Titling and registering - ownership a vehicle from an individual

IndividualDealership Family Member

One time you have plant the vehicle y'all want to buy, yous will demand to properly title, register, and plate information technology. Information technology is best if you and the seller go together to a Secretary of State office to complete the championship transfer. If not, and then before leaving with the vehicle brand sure:

  • The seller gives yous the title. Making changes on a championship, such as crossing out a name, invalidates it. Copies are too not acceptable. The seller must complete the seller's portion of the title assignment, including the odometer disclosure statement, and sign information technology.
  • There is no outstanding loan against the vehicle. A championship cannot be transferred until the vehicle loan is fully paid. A representative from the bank or financial institution that administered the loan must either have signed the title or provided the possessor with a lien termination statement.
  • The odometer reading entered past the seller and vehicle identification number (VIN) on the title match the vehicle's odometer reading and VIN.

You lot do non need a license plate to drive a newly purchased vehicle directly habitation within Michigan within three days of purchase. Carry the assigned title and proof of insurance with you lot. Never employ a plate from another vehicle every bit a substitute.

If you lot do non complete the championship transfer with the seller at a Secretary of Land office, you have 15 days from the date of sale to transfer the championship into your name to avert a $15 late fee. 6% use tax (on the greater of the off-white market value or the amount paid) and the $15 title transfer fee will exist due.  To transfer the vehicle title into your name at a Secretary of Country function:

  • Bring the assigned vehicle title.
  • If more ane person is listed on the championship as the new owners, all must appear to sign the championship application. If an possessor cannot appear, they may appoint an agent to sign the awarding on their behalf past completing an Date of Amanuensis form.
    • NOTE: An possessor completing an Appointment of Agent course must provide a photocopy of their valid drivers license or state ID card to the person they appoint as their agent. This photocopy will be required at the Secretary of State office.
  • All owners must bring identification.
  • Yous may transfer a license plate from a vehicle you already own to your new ane. If you need to buy a plate, several attractive options are offered. Inability and personalized plates are also available.
  • Proof of Michigan no-error insurance. Y'all must take Michigan no-fault insurance to register a vehicle in Michigan. Out-of-state policies are not accustomed. (Motorcycles must also exist insured, just practice non require no-error insurance.)

The Secretary of State's function will issue you registration, license plate and tab. Place your tab on your plate equally shown on the grade that comes with it. Put your plate immediately on your vehicle.