Titling a Car in Connecticut After Moving From Another State
Last verified: October 2026 against Connecticut DMV and DRS sources
Once you establish residency in Connecticut, you have 90 days to transfer your vehicle registration. It is done by appointment only.
Here is what to do and what to bring.
Step by step
- 1
Mark the 90-day deadline
Transfer your registration within 90 days of establishing residency, by appointment at a DMV hub office or the Enfield branch.
- 2
Get an emissions test or VIN verification
Vehicles older than four model years need an emissions test. Newer vehicles need a VIN verification instead. You get a vehicle inspection report either way.
- 3
Locate your title
Connecticut needs the original out-of-state title. If a lienholder has it and sends a photocopy of the front and back, you can get a courtesy registration, valid up to six months, while the original is mailed to the DMV.
- 4
Check whether sales tax applies
No sales tax is due if the vehicle was registered in your name in another state for at least 30 days before you established residency. Claim it in section 5 of Form H-13B.
- 5
Bring your documents to the appointment
Bring identification, proof of insurance, Form H-13B, and the vehicle inspection report. Registration is $120 for three years plus the Clean Air Act, Passport to the Parks, and administrative fees.
What to bring
- Original out-of-state title (or a lienholder photocopy for a courtesy registration)
- Vehicle inspection report from the emissions test or VIN verification
- Form H-13B, with section 5 completed if you claim the tax exemption
- Proof of insurance
- Identification
- Payment for fees