Titling a Car in New York After Moving From Another State
Last verified: October 2026 against NYS DMV and NYS Tax Department sources
If you move to New York with a car from another state, you must register it here within 30 days of becoming a resident.
Here is what to do and what to bring.
Step by step
- 1
Mark the 30-day deadline
Register within 30 days of becoming a New York resident. Non-residents can keep driving on their home state’s registration.
- 2
Get New York insurance
You need proof of New York auto liability insurance.
- 3
Gather proof of ownership
Bring your original out-of-state title or other original proof of ownership. Photocopies are not accepted.
- 4
Settle the sales tax question
If you were not a New York resident when you bought the vehicle, claim the non-resident exemption on Form DTF-803.
If you bought it as a New York resident in another state, Form DTF-804 gives credit for the other state’s tax only if that state gives the same credit for New York tax.
- 5
Register and get inspected
Submit the Vehicle Registration/Title Application (MV-82) with your documents and pay the title fee and registration. Registration is a 2-year fee by weight, plus $25 for plates and any county use tax.
You receive a 10-day inspection extension. Get the vehicle inspected before it runs out.
What to bring
- Original out-of-state title or other original proof of ownership
- Vehicle Registration/Title Application (MV-82)
- Proof of New York insurance
- Proof of identity and age
- Sales tax form DTF-803 or DTF-804, if it applies
- Payment for the title fee, registration, and plates