How to Register a Car in Arizona After a Private Sale
You have 15 days from date of purchase to register your newly purchased vehicle in Arizona. Here is every document you need, what it will cost, and exactly where to go.
Deadline
15 days
Title Fee
$4
Sales Tax
No
Smog Required
Yes
Required Documents in Arizona
- Signed Arizona Certificate of Title
- Odometer disclosure (for vehicles under 10 years old)
- Proof of Arizona liability insurance
- Emissions test certificate (Maricopa/Pima counties)
- Payment for title fee ($4), VLT, and registration
Arizona Registration Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Title transfer fee | $4 |
| Annual registration fee | Vehicle License Tax (VLT) — 60% of MSRP × 2.89% (reduces 16.25% each year) |
| Sales / use tax | No state sales tax on private party vehicle sales; use tax may apply |
| Smog inspection | Required — $30–$80 at test-only station |
Arizona charges no traditional sales tax on private party vehicle sales, but dealers charge TPT (Transaction Privilege Tax). Private party buyers pay the Vehicle License Tax (VLT) at registration instead.
Step-by-Step: How to Register a Car in Arizona
- 1
Get a signed title from the seller
The seller must sign the back of the Arizona Certificate of Title in the appropriate seller section, entering the odometer reading and sale date. Do not accept an unsigned title — it cannot be transferred.
- 2
Obtain a bill of sale
A bill of sale documenting the sale price, date, VIN, and both parties' names is required in Arizona to calculate the No state sales tax on private party vehicle sales; use tax may apply sales/use tax at the DMV. Keep a copy for your records.
- 3
Get a smog/emissions certificate
Arizona requires a smog or emissions certificate before title transfer. Emissions testing required in Maricopa and Pima counties for vehicles 1967 or newer (gasoline) and 1967 or newer (diesel under 10,001 lbs). Required every other year after the first 5 years.
- 4
Obtain proof of insurance
You must show proof of Arizona insurance meeting the state minimum liability requirements. Contact your insurer before completing the purchase — most policies extend to newly acquired vehicles for 30 days.
- 5
Visit Arizona MVD
Bring all required documents to Arizona MVD. Arizona MVD offers AZ MVD Now for online title transfers and registration at azmvdnow.gov. Highly recommended — lines at MVD offices can be long. Pay the title fee ($4), registration fee (Vehicle License Tax (VLT) — 60% of MSRP × 2.89% (reduces 16.25% each year)), and applicable sales tax (No state sales tax on private party vehicle sales; use tax may apply).
- 6
Receive your plates and registration card
Arizona will issue your registration card immediately or by mail. New plates are typically available same day. Your new title arrives by mail within 4–8 weeks. Arizona charges no traditional sales tax on private party vehicle sales, but dealers charge TPT (Transaction Privilege Tax). Private party buyers pay the Vehicle License Tax (VLT) at registration instead.
FAQ — Arizona Car Registration
How long do I have to register a car after buying it in Arizona?
Arizona requires title transfer and registration within 15 days from date of purchase. Operating a vehicle with an untransferred title may result in penalties. The deadline runs from the date of sale on the bill of sale and title.
How much does it cost to register a car in Arizona?
Arizona registration costs include: title fee $4, registration fee Vehicle License Tax (VLT) — 60% of MSRP × 2.89% (reduces 16.25% each year), and sales/use tax of No state sales tax on private party vehicle sales; use tax may apply. Total out-of-pocket for a $10,000 vehicle purchase is typically $800–$1,500 depending on county.
Do I need a smog check to register a car in Arizona?
Yes. Emissions testing required in Maricopa and Pima counties for vehicles 1967 or newer (gasoline) and 1967 or newer (diesel under 10,001 lbs). Required every other year after the first 5 years.
Can I register a car online in Arizona?
Yes, partially. Arizona MVD offers AZ MVD Now for online title transfers and registration at azmvdnow.gov. Highly recommended — lines at MVD offices can be long.
What documents do I need to register a used car in Arizona?
Required: Signed Arizona Certificate of Title; Odometer disclosure (for vehicles under 10 years old); Proof of Arizona liability insurance; Emissions test certificate (Maricopa/Pima counties); Payment for title fee ($4), VLT, and registration.
What if the seller did not give me the title?
You cannot register or legally operate the vehicle without a properly signed title. Contact the seller immediately — they must sign the title over to you. If the seller is unresponsive or the title is lost, the seller must apply for a duplicate title from Arizona MVD before the transfer can be completed. Never purchase a vehicle without receiving the signed title at the time of sale.
Need a Arizona Bill of Sale?
A proper bill of sale is required to establish the taxable sale price at the Arizona DMV.
Create Arizona Bill of Sale