Car Registration Requirements for New New Jersey Residents
Residents relocating to New Jersey with a motor vehicle registered in another state must transfer title and registration according to state law. Registration obligations apply when individuals establish New Jersey residency through employment, property transactions, or other qualifying activities.
Timeline for New Jersey Residents
New residents must transfer vehicle title and registration within 60 days of establishing residency or before the current out-of-state registration expires, whichever occurs first. During declared public health emergencies, the deadline extends to 120 days.
Establishing New Jersey Residency
New Jersey residency is established through actions demonstrating intent to make the state a permanent home. Evidence includes maintaining employment in the state, owning or leasing residential property, registering to vote, enrolling dependents in educational institutions, and filing state income tax returns. Determination is based on the totality of circumstances rather than any single factor.
Required Documentation for Car Registration in New Jersey
New residents transferring vehicle registration must schedule an appointment at a motor vehicle agency and submit required documentation.
Essential Documents
- Proof of identification (valid driver's license)
- Original out-of-state certificate of title
- New Jersey automobile insurance meeting minimum coverage requirements
- Completed Universal Title Application (Form OS/SS-UTA)
- Completed Vehicle Registration Application (Form BA-49)
- Entity Identification Number (EIN) if the vehicle is owned by a business
- Application for Release of Title from Lienholder (Form OS/SS-54) for financed or leased vehicles
Insurance Requirements
New Jersey law mandates three types of automobile insurance coverage for all registered vehicles: liability insurance, personal injury protection, and uninsured motorist coverage.
| Coverage Type | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Bodily Injury Liability (per person) | $35,000 |
| Bodily Injury Liability (per accident) | $70,000 |
| Property Damage Liability | $25,000 |
| Personal Injury Protection (PIP) | $15,000 |
Application Submission Methods
New residents must submit title and registration applications in person at motor vehicle agencies. Appointments are required and can be scheduled through the online portal. Walk-in service is not available for title and registration transactions.
New Jersey Vehicle Inspection Requirements
New Jersey requires periodic safety and emissions inspections for registered vehicles. Inspection frequency depends on vehicle age and type. You must pass a safety and emissions inspection (usually OBD-II) within 14 days of registering your vehicle in NJ.
Inspection Schedule
Vehicles require inspection once every two years, with the exception of new vehicles. New vehicles require a five-year inspection. Inspections may be completed up to two months before the expiration date shown on the inspection sticker.
Vehicles Exempt From Inspection
Some vehicles are exempt from inspection, but requirements may vary, so be sure to check what requirements apply to your vehicle.
Registration Fees and Costs in New Jersey
New Jersey vehicle registration fees are calculated based on vehicle weight and model year. Fee structures differ for passenger vehicles, motorcycles, and other vehicle types.
Title Fees
Passenger Vehicle Registration Fees
Registration fees vary by vehicle weight and model year:
Vehicles older than two model years, under 3,500 pounds: $46.50
Vehicles older than two model years, over 3,500 pounds: $71.50
Vehicles within two model years, under 3,500 pounds: $59.00
Vehicles within two model years, over 3,500 pounds: $84.00
Additional Fees
- Motorcycle registration: $65
- Registration transfer: $4.50
- Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) annual fee: $250
Fee Discounts
Senior citizens age 65 and older and persons with disabilities receive a $7 reduction in passenger vehicle registration fees when they own or lease the vehicle. Recipients of Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Lifeline programs qualify for discounted registration fees.
Contact Information
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
225 East State Street, Trenton, NJ 08666
Phone: (609) 292-6500
New Jersey MVC
