How to Register a Vehicle

Pennsylvania BMV requires separate application filings for new and used vehicles. When presenting paperwork for a new vehicle, you will want to establish proof of ownership with a Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin. Used vehicles will call for a transferred Title, complete with an odometer statement. The same scenario applies to the application you want to complete and hand in. For new vehicles, the necessary form will be the Application for Certificate of Title. Used vehicles require a Vehicle Sales and Use Tax Return/Application for Registration. These forms are only available to fill out at a PennDOT location or notary office in person. These forms are unavailable for download online as they incorporate a 3-tier form protocol.

Visit your nearest PennDOT Office with the following arranged materials:

• The appropriate application for title/registration, Application for Certificate of Title (form MV-1) for new vehicles, or a Vehicle Sales and Use Tax Return/Application for Registration (form MV-4ST) for used vehicles (available upon visiting PennDOT Office).
• Proper evidence of vehicle ownership via a manufacturer certificate of origin for new vehicles or properly reassigned title (ensure that the odometer statement is accurately filled out) is required.
• Valid automobile insurance in the state of Pennsylvania.
• Up-to-date Pennsylvania State-issued identification card or driver’s license.
• Certificate for the vehicle passing Safety Inspection and a separate Emissions Inspection.
• An active form of payment for taxes and fees for registration and title.

The following items may be mandated depending on the vehicle or your specific situation:

• If the vehicle was gifted to you, a furnished Pennsylvania Affidavit of Gift (form MV-13ST) will be required.
• A completed and notarized Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Verification of Fair Market Value by the Issuing Agent (form MV-3) if the vehicle purchased was sold for an amount less than 80% fair market value.
• If you intend on using license plates from a previous vehicle on the newly obtained vehicle, make sure to bring them to the office with you on the day of registration.