How to Register a Car in Michigan After a Private Sale
You have 15 days from date of purchase to register your newly purchased vehicle in Michigan. Here is every document you need, what it will cost, and exactly where to go.
Deadline
15 days
Title Fee
$15
Sales Tax
6%
Smog Required
No
Required Documents in Michigan
- Signed Michigan Certificate of Title
- Proof of Michigan no-fault insurance
- Odometer disclosure (for vehicles under 10 years old)
- Payment for title fee, registration, and 6% sales tax
Michigan Registration Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Title transfer fee | $15 |
| Annual registration fee | Based on MSRP and age — new vehicles $100–$400; older vehicles $30–$100 |
| Sales / use tax | 6% |
| Smog inspection | Not required |
Michigan has one of the shortest title transfer deadlines at 15 days. Late transfers incur a $15 penalty. Michigan now uses an electronic title system — physical titles are not issued unless specifically requested.
Step-by-Step: How to Register a Car in Michigan
- 1
Get a signed title from the seller
The seller must sign the back of the Michigan 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 Michigan to calculate the 6% sales/use tax at the DMV. Keep a copy for your records.
- 3
Confirm inspection requirements
Michigan Michigan does not require emissions testing for vehicle registration. Annual safety inspections are not required for private passenger vehicles.
- 4
Obtain proof of insurance
You must show proof of Michigan 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 Michigan Secretary of State
Bring all required documents to Michigan Secretary of State. Michigan SOS offers online and kiosk-based registration renewal. Title transfers require visiting a Secretary of State office. Express SOS branches offer same-day appointments. Pay the title fee ($15), registration fee (Based on MSRP and age — new vehicles $100–$400; older vehicles $30–$100), and applicable sales tax (6%).
- 6
Receive your plates and registration card
Michigan 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. Michigan has one of the shortest title transfer deadlines at 15 days. Late transfers incur a $15 penalty. Michigan now uses an electronic title system — physical titles are not issued unless specifically requested.
FAQ — Michigan Car Registration
How long do I have to register a car after buying it in Michigan?
Michigan 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 Michigan?
Michigan registration costs include: title fee $15, registration fee Based on MSRP and age — new vehicles $100–$400; older vehicles $30–$100, and sales/use tax of 6%. 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 Michigan?
Generally no. Michigan does not require emissions testing for vehicle registration. Annual safety inspections are not required for private passenger vehicles.
Can I register a car online in Michigan?
Yes, partially. Michigan SOS offers online and kiosk-based registration renewal. Title transfers require visiting a Secretary of State office. Express SOS branches offer same-day appointments.
What documents do I need to register a used car in Michigan?
Required: Signed Michigan Certificate of Title; Proof of Michigan no-fault insurance; Odometer disclosure (for vehicles under 10 years old); Payment for title fee, registration, and 6% sales tax.
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 Michigan Secretary of State before the transfer can be completed. Never purchase a vehicle without receiving the signed title at the time of sale.
Need a Michigan Bill of Sale?
A proper bill of sale is required to establish the taxable sale price at the Michigan DMV.
Create Michigan Bill of Sale