How do I register an out-of-state vehicle?

You will need to bring a completed and signed Title and Registration Application, your out-of-state title, and the vehicle's out-of-state license plates to your local Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) or third-party office. If you are leasing the vehicle, you will also need to bring a lien clearance or power of attorney from the lessor.

In the Tucson and Phoenix areas, you will need an emissions compliance form as well. After payment of all title and registration fees and an emissions inspection of the vehicle, you will be good to go.

What are the different types of VIN inspections that the MVD might perform?

The MVD performs three types of vehicle inspections: Level I, II, and III.

Level I is a simple inspection to check the vehicle identification number (VIN) and make sure it matches the paperwork for the vehicle. The inspection can be performed by an MVD or authorized third-party employee or a designated peace officer. There is no fee associated with this inspection, and it can be performed at any MVD or third-party office.

A Level II inspection will check a secondary VIN when further evidence is needed to verify the "identity" of a vehicle. The inspection must be performed by a specially certified MVD agent. It has an associated $20 fee.

Level III is the highest level of inspection. Your car will require a Level III inspection if it is a restored salvage vehicle or a custom-built vehicle. As the inspection must be performed by a specially certified MVD agent, you will need to call ahead to make an appointment. There will be a $50 fee.

Level II and III inspections are conducted at designated MVD offices in Tucson and Phoenix. Outside of these cities, call (800) 251-5866 to find a location.

How do I replace my title, registration, or license plates?

Duplicates or replacements for all of these items are available. For a duplicate title, just fill out a Title and Registration Application and select the appropriate box at the top to indicate that you are seeking a duplicate copy. A $4 fee will be assessed.

Replacement plates can be obtained at any MVD or third-party office, or through the mail. A $5 fee is required in both cases.

If you choose to go to the MVD office, bring your old plate or your vehicle identification number (VIN) along with a photo ID.

By mail, fill out the Plate Notice form and send it in along with a check or money order for the $5 fee. You will also have to include first-class return postage for your plates.

Replacement registration and tabs can be obtained at any MVD office, by mail, or online. The fee for a duplicate registration is $4.37. If you need tabs, too, the total cost will be $5.37.

What should I do if I didn't receive my registration?

Call the customer service center at (800) 251-5866 for assistance.

What are the different ownership rights options for a title?

When more than one name is used for ownership of a vehicle, there are three different options to choose from: "or," "and," and "and/or."

"Or" ownership provides full legal authority to all named owners to transfer ownership of the vehicle, license plates, and fees. The signature of only one party is required to perform any of these actions. All parties must sign in the Legal Status section of the title registration if this option is chosen.

"And" ownership requires the signature of all parties to transfer ownership of the vehicle, license plates, and fees. In case of the death of one of the parties, a probate action will determine who assumes their interests.

"And/Or" ownership provides the same status as "And" ownership, but with survivorship privileges. As long as both parties are still alive, both signatures are needed. Upon the death of either party, the other assumes full authority over the vehicle.

What about nonoperational vehicles?

If you drop the insurance on an nonoperable vehicle, but wish to maintain its registration status, you'll need to fill out a De-Insured Certificate. If you drop both the insurance and registration, you'll need to fill out a Non-Use Certificate at the time of re-registration to avoid penalties and late fees.

Both forms are available at your nearest MVD office.

I’ve heard the IRS honors a tax deduction that has to do with my vehicle registration fees. Is this true?

Yes. The scoop is that the IRS counts a vehicle registration fee that's based on your vehicle's value as a personal property tax, which is deductible. This is true even if your state calls the fee a "registration fee" or a "vehicle use fee." Check out page 146 of the IRS's Publication 17 for more details.

But before you start entering your registration fees on line 7 of the 1040A form, double check to make sure your state calculates the car registration fee based on the car's value. For example, if your state charges you 1% of the car's value each year as a vehicle fee, and you pay $100 based on your car's value ($10,000), then you can deduct $100. If your state charges you for 1% of the car's value, plus a bunch of other miscellaneous fees, then you can still only deduct the $100. The fees might be itemized on your vehicle registration card or registration renewal form.

Other states ignore the car's value and charge only based on the vehicle weight; in those cases, you can't take the deduction.

If you aren't sure about whether the state charges this fee or you can't find the fee, contact your local motor-vehicle office. If you have questions about taking the deduction, call a tax professional or the IRS.

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