Titling a Car in New Jersey After Moving From Another State
Last verified: October 2026 against NJ MVC and Division of Taxation sources
New residents must transfer their vehicle title and registration within 60 days of moving to New Jersey (120 days during a Public Health Emergency).
A vehicle you bought, titled, and registered in another state while you lived there is exempt from New Jersey sales tax.
Step by step
- 1
Get New Jersey insurance
Arrange New Jersey insurance before you visit, and bring the card or policy details.
- 2
Fill out the forms
Complete the Universal Title Application (OS/SS-UTA) and the Vehicle Registration Application (BA-49). A financed or leased vehicle also needs Form OS/SS-54.
- 3
Visit a motor vehicle agency
Bring your ID (usually your driver’s license), the original title, and your insurance information. Schedule an appointment first.
- 4
Pay the title and registration fees
The title is $60, or $85 with one lien. Registration is $46.50 under 3,500 lbs and $71.50 over, or $59 and $84 for model years within 2 years. Zero emission vehicles add the statutory annual fee, which works out to $270 for July 2026 to June 2027.
- 5
Follow the temporary inspection card
You receive a temporary inspection card with your plates and registration. The MVC’s inspection pages explain the next step.
What to bring
- Driver’s license or other ID
- Original out-of-state title
- New Jersey insurance information
- Universal Title Application (OS/SS-UTA)
- Vehicle Registration Application (BA-49)
- Form OS/SS-54, if the vehicle is financed or leased