Whether you’re a new resident, recently purchased a vehicle, or simply need to know Kentucky car registration, we got you covered. Here is everything you need to know about the steps and requirements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free car registration process in the state.
You have up to three months after moving into Kentucky to register your vehicle with the County Clerk’s Office in your new county of residence. In addition to that, you will be required to go through a sheriff’s inspection if you bought your vehicle in another state. Car registration renewal is also equally important in the state. However, Kentucky allows you to renew online depending on the type of plate you got.
How do I register my car in Kentucky?
The process involved in car registration is different if you have just moved in or have been a long-time state resident. If you are a new resident, firstly, you should obtain a driver’s license at the Driver Licensing Regional Office. Consequently, you can proceed with the car registration at the county offices.
Documents required for car registration if you are new to the state
- Proof of insurance
- Photo ID card
- Notarized KY title
- Form TC 96-182
In addition to these forms, if there has been a name change, you should submit legal proof of your name change (marriage license, divorce papers, etc.). In other words, if the name on your ID does not match the name on your title, then the necessary documents should be submitted.
What should be done if you purchased the car outside Kentucky?
- Schedule a Sherrif’s inspection.
- VIN verification.
- Obtain a “roadworthy” certificate.
- Receive Form TC 96-229
- Fill it out and bring it along with the documents mentioned above.
- Pay the fees.
How much is a car registration in Kentucky?
The cost of registering your vehicle in Kentucky varies depending on the weight of your vehicle and the county in which you register it. However, you will generally pay $21 for vehicle registration, $9 for the title price (or $25 for the speed title fee), and $5 for a vehicle inspection (if required). There will be an additional $22 cost if you have a car loan on your vehicle.
How is the registration renewal done in the state?
Car registration renewal is a yearly activity in Kentucky. The state allows both in-person and online renewal.
Steps for In-Person Car Registration Renewal
- Visit the local County Clerk’s Office.
- Submit the driver’s license, current registration, and original copy of your insurance policy.
- Pay the renewal fees.
It costs $21 for standard non-commercial vehicles, $18.50 for motorcycles, and $31.50 for farm vehicles in Kentucky for car registration renewal.
Steps for Car Registration Renewal Online
- Check if the plates are eligible for online renewal. For example, leased vehicles cannot be renewed online, and vehicles registered to the same owner in multiple counties must be registered separately.
- Renew before the registration expires with active insurance for at least 45 days.
- Head over to the Kentucky online renewal portal.
- Enter the title number and plate number.
However, you’ll need to pay an additional mailing fee of $2 in addition to the fees.
Car Insurance in Kentucky
Before you begin the car registration process in Kentucky, you must have the required car insurance. In addition, there are a lot of providers to choose from, so it can be challenging!
However, if you want to save time and money on auto insurance, use an insurance aggregator like Way.com, which will offer you many prices from various companies. With over 200+ companies in our network, you get the best deals in Kentucky.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is vehicle registration expensive in Kentucky?
Vehicle registration fees in Kentucky can vary depending on several factors. The varying rates, which can sometimes be expensive, are primarily due to the weight-based registration system, meaning vehicles with higher weight classes typically have higher registration fees.
Is Kentucky a one-plate state?
Every state has its own set of rules regarding automobile license plates, whether one, two, red, or blue. Kentucky only requires one license plate for cars, which must be mounted on the back of the vehicle.
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