TN Registration

There are different circumstances that lead to your need for first-time registration in TENNESSEE:

  • Recent move in-state with out-of-state registered vehicles
  • Recent vehicle purchase in or out of the state
  • Recent gifted or donated vehicle
Once you have moved into the state or purchased the vehicle, you must visit the DMV office with your title and fees in hand in order to register your vehicle within the time frame that is allotted. If you do not have the title, you will have to obtain a replacement in order to register your vehicle.

Auto Insurance in TENNESSEE

Your auto insurance coverage has a great bearing on your ability to register and drive your vehicle in TN. Without at least the state minimum liability policy covering your vehicle, the DMV won’t even register your vehicle. For some inexpensive choices for such policies, visit the following companies’ sites to collect sites and compare together for the best possible auto insurance rate for you:

  • Prudential
  • Nationwide
  • State Farm
  • Esurance
  • Geico
  • Progressive
Make sure that you visit the online insurance center offered through 4DMV.com to ensure that you get a policy that is adequate for the state.

Paperwork for Vehicle Registration

For those who have just gotten a new vehicle fresh from the dealership, chances are the dealer will complete the registration paperwork instead of making you do it. They will even submit to the DMV with the fees required, which are collected from you in the down payment for the vehicle.

If your vehicle is from out-of-state or has been purchased from a private seller, you will have to do it yourself, which means gathering all the documents and paperwork that you need in order to register your vehicle.

  • Vehicle’s Title
  • Proof of Valid Insurance
  • Application for Registration
  • Used Vehicle Registration Transferal Documents
  • Personalized or Standard Plate Application
  • VIN Certification of Inspection for Out-of-State Vehilces
If you are required to complete an emissions inspection, you will be informed by the DMV prior to registration or registration renewal as well. If you would like a lot more information, you can contact the DMV or visit the Smog and Emissions page from 4DMV.com.

Costs for Registration

You will not be able to register your car without the proper fees in hand, so make sure you are aware of the costs that you will pay. There are several things that may go into the cost of the registration for your vehicle including:

  • Title costs
  • Transfer fees
  • Sales tax
  • Tag fees
  • Personalized plate fees
  • Registration
Contact the DMV before your visit so you can be sure that you get the right amount together before you arrive for the process.

Visit the DMV Office for Registration

After the paperwork is completed and the fees are gathered, you can visit the appropriate DMV office location, which may even offer an appointment for a much quicker and easier experience.

Once you arrive and submit the paperwork you have gotten together, you will be then responsible for getting your plates, which is a process that is together with the registration. If you prefer personalized plates, there will be an additional cost, but the process can take the place of getting standard plates.

Affixing Registration Stickers to Your Plate

Don’t worry about sticking those stickers on your plates, as there are instructions provided. These stickers indicate the expiration month and year of your plates, signifying to police officers whether or not your vehicle’s registration is updated. If you don’t stick the stickers, police may think that your registration is expired, therefore stopping you and causing a rift in the day.

Be sure to follow the instructions and affix the stickers as soon as you get them, regardless of how long is left to the month.

Tax Deduction for Vehicle Registration Costs

Check with a tax attorney or the DMV to determine what deduction you are awarded for the costs you pay in registration fees.