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Vehicle Registration

Vehicle Registration

Contents

  1. Registration Renewal
  2. Other ways to renew
  3. Early Renewal
  4. Late Fees
  5. Emissions Testing
  6. Alternative Fuel Vehicles
  7. Insurance Requirements
  8. Temporary Vehicle Permits
  9. Vehicle License Tax Exemptions
  10. Registration Credit or Refunds When You Sell Your Vehicle
  11. Additional Vehicle Registration Topics 

Renewing your vehicle registration can almost always be completed online in just minutes. It’s easy, quick and secure.

Renew your Registration Online at AZ MVD Now

Most vehicles can be registered for one, two, or five years, depending on emissions requirements.

Did you just move to Arizona and need to register your vehicle for the first time? You’ll need to visit us. Here's what you need to bring.

Registration Renewal

Renew on AZ MVD Now

Some registrations are due on the last day of the month, others are due on the 15th of the month. Check your renewal notice or current registration to see which applies to your vehicle.

You do not need a renewal notice to renew your registration. 

Registration Documents are Mailed

All registration documents and license plate tabs are mailed to you and are not available at MVD offices. Make sure your address is correct before renewing. 

When you renew, your record is updated instantly and your receipt is your proof of registration. You can also find your registration document in the My Documents section of your AZ MVD Now account.

Other ways to renew

  • Mail (Check or money order payable to Motor Vehicle Division. Write license plate number on the check.)

Mail to: Arizona Department of Transportation
Motor Vehicle Division
PO Box 29008
Phoenix, AZ 85038

A $25 fee is charged for a returned check and may result in cancellation of vehicle registrations and driving privileges.

Early Renewal

Early registration renewal is based on an emissions test requirement.

  • If an emissions test is required, you may renew up to 90 days before expiration.
  • If an emissions test is not required, you may renew up to six months before expiration.

Late Fees

To avoid a penalty fee, your online or phone renewal must be completed on or before the due date or your mail-in payment must be postmarked by the due date. The initial fee for a late registration is $8, plus an additional $4 for each month it's overdue, not to exceed $100.

MVD attempts to notify you by mail or email 45 days before the registration is due. You are responsible for on-time renewal whether or not you receive a reminder. Your registration document has the expiration date and the information is in your AZ MVD Now account. 

Emissions Testing

Before you register, your vehicle may need an emissions test. For convenience, get the required emissions testing at the time of registration so the cycles for each are similar.

Check your AZ MVD Now account to determine if your vehicle requires emissions testing.

Vehicles outside of Arizona may qualify for an out-of-state exemption.

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality is responsible for the emissions testing program. Contact them at 877.692.9227 (877.MYAZCAR) or visit myazcar.com. 

More information on Emissions Testing

Alternative Fuel Vehicles

Information for alternative fuel vehicle owners.

Insurance Requirements

Every vehicle operated on Arizona roads must be covered by Arizona liability insurance through a company authorized to do business in Arizona. This includes golf carts, motorcycles and mopeds.

Read more about insurance information

Out-of-State Vehicles 

To title and register your out-of-state vehicle, you’ll need to visit an office. You must have these items:

  • A completed, signed Title and Registration Application (Form #96-0236)
  • An emissions compliance form (Phoenix and Tucson areas only)
  • An out-of-state title (or registration, if the title is held by a lienholder)
  • A lien clearance, if applicable
  • Power of Attorney from the lessor (original or certified copy), if leased vehicle
  • Payment of all applicable title and registration fees

Temporary Vehicle Permits

There are several types of temporary permits available for covering gaps in the titling and registration process. 

Vehicle License Tax Exemptions

Vehicle license tax exemptions are available in various ownership categories and vehicle classes.

See if you qualify for a Vehicle License Tax Exemption.

Registration Credit or Refunds When You Sell Your Vehicle

When you sell or otherwise transfer your vehicle, complete a sold notice right away. You also may be eligible to receive credit for registration fees (vehicle license tax) previously paid.

Additional Vehicle Registration Topics 

Need Help?

Contact MVD 

 

 

Contents

  1. Registration Renewal
  2. Other ways to renew
  3. Early Renewal
  4. Late Fees
  5. Emissions Testing
  6. Alternative Fuel Vehicles
  7. Insurance Requirements
  8. Temporary Vehicle Permits
  9. Vehicle License Tax Exemptions
  10. Registration Credit or Refunds When You Sell Your Vehicle
  11. Additional Vehicle Registration Topics