Titling a Car in Illinois After Moving From Another State
Last verified: October 2026 against Illinois SOS and IDOR sources
If you move to Illinois with a car registered in another state, you have 30 days to apply for an Illinois title and registration.
Here is what to do and what to bring.
Step by step
- 1
Mark the 30-day deadline
Apply within 30 days of establishing residence in Illinois.
- 2
Complete the VSD-190
Fill out the Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (VSD-190) with your Illinois address, the odometer reading, the vehicle description and VIN, and any lienholders.
- 3
Bring your out-of-state title
Submit the out-of-state title. If a lienholder holds it, submit a copy of the title, registration, or bill of sale and a copy of the loan agreement instead.
- 4
Check whether tax applies
A vehicle titled and registered in another state 3 months or more before you moved is exempt. You still submit Form RUT-50 or RUT-25 showing the exempt status.
A recent purchase from an individual is taxed on Form RUT-50.
- 5
Apply and pay the fees
Apply at a Secretary of State facility. The title is $165, passenger plates are $151 a year, and motorcycle plates are $41. You need liability insurance.
What to bring
- Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (VSD-190)
- Out-of-state title (or copies and the loan agreement if a lienholder holds it)
- Form RUT-50 or RUT-25
- Proof of liability insurance
- Payment for the $165 title fee and plates