Register a vehicle in Wisconsin

Online or in person

Yes, then mail documents · Not requiredApply and pay online, then mail the printed eApplication/receipt and the original signed title to the DMV to complete the transaction. Some vehicles and plates are not eligible online. You can apply online, by mail, or in person at a DMV service center or a title/registration service agent. In person adds a $5 counter service fee.

Cost

Title $214.50; automobile registration $85 a yearTitle fee is for an original title or title transfer. License plates carry a $6 per plate issuance fee (not charged for firefighter, gold star and emergency medical services plates; some special plates have a $15 issuance fee). Wheel tax, sales tax and surcharges may apply. See the DMV fee pages.

You leave with

Temporary plate online, if eligibleAutomobiles, SUVs, autocycles and light trucks under 8,000 lbs. can print a temporary plate online. You must display Wisconsin plates or a temporary plate within two business days of purchase.

Your plan

1. Gather your documents

   • Certificate of Title, signed by the seller · all that apply
     Not a photocopy. For vehicles less than 20 model years old, the seller writes the odometer reading on the back.
   • Lien release, if a lienholder is listed on the front of the title and the loan is paid off · all that apply
     Original, valid.
   • Wisconsin driver license or ID card · all that apply
     Proof of identity in person. Online you enter your license number, last four digits of your Social Security number and date of birth.
   • Title and License Plate application (MV1) · all that apply
     Required when applying by mail. In person, bringing a pre-filled or completed MV1 is for faster service. Use the online MV1 to pre-fill it and calculate fees.
   • Payment for title and plates or registration · all that apply
     Title fee, sales tax and local sales tax (if applicable), registration fee, wheel tax and electric or hybrid surcharge (if applicable).

2. Pick the one that fits you:

   1. Option 1: Apply online

      Apply for a Wisconsin title and new plates (or transfer existing plates) online with eMV Public. Print the eApplication/receipt and mail it with the original signed title and any lien release to WisDOT-eMV Public, P.O. Box 7907, Madison, WI 53707-7907.

      Title and register on wisconsindot.gov ↗

   2. Option 2: Apply by mail or in person

      By mail, send the MV1 with the title and fees (check or money order payable to Registration Fee Trust) to WI Dept. of Transportation, P.O. Box 7949, Madison, WI 53707-7949. In person, bring the title and your driver license or ID card; there is a $5 counter service fee. Third-party title/registration service agents also process title transfers and issue new plates.

      Title and register on wisconsindot.gov ↗

3. Emission test, if required

   Vehicles customarily kept in Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Sheboygan, Washington or Waukesha county can require an emissions test. The DMV notifies you; a test could be required within 45 days of registering.

   Emission testing on wisconsindot.gov ↗