Titling a Car in Pennsylvania After Moving From Another State

Step by step

1. 1

   Mark the 20-day deadline

   Apply for a Pennsylvania title and registration within 20 days of moving to Pennsylvania.

2. 2

   Get Pennsylvania insurance

   You need proof of Pennsylvania insurance, such as an insurance ID card or declaration page.

3. 3

   Apply through an authorized agent

   Use an authorized agent such as a notary, dealer, or messenger service, or visit the PennDOT Riverfront Office Center in Harrisburg. You complete Form MV-1 (Application for Certificate of Title) and surrender your out-of-state title.

   A tracing of the vehicle identification number (VIN) is attached to the application.

4. 4

   Handle a lien, if you have one

   If your lienholder holds the out-of-state title, contact PennDOT’s Call Center to request a letter asking the lienholder to send the title to PennDOT. A temporary plate can be issued only when the out-of-state title is submitted with Form MV-1.

5. 5

   Check whether you owe sales tax

   You generally do not owe sales tax if you have a valid out-of-state title and owned the vehicle for at least six months before moving. If you owned it for less than six months, you must prove you paid sales tax or pay Pennsylvania’s tax.

6. 6

   Inspect within 10 days

   A newly registered vehicle must pass a Pennsylvania safety inspection within 10 days. Check Drive Clean PA to see whether your county also requires an emissions inspection.