How long do I have to register a vehicle in New Jersey?

New Jersey registration is administered by the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) through agency offices.

1. Deadlines

New residents: 60 days from moving to NJ (N.J.S.A. 39:3-4).

Purchased vehicle: 10 working days to title (N.J.S.A. 39:10-11).

Students and military: 120 days exemption with documentation.

2. Required Documents

Vehicle title (with notarized assignment if applicable).

Form OS/SS-7 (Universal Title Application).

Proof of NJ insurance: standard 15/30/5 minimum, or higher with PIP $250,000 ($15,000 basic policy option) (N.J.S.A. 39:6A-3).

Valid NJ driver license.

6-point ID verification (passport, SSN card, birth certificate combinations).

3. Fees

Title fee: $60 standard ($85 with lien).

Registration fee: $35.50 to $84 based on weight and age.

Sales tax: 6.625% (EV sales tax exemption ended July 1, 2024; now phased to 3.3125% through 2025, full rate 2026).

EV annual fee: $250 starting July 1, 2025; increasing $10/year through 2028 (N.J.S.A. 39:3-8.4).

Tire fee: $1.50/tire.

4. Penalties

Late titling: $25 penalty + interest.

Driving uninsured: $300 to $1,000 fine + 1-year license suspension + community service (N.J.S.A. 39:6B-2).

Expired registration: $54 fine.

5. Inspections

Biennial inspection required for all gasoline vehicles 5+ years old.

Emissions only in most counties (safety inspection eliminated for non-commercial 2010).

Diesel and motorcycles exempt from inspection.

6. Online Renewal

Renew at nj.gov/mvc. New registrations must be done in person.

This is legal information, not legal advice.