Applying for Car Registration in Oregon

You must apply for an Oregon vehicle registration whenever you purchase, inherit or acquire a new or used vehicle in the state. However, the specific DMV registration process varies slightly depending on how and where you acquire the motor vehicle.

If you purchase a vehicle from an Oregon dealership, for instance, the dealer may charge an additional fee to forward your registration paperwork directly to the Division of Driver and Motor Vehicle Services (also known as the DMV).

You can avoid paying this added fee by submitting the registration paperwork on your own.

To obtain DMV car registration credentials after a vehicle from a private seller or receiving one as a gift, you must submit your registration application yourself.

Download our free registration guide to learn more about these requirements and information about registering a newly acquired vehicle with the Oregon DMV.

Getting Vehicle Registration Records in Oregon

To obtain new car registration credentials for your recently acquired motor vehicle, you may submit your application paperwork by mail or in person at a local DMV office.

If you purchase a vehicle from an Oregon dealership, however, the dealer may forward your registration paperwork to the DMV for an added fee.

When registering your motor vehicle with the Oregon DMV, submit the following documents along with your application for new registration and titling credentials:

• The vehicle’s original certificate of title
• Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (if applicable)
• A bill of sale (if applicable)
• An odometer disclosure statement

Depending on the situation, you may need to submit additional documents as well.

To learn more about auto registration in OR and the steps you must take to register your newly acquired vehicle in person or by mail, review the information below.

In Person

“Where can I apply for car registration near me if I wish to submit my application materials in person?” you may wonder. To register your newly acquired vehicle in person, visit your local DMV office.

To save time at the DMV office, you may pre-apply online before heading in.

By Mail

To submit your application materials by mail, forward your paperwork to the Oregon DMV’s office in Salem. After applying, you will receive your new registration credentials in the mail within two to five weeks.

Your Oregon Vehicle Registration Fees

You must pay car registration application fees when you register your newly acquired vehicle with the DMV. Typically, these fees vary depending on the type of vehicle you wish to title and register in Oregon.

Download our detailed registration guide for information on applying for a car registration and more.