Applying for a Car Registration in Connecticut

Applying for a Connecticut vehicle registration is one of the first steps you must take after purchasing a car. According to state law, you cannot drive a vehicle on public roads without registering it first. However, the DMV registration process you need to complete may vary depending on where you purchase the vehicle.

If you purchase a car from a Connecticut dealership, for instance, the dealer may register the vehicle on your behalf. If you purchase or acquire a vehicle from a private seller, you must register it yourself. To learn more about the steps you must take to register a newly acquired vehicle with the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), review the sections below.

Note: If your vehicle is already registered but you have lost your registration credentials, you may need to request a duplicate car registration instead.

Getting DMV Car Registration in Connecticut

To obtain new car registration credentials for your vehicle, you must visit a local DMV office to submit your application materials in person. When obtaining vehicle registration records at your local DMV branch, you must be able to present proof of identity, a completed application and evidence of automobile ownership, such as a certificate of title.

Additionally, you must present a bill of sale and proof of car insurance. In order to register your newly acquired vehicle in Connecticut, you must purchase an insurance policy that meets the state’s minimum insurance requirements.

Note: Review our free registration guide if you have any questions about the types of documents you must present during your visit.

During your visit, you must also pay car registration sales tax and fees. However, you may qualify for an exemption from paying sales or use tax on the registration of your newly acquired motor vehicle received the automobile as a gift.

Keep in mind that these fees will be different than your yearly car registration renewal fees.

Where do I apply for a Connecticut car registration near me?

You may not need to apply for a CT auto registration if you purchased from a dealership. However, if your dealer does not forward your registration paperwork to the DMV, you will need to do it yourself.

To determine whether you or the dealer will register your newly acquired vehicle with the Connecticut DMV, it is important to verify this information before leaving the dealership.

If you are not sure about your registration status, contact the DMV.

When registering your newly purchased vehicle with the DMV, you must submit a completed registration application, proof of identification, evidence of automobile ownership and proof of automobile insurance. You must also provide payment for any applicable registration fees.

When you pay your CT vehicle registration fees after purchasing an automobile from a dealership, keep in mind that the sales and use tax you must pay will vary depending on the purchase price of the car, truck, SUV or minivan.

Download our guide for instructions on how to apply for a car registration in Connecticut.