Register a vehicle in Arizona

Online or in person

Some services · Office, or AZ MVD Now if eligibleThe agency says you can use AZ MVD Now for services like electronic title transfer, if eligible. The page does not say whether a full title and registration application can be done online. The agency says you can complete the title process at an MVD or Third Party Office. If you buy from a dealership, the title is created at the time of purchase.

Cost

$4 title, $8 registrationState law: $4 for each certificate of title; $8 to register a motor vehicle ($9 for a motorcycle). The agency page says the fee is $4.00 for a title replacement and lists required title and registration fees without amounts. Vehicle license tax and use tax are separate.

You leave with

Electronic title, registration card and platesThe agency says your title information is stored electronically and you no longer automatically receive a paper title. Arizona law says the department issues a registration card and assigns license plates.

Your plan

1. Gather your documents

   • Title and Registration Application (Form #96-0236) · all that apply
     Completed and signed. The agency lists it for a title and registration transfer (paper title).
   • Proof of ownership being transferred
     Listed by the agency for a paper title transfer.
     Show accepted documents (bring 1)

     • A signed vehicle title
     • Title Transfer Bill of Sale (Arizona vehicles only), Form #38-1306
   • Lien release, if applicable · all that apply
     If you want to add or remove a name from the title and there is an unpaid vehicle lien, written permission from the lienholder or lender is required.
   • Required title and registration fees · all that apply
     The agency page does not state the amounts for a transfer.
   • Additional documents for special situations · all that apply
     The agency gives power of attorney and trust or other estate representatives as examples.
   • Odometer mileage disclosure statement · all that apply
     Submitted with the title application for a previously registered vehicle.
   • Emissions inspection, where required · all that apply
     The agency says some vehicles in the Phoenix Metro and Tucson areas need emissions testing before registration. Arizona law says a vehicle required to be inspected cannot be registered until it has passed the emissions and tampering inspection or has been issued a certificate of waiver; inspection is required for vehicles registered in area A and area B.

2. Apply for the title within 15 days

   The agency says Arizona law requires you to apply for a title within 15 days of purchase. A licensed motor vehicle dealer has thirty days under Arizona law. If you buy from a dealership, the title is created at the time of purchase.

   Vehicle Title ↗

3. Go to an MVD or Third Party office, or use AZ MVD Now

   Complete the process at an MVD or Third Party Office, or use AZ MVD Now for services like electronic title transfer, if eligible.

   MVD hours and locations ↗

4. Registration is usually done at the same time

   The agency says a titled vehicle is usually registered at the same time. Most vehicles may be registered for one, two, or five years, depending on emissions requirements.

   Emissions requirements ↗

5. Pay the taxes

   The registering officer collects the vehicle license tax before registration and the use tax at the time of application, and does not process the application until the use tax is paid. The minimum vehicle license tax is $10 per year per vehicle.

6. Keep your papers in the vehicle

   The registration card must be carried in the driver's compartment or displayed on a wireless communication device. Evidence of current financial responsibility (insurance) must also be in the vehicle.