside. I won’t have the title until I get to TN. I took out a loan for the RV and taxes and tags for CO was part of the process for the loan.
How do I get a temp tag for my RV so I can drive it from TN to CO where the RV will reside.
eTags doesn’t provide registrations and titles in the states you listed. You’d have to contact the DMV in TN and CO to find out about their specific regulations about temp tags.
I live in Nevada but my parents live in Illinois and are looking to buy a travel trailer in Nevada. Can they register it in Illinois if it will stay in Nevada? Does the trailer have to be in Illinois in order to register it for the first time?
Hey there, eTags doesn’t operate in those states so it’s best to contact your local DMV for their specific rules. But typically, a registration is needed in the state the vehicle is driven. Titles are for ownership, but registrations are for allowing you to drive on public roads.
I’m looking into a purchasing a pop-up camper from a private seller in Delaware (but will need to register it in my home state of Maryland). What needs to occur during/after the purchase in order for me to successfully transfer title and register the trailer in MD? Thank you!!!
you would need to have a bill of sale and the title signed over from the seller.
I have been given a travel traller no paperwork with it im currently trying to fix it up to live in in a trailer park i want to register it in Florida but I have no paperwork on the trailer what do i do the get it titled abd registered in my name
Normally, a title is or a previous registration signed by the previous owner to the new owner is required. If those are not available, then a Bill of sale might be sufficient if the person goes to the DMV in-person.
I have a travel trailer I got in Oregon, I just recently moved to Idaho and my registration is due. What do I need to register it in Idaho?
eTags doesn’t operate in Idaho, it’s best to visit the Idaho DMV online for their vehicle registration procedures, or call the DMV in your county in Idaho. Here’s a list of contacts. https://itd.idaho.gov/dmvstatus/
I live in Canada and snowbird in Florida for 5 months . bought a 5th wheel in Illinois to leave in Florida park. what do i need for documents to get a Florida License plate. Do i Have to be a Florida resident. what are the taxes and what percentage.
You’ll need the title that was signed over to you and a copy of your ID. You do not have to be a Florida resident but you do have a to have a physical (not PO Box) Florida address to list on your application. You can provide a different mailing address to save on you record. The taxes will be between 6 to 7% of the purchase price. Other fees will be determined by the size/weight of the 5th wheeler. You can apply for and get your new Florida license plate without needing to go in person to an FL tag office by placing an order online on etags.com/app/fl/title/transfer
I am buying a new 5th wheel camper in Ontario, Canada – I live in Pennsylvania and want to register it in Pennsylvania – What do I need to do? What documents and/or paperwork do I need?
All you need is the Original Title and Bill of Sale
Hi. Purchasing a fifth wheel in Connecticut and driving back home to California. What do I need on hand other than title, bill of sale?
You would need to make an appointment with the California DMV to schedule the out of state transfer, Unfortunately we don’t offer this service.
Is a active DL required in Florida to title and tag a 5th wheel RV travel trailer if the person doing the transfer will not be operating it themselves? I wish to purchase this RV but it will be parked at a campground long term and be delivered to said campground by a licensed driver. I just need to tag it for the campground but will not be putting it on the road myself at this time. What about just title transfer?
In order to transfer or register any vehicles in FL, a valid Florida or out of state driver’s license or passport is required. You have to also be able to provide proof of Florida residency. The person doing the transfer has to provide those documents.
We live in Indiana and are buying an RV lot in South Carolina. We plan to buy a travel trailer in South Carolina to put on our lot. In which state would the travel trailer be registered?
If you’re purchasing it in and storing it in South Carolina, it has to be registered in SC.
Hello, I bought a vintage camper that is not really road worthy. I dont plan to use it anywhere other than my back yard. In PA how can I just transfer title to my name ? I have the bill of sale and title signed by the seller
If you’re NOT moving the camper, you don’t need to register it. Just keep it parked in your yard.
I have a transporting service in Oklahoma and I am accepting a job through uship for a boat and trailer. Since Oklahoma doesnt require the trailer to be registered, does the trailer need registered if I am just passing thru the states of Texas, NM, Arizona? The shipper has purchased the boat and trailer on line and I will be taking it to California. Any help with this question is appreciated
The DMV can confirm if the trailer is a no title state. You will need a bill of sale with the VIN to register in CA. I am not familiar with other states laws on towing a non registered trailer.
So I’m buying a fifth wheel camper in Michigan but will be bringing it back to Ohio to setup in a lot at a nearby campground. What do I need to do and will it have to be inspected?
Etags doesn’t handle vehicle services in Michigan or Ohio, but this website may be able to help
https://www.bmv.ohio.gov/vr-firstissuance.aspx
I am buying a vintage trailer located in CA with AZ plates. No title avil bill of sale only. How do I get title and registration put in my name?
If AZ is a no title state, you will need the last reg card and a bill of sale. IT will require a Reg 343 completed and a vin verification at DMV.
I have a camper trailer in a campground in Vermont. I’m trying to sell it. Most people want to take it out of the campground to another state. It has no title or bill of sale. Could they haul it to a New England state or New York without a plate?
All vehicles/motorcycles/trailers must be legally registered to be driven on the road. No exceptions.
I live in NY, I bought a trailer and do not plan to move it from my property, I wanted use like a storage. Do I need to pay the registration if it is not going to be on a public road ?
If you don’t plan on driving the trailer, it doesn’t have to be registered. But if you’re parking it somewhere else, you’ll need to tow it there..it can’t be driven on public roads.
I am a resident of Florida, looking at trading in my motor home (with Florida tags) and buying a travel trailer from a retailer in New Jersey. The dealership I am dealing with says they will put a NJ temporary tag on the trailer. Can the Florida motorhome’s tag be transferred to the travel trailer. Can this be done without driving the trailer to Florida since I plan on storing it in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you should be able to transfer the plate without physically bringing the trailer to fl. Best to do so in person and you’ll need a copy of the Registration for the motor home when you go to the DMV.
I am purchasing a travel trailer in Virginia but moving it to West Virginia where it will be on private property permanently. Do I only need to get a drive out temp tag to transport? I will register it for tax purposes in WV or do I need to do more than that? Do I pay tax on the TT in Virginia or WV?
hey there, etags doesn’t operate in Virginia. But if it’s anything like FL, we recommend getting temp tags otherwise you will have to register twice. in VA and WV.And pay taxes when applying for the drive out temp tag.You could check for regulation on Virginia’s DMV website or contact them directly.
Hi I bought a rather large custom trailer (originally for displaying billboards) that I have spent the past year fixing up for displaying art projects instead. Trying to be forward thinking, and to cover my own ass- I just created an LLC incase something were to happen on the road or with any of the art displayed onboard the trailer. I have a Bill of Sale already to signed listing myself as the new owner/ buyer, but if I want the trailer associated with the LLC should I redo the Bill of Sale with the LLC listed as buyer instead? Or does that not matter and is more an issue when it comes to the Insurance? I’m in California if it makes any difference… any advice is greatly appreciated.
You want the bill of sale to reflect the correct name of whatever business you’re going to put it in.
Hello, if I just got a car that the title is in my name, but I’m moving to another state, can I tow the car with out having to register it untill I get it to the other state?
You would need to go through the DMV to get a one way DMV moving permit.
What do I need to drive a 35foot mobile home. Registration fees in Florida?
Heres a list of registration fees in Fl https://www.flhsmv.gov/fees/
where in san antonio tx can I get the safety check needed to renew the license tab on my 2018 travel trailer? we bought it new. the sweller will not do it, but can not tell us where to go. help!
The Texas Dept of Motor Vehicles can probably help. Here’s the website: https://www.txdmv.gov/motorists/buying-or-selling-a-vehicle/trailers
I bought an rv and only have a bill of sale in az. Its not notarized. How do i get a title?
You didn’t mention where you want to get the rv titled…im guessing in AZ. If so, eTags doesnt operate in that state, so you’d have to reach the DMV and ask for details.
I own a house in Florida but I also live in New York and have a New York license, I would like to purchase an RV in Florida and have it registered there do I need a Florida license
Nope any current state-issued ID will suffice.To register, you can go to http://www.etags.com/app/fl?utm_source=blog_question for registration
ok I have a real messed up situation.
My Sister in law Owed the rv She got sick (which now has passed away) & signed it over to me in the year 2015. I lost the title. when moving here recently I found it. it has been signed & notarized clear back in 2015 Can I still get it over in my name?
yes you can get the title in your name. If you live in one of the states etags operates in, CA,FL,MD, you can go to our website and select Transfer Title/Registration
I have a stationary trailer in Georgia. I live in Texas. I can’t register it in Georgia without changing my state of residence, and Texas claims it needs to be hauled off and weighed. It can’t be moved. Now what?
trailer must be weighed to determine if it will only acquire tag or tag and title
I live in tn,do I buy law have to buy a tag when I transfer the title
eTags doesn’t operate in TN. But online research shows: Yes you can drive without plates, but only if you drive the vehicle directly to the first place of storage (usually your home) within three days of the sale. You must have the properly assigned title and proof of insurance with you. Do not use the seller’s license plate on the vehicle while driving it home.
Registering the car makes it legal to drive on roads. Titles are for transferring ownership of vehicle.
I have a travel trailer at a park in California. I do not plan to move it from this park this year. Do I need to pay the full $398 registration if it is not going to be on a public road this year?
The DMV does not allow Non OP for CCH or coach trailers because they can inhabited even while not in use. If your trailer is a Perm Trailer than you can apply for a PNO.
Hello, I just bought an RV (untitled) in Rhode Island. I need to drive it to Massachusetts where it will be temporarily parked for a couple of months on private land and then to Vermont where it will live permanently on private land. What is required to move this thing?
eTags dones’t operate in Rhode Island, but we’re assuming that you’ll need to get drive out temp tag from RI, Try to call the DMV there to get more answers.
This info is on their website. http://www.dmv.ri.gov/faq/
Q. I just purchased a vehicle. Do you issue temporary plates?
A. Five-day temporary plates are issued to Rhode Island residents who have purchased a 2001 vehicle or newer from a private party or an out-of-state dealer, provided the vehicle has an out-of-state title and requires a VIN inspection. You must present a bill of sale, the out-of-state title, your current Rhode Island license or current out-of-state license with proof of residency and insurance information.
I have a Class A motorhome registered in NC. I’ve had it parked at my house for two years while slowly renovating it in my spare time. It won’t be done for another year, but my registration is up for renewal and I have to take the RV in for an inspection. Currently, it’s not driveable. Is there a way to end my registration and start it up again once I’m ready to drive the RV?
eTags doesn’t operate in NC, but perhaps you can visit a DMV and surrender the license plate or registration there
Hi,
I just bought a 27ft Airstream trailer in NY, looking to have a friend drive it down to FL where it will be stored on my private property. I’m so confused between registration vs tag vs title vs moving permit, can you please advise process/what’s required?
TIA!
We’re not sure what kind of paperwork you have at this time..but if we understood the question correctly: you would need both registration and title under your name if your trailer is under 2,000 pounds. If it’s over that weight, you’ll only need registration. check out etags.com for our services or call Customer Support at 1-888-633-5332 for more assistance.
I bought a 1985 fleetwood Southwind , needs some repairs , i have the title , what can i do to switch the title in my name? i already bought insurance , what else do i need to do to get a new licence plate under my name?
You’ll need to transfer the title into your own name and register the car so you can drive it on the road.
I bought an RV March of 2018 in Arizona. It had a 90 day permit. We were traveling through California and I became ill and was diagnosed with cancer so we had to store the RV for two years. Now we want to take it to NM where we’ll live. I have the title in hand but can we drive it from CA to NM with only the title since it will be registered in NM and not CA?
Please contact the DMV in regards to a moving permit.
I recently bought a travel trailer and parked it in on private property in NC where we will be moving and using it as a permanent residence. I am currently a TN resident and will be for a few more months. Do I need to register/get tags and/or plates? And if so, in which state? It is not being driven and is parked permanently.
You’d have to register and get tags in NC.
Does anyone know if I need to have plates on a trailer that I am planning to pull through a state that requires trailer plates, even though the state I live in does not require them?
Yes, you will need to get the plates for the trailer if you are planning to drive it through states that require it.
I bought 93 motor home with title. I am from Indiana.On title says one name of the seller from 2018. i bought rv from guy in Indiana few days ago. Rv is not registered.,no plates. Do I need bill of sale?
eTags doesn’t operate in Indiana. It’s best to check with the Indiana BMV.
I’m about to purchase a class A Motorhome ,I don’t have a driver’s license but have no intention on driving it.The reason I’m doing this is still undecided,you see I’m either going to keep it and live in it or I’m possibly going to flip it and triple my investment,but in the meantime it will be stored at an RV storage facility.Do I have to register & title it if it’s stored??
Since the motorhome will be stored and not driven, you can just transfer the title in your name. No registration required. If you live in FL, CA or Maryland, you can go to etags.com and choose Service Type: Transfer Title/Registration.
I am switching to a smaller trace trailer in the state of Oregon. Can I use the veterans license plate on my 5th wheel for the new trailer?
eTags doesn’t operate in the state of Oregon, it’s best to contact Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services… https://www.oregon.gov/odot/dmv/Pages/index.aspx
My boyfriend just purchased a 29 foot coach RV I’m not sure what you was at the pallet it doesn’t strive and it’s going to be parked on our private property the question is it looks like the place don’t have any stickers on them there’s just one thing that says prior owner purchased it in 2015 my question is and this is for California does this type of vehicle have a yearly registration fee and if it’s been five years since fees have been paid how steep is this penalty going to be?
If this trailer is labeled as a coach trailer annual registration fees are due, as opposed to a Permanent trailer that is only renewed once every 5 years. If 5 years have passed the vehicle may have fallen off record and you will need to register the vehicle as if it has never been registered before. If it is still on record you are subject to up to a range of penalties that can not exceed 300% of the registration annually.
I’m from Canada and I’m buying a used travel trailer. Privately owned from a resident in Florida. It has a title but not sure how to go about the process. I want to keep it in Florida year round and not bring it back to Canada.
If the travel trailer is not already titled in Florida, then you must go in person to a Florida DMV Regional Office for an inspection. If you can confirm that the trailer is already titled in Florida, then you can use eTags.com to transfer and register the trailer in your name.Just select Transfer Title/Registration on
https://www.etags.com/app/fl?utm_source=blog&utm_term=%7Bkeyword%7D
I just bought a motorhome in Texas, I want to leave on Sunday to drive it to iowa. Can I get a temp plate for it?
We don’t operate in Texas, so it’s best to call your local DMV in Texas. They may be able to issue temp tags.
We just recently bought an RV from a friend, but when try to register this vehicle at the DMV, told us that we were not able to do so because there was no records of this RV been in the states the vehicle has a title from Canada. any help be nice thank you.
You can try to contact a Regional DMV Office and state your issue.
https://www.flhsmv.gov/pdf/buyingvehicle/bur_field_ops_address.pdf
Were going to purchase a 31 ft 99′ rv. What do we need if were driving it across the USA
You will need the title, insurance and Drivers license
Hello. We have a travel trailer that we have been trying to sell. The registration is about to expire, but we aren’t planning on moving it off of our property until someone buys it and takes it away. Do we need to renew the registration on this trailer in order to sell, or can we let it expire and leave that up to the buyer? We live in Florida.
No you don’t need to register the vehicle if you’re not planning on driving it. Just contact your local tax collector and inform them that the vehicle will not be driven.
I have a travel trailer in Texas. The owner is my son who lives in Louisiana. I live in Florida currently. We are renting a storage space for the camper in Texas where it will be stored for a short time. Who should obtain the temporary tags in order to move the camper and in what state?
Temporary tags would be in Texas since that’s where you’re moving it.
I have a travel trailer permanently parked on my farm in California. It cannot and will not ever be moved. How can I get out of the $250.00 registration every year since you cannot non-op a trailer in California? I could obtain a LLC in a state that has no sales tax and sell it to the LLC but it’s still $99.00 to form an LLC and $49/year for registered agent who forwards my mail…..Any better way?
Reach out to your local DMV for specific details since your situation has a few variables. You can call 1 800 777 0133
I’m trying to sell my fifth wheel camper but everyone keeps asking me if I have a title for it or they won’t byeit unless I can get a title for it I bought it from my boss and he bought it from another individual and my boss never got a title from the guy he bought it from can someone please just let me know so I will know what to tell my buying peoples about the title
Campers under 2k lb. don’t need a title, your registration would act as proof of ownership.
I live in Canada and own a fifth wheel trailer in Florida that stays in a Park,never taken on road.Do I have to renew the plate every year or just if I haul it on road?
If it is not in use(on road), you don’t have to renew every year. But keep in mind that when you do decide to renew, back taxes for all the years you didn’t renew will apply.
I live in Florida but will be spending summers in upstate NY. I want to buy a tow behind RV in NY and leave it in NY permanently either with a friend or on a land parcel I purchase for the winter months. Do I register the RV in Florida? NY? Not sure how that works.
You can park and register it in either state, but in Florida you will be required to prove the address for that “parcel of land.”
We live in Indiana but have property in Michigan that we have utilities and pay taxes on. We are purchasing a travel trailer to leave on the property majority of the time. Can we register the TT in Michigan and if so, what documents are required?
Please contact your local DMV for specific details.
If I buy a trailer with permanent plates on it will I need to register it when I purchase it from someone else. I live in NV and am looking at a used camper
Yes you would have to register your trailer if you will be driving it.
I have a fifth wheel seasonal in Massachusetts. It will not be moved or driven at all. Do I need to renew the registration for the RMV?
We don’t typically deal with Massachusetts and laws are different from state to sate. It’s best to contact your local RMV.
I bought a travel trained I need to get it tagged but I don’t have a driver’s license. Can still get it tagged and if so how much will it cost
Identification of the owner: For individuals, the driver’s license number is used and associated with the vehicle registration. If a specialty license is required for operation of the vehicle being registered like a boating license or specialty class license for larger vehicles (like RVs), this must be attained before attempting to register the vehicle.
My boyfriend and I are in the process of buying an RV. He resides in Salt Lake City area and I reside in Sourhern California. We are sharing ownership and want to register it in Utah. I would like to keep the RV in California during the winter months. Do I have to register it in california also or will I not be able to use it in California at all??
As long as the vehicle has current registration from another state you are not required to transfer title to CA. You may have to prove residency in UT if you were to be pulled over, but that is at the discretion of the officer.
I am a MI resident and just purchased a 5th wheel in FL. It will be permanently parked on our RV Park site and not driven. Can I get FL plates and insurance without becoming a FL resident?
Typically if you register your vehicle in FL, you’ll need to show proof of residency.
Hi, I plan to purchase a travel trailer to keep at a permanent spot in Maine. (The camper trailer will not be towed, other than one-time to get it to the permanent location.) However, I live in Texas. How/where should I register the trailer? I was thinking I could just register and obtain a plate from Texas, but they require annual inspections on trailers over 7500 GVW (which this trailer is). But if it’s in a permanent non-movable and out of state location, how can I get it inspected, or is there a better option?
I’m at a loss on what to do!
We recommend looking into temporary registrations in Texas that’ll allow you to transport the vehicle without the requirements of regular registration.
I live in California but plan to buy. Trailer in Texas and only use it in Texas in a retirement park. Do I need to register it in California?
No you don’t have to register in California
Have a question. We are traveling to Tennessee from California and we just purchased a trailer, we have the bill of sale (not notarized) and the title. Would we need a temporary plate to travel through without getting pulled over?
Yes you would need a temporary plate from Tennessee.
Do I need to have my RV bumper pull registered if I don’t plan on moving it? I live in it.
What state is the RV in?
Sorry this isnt Lisa however I’m curious too. We just brought a non moving rv in Delaware however we are Maryland residents. Owner has the title so do we need to registered the rv if it’s never going to be on the road again?
You wouldn’t have to register it if you’re not going to drive it, but you would want to have the title so that you have ownership of the RV.
i live in Michigan. My motorhome was in repair shop all year. It ws not used and I didn’t renew the registration. I want to renew it this year but they want to charge me double. Is this right?
eTags doesn’t operate in Michigan, please contact your local DMV for specific details.
I sold a RV to a man out of state which we had notarized at our DMV . Now year later they send a notice of renewal $103 . I called them and they said I got to pay unless I have all information on the RV and guy that bought it. I don’t. They have no record either of transactions I did there either.
What happens if I don’t pay taxes on something I don’t own? They won’t let me junk it also.
We’re not sure where you are located and rules can be different depending on state. For example if this was in fl then you can surrender the license plate by going to a tag agency.
I recently sold a trailer that I bought in Colorado and had registered there because I was in the military stationed there. I was relocated to Louisiana and kept the trailer in not garages and never wanted it registered in Louisiana and let my registration lapse in Colorado. I just sold it to a friend there with a legal bill of sale. He tried to register it and they told him that they needed copy of my drivers license front/back. My question is, why does Louisiana require my license for him to register it in his name if they have an approved bill of sale which is notarized?
Russ
Hi Russell, we are not finding reason as to why a copy of your driver’s license is required since the bill of sale is notarized. Perhaps it is an over abundance of caution to make sure the transaction isn’t fraudulent. We recommend using Louisianan’s contact from here https://dpsweb.dps.louisiana.gov/OMVContactUs.nsf to inquire on the reason for this. Hope you can get that resolved. All the best and thanks for your service!
SALINAS I HAD TWO BIG FOOT TRAVEL CAMPER ONE WAS SMASHED AND INS BOUGHT ME NEW ONE. KY CO CLERK TOLD ME JUST USE OLD PLT IT WAS OK. SO 2ND BIG FOOT NEVER TITLED. I SINCE LOST THE CERT OF ORIGIN FROM THE MANUFACTURER. CAN I SELL IT WITH A NOTARIZED BILL OF SALE.? UR HELP IS INVALUABLE .
Yes you can, but that depends on if the buyer accepts just a notarized bill of sale.
Can a person who lives in Florida and has no intention of moving to California buy a travel trailer in CA and register it in CA?
Hello David. You can only register your vehicle in the state where you reside.
Do I need to register my travel trailer if it is going to be stationary
Hello Tanya. You’ll need to contact your DMV agency to request a non-operative vehicle status. That only applies if you are not planning to operate the vehicle at all.
We are Snowbirds who have a permanent residence in FL and pay taxes there. We are former Hoosiers and still own rental property in Indiana; have come back and lived in Indiana for more than a dozen summers. We are buying a motorhome to travel the western states for the next few years, and will store it during the winter at our rental property. Where should we plate the motorhome?
Hello Cecilia. You could register your vehicle in either location as long as you can provide a proof of address. Good luck!
My vintage1956 travel trailer was last registered in 1990 will there be extra fees to register it now? In California?
Hello Annie. The extra fees depends on the amount of time you kept your vehicle with expired tags and the type of vehicle you are driving. Contact your local DMV agency for more specific details and further instructions.
I have a 1980 travel trailer that I want to dispose (dismantle and for junk). How do I report this to DMV so it will be taken out of my name?
Hello Ruth. You could arrange an in person visit to the DMV to get further advice on what you need to submit prior to junk your vehicle. Every state works differently when it comes to getting rid of a vehicle. For the most part, you may be required to present the title and the license plates during this process.
I have a tent trailer, can etags renew that registration?
Hello Michael. You could renew your pop-up trailer but that depends on where you reside. We offer our services to certain states including Florida, California, Maryland, and Pennsylvania.
This is Deb from MN. We have been at a campground for 8 years and never move our camper, do we have to get stickers every year when we never move it
We are not familiar with MN laws, since we don’t operate in that state. But typically, as long as your vehicle is not on the road (you’re not driving it), you don’t have to register it. You may want to look into getting a non-operational status. It’s best for you to contact your local DMV in MN.
I need to resgesiter my toy hauler in ga.
Hey there, we don’t operate in Georgia
I haven’t registered my motorhome for the road in seven years. Is there any amnesty on registration considering you can’t non OP a motorhome in California
Hello Michael. If you can prove your vehicle was non OP, they may be able to assist you on this process. Remember that vehicle registrations are mandatory.
I want to make sure that I get my registration handled properly. It makes sense that I would need to have the right identification! I’ll be sure to pay my registration fees.
I thought it was really interesting to learn that you may need to register and license your boat based on where you live. How do you check and see whether or not you need to have your boat registered in your state? I’m curious to know since my wife and I have been wanting to get a boat for a while now, but we want to make sure we know all the responsibilities of boat ownership prior to making a decision.
Hey John. You can check boat and vessel registration requirements by state here: http://www.dmv.org/boat-registration.php
Looking at popup campers and others types of rvs in PA and surrounding states. I want to park it on private land. Or maybe in a campground. What is required if anything? Inspections? Titled? Registration? Tags? Insurance? What if seller does not have current insurance, inspection, or title in their name? Know is a lot….
You’ll need inspection and insurance to tile and register in PA, but fully answering this question requires more details on the variables. If the seller doesn’t have the camper in their name, they can’t sell it to you. Only the current owner can sell it to you.
I did not realize that the process of getting plates for a motor home was different than that of a car because motor homes travel across many different states. I was also unaware that there were fees that some states charged to motor home users that pass through. If I would have known this information sooner, I would have informed my parents who just recently bought a motor home. I believe that it is important to make sure that you know all the information on the things like cars before you buy them.
Hi Dave, you make a great point. Laws and requirements regarding motor vehicles can differ greatly enough from state to state. It is important to be informed. Best of luck to your parents as they travel.
I didn’t realize that trailers needed to be registered too. Will it have a separate license plate from the vehicle pulling it? We just bought a boat and I want to make sure that awe have all the right paper work done so we don’t get in trouble when we take it out to play. Thanks for this information!
Hi April, Whether a trailer needs to be registered depends on the state you live in. If separate registration is required in your state, a separate license plate is usually issued. For more information about your state’s requirements, please contact your local DMV, RMV, MVD office.