Related Questions from DMV Answers

• Do I have to unregister my vehicle if I sell it?

  • Registration

  Sell Car and Unregister After selling your car you may, depending on your state, have to notify your local DMV. This may require submitting a specific form, surrendering your license plates, or, in the case of Arkansas, making a phone call. This allows the DMV to update your vehicle registration file and, more importantly, releases you from liability. Even if your state does not require notification, it's still recommended. All buyers of used cars must register immediately. If you're new to the driving game and are unsure of how to apply for vehicle registration, or want to learn about registration renewal, contact your local DMV...

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• I lost my vehicle registration, what should I do?

  • Registration > Duplicate Registration

  To replace a lost vehicle registration, you must go through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). In some states this means visiting your local county treasurer or assessor.  A lost car registration requires immediate attention. Otherwise you run the risk of getting ticketed for operating a motor vehicle without proof of registration. Applying for a duplicate registration certificate is a simple process that can be completed in minutes. Each state has different identification requirements and fees and methods for applying for a new registration card.  Every state allows you to apply in person. Others provide mail, online and phone options, as seen in the grid below...

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• How can I check my vehicle registration status?

  • Registration > Registration Renewal

  You can easily obtain current vehicle registration status by contacting your local motor vehicle office.  Though most state DMV offices send out registration renewal notices, sometimes these notifications get lost in the mail, or don't find your mail box because you never got around to notifying the DMV of your new mailing address. Consequently, it's not until you get pulled over that you discover your car registration is expired.  So for peace of mind purposes, it's always wise to know the current status of your car registration. Fortunately for you, every state DMV office allows you to obtain this information in person and by phone. A few even by Internet...

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• Where can I find a motor vehicle accident report form?

  • Reports and Records

  No one expects an auto accident to happen to them. What would you do? Are you prepared? The first thing to remember is to keep your cool. Never flee the scene of an accident. If possible, move your vehicle from the road to allow emergency vehicles easier access and to prevent another accident. Make sure your engine is off. If you have passengers, check to see if they need medical attention. If other cars were involved, check to see how the drivers and passengers are doing. If needed, call 911. If the police haven’t already arrived, contact them next to file a report. If you have a camera handy, take pictures of the overall scene of the accident. If there are witnesses, you should talk to all of them to see what they saw. As soon as possible, you will need to inform your insurance..

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• What if my car fails the vehicle inspection?

  • Registration > Vehicle Inspection

  The grid below highlights how your state requires you to handle a failed vehicle inspection. Generally, you’ll need to make the necessary repairs and return the vehicle for another inspection. However, some states offer perks such as free re-inspections for returning the vehicle within a certain amount of time and/or to the same auto inspection station. In addition to taking advantage of any freebies your state offers, it’s important to make the repairs and return for a re-inspection in a timely manner in order to handle vehicle registration or registration renewal on time, as well as avoid late fees, citations, and other penalties. NOTE: If the grid states you don’t have to get a vehicle inspection in your state, be sure to double-check with your motor vehicle licensing..

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