Page 1 | Car-Reg.org

MichiganCar Registration

Page 2 | Car-Reg.org

Bonus

Features

24-Hour Emergency Roadside Assistance Benefits

24-Hour Towing Service

24-Hour Mechanical First Aid

24-Hour Tire Change Service

Customers are covered for emergency road service throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Customers are entitled to emergency towing service at no out-of-pocket cost for any tow up to 75 dollars. One service per seven days, two services per contract. Extended distance will be an additional expense covered by the customer.

Customers are entitled to any service requiring minor adjustments (exclusive of parts) to enable a disabled vehicle to proceed under its own power, where available.

Customers may have their tire changed with their inflated and functional spare tire.

Congratulations on your 60-dayRoadside Assistance membershipWhen out on the road, you will know that you are covered and protected by an organization that cares about the safety of you and your family. Our customer service representatives respond quickly to provide you the best service and protection available anywhere.

Page 3 | Car-Reg.org

Rental Car Discounts

24-Hour Lost Key Service

24-Hour Emergency Delivery

24-Hour Emergency Battery Service

Map Routing Service

Customers are entitled to take advantage of our rental car discount codes and pre-negotiated group rates, which are honored at thousands of locations throughout the U.S. and abroad.

If keys are locked inside a customer’s vehicle, the customer will be assisted in gaining entry to the vehicle’s passenger compartment only. Locksmith services may be dispatched as needed at the customer’s expense for labor and key making.

A service truck will deliver emergency supplies of gasoline, water, oil or other necessary supplies. Customers pay only for the cost of the supplies.

Customers are covered for battery boosts and minor adjustments to alternators, starters, etc. while on the road.

We will, at no charge, provide customers with a four-color mapping and travel route information to destinations they specify.

Theft And Hit & Run Protection

A $500 reward is offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone responsible for Hit & Run damages or stealing customers’ vehicles. Whenever you travel, you will like the secure and confident feeling of knowing that you are protected by NSD’s Roadside Assistance. Fast response and excellent service are just two reasons why millions of motorists rely on NSD’s Roadside Assistance for on-the-road protection.

Page 4 | Car-Reg.org

Follow the link in your confirmation email to start redeeming your $25 Gas Coupon.

*PLEASE SAVE ALL THE INFORMATION FOR YOUR RECORDS. You will use your log in information throughout the course of your complimentary gas membership.

CONGRATULATIONS! Redeem Your $25 Gas Card Online

Keeping You Safe Mile After MileOnce your purchase is processed, you will receive an email with the information you need to start your 60-day Roadside Assistance membership.

Page 5 | Car-Reg.org

Minimum Insurance Requirements

Replacing Your Vehicle Registration

MVD Hours and Locations

MVD Hours and Locations

License Plates

Vehicle Registration in Arizona

Renewing Your Vehicle Registration

Registering Your Vehicle in Arizona

Updating Your Vehicle Registration

Vehicle Safety Tips

7

14

23

24

17

6

11

8

15

19

Contents

Registration Insurance Requirements

Replacing Your Vehicle Registration

Official Forms

Secretary of State (SOS) Office Locations and Hours

License Plates

Vehicle Registration in Michigan

Renewing Your Vehicle Registration

Registering Your Vehicle in Michigan

Updating Your Vehicle Registration

Vehicle Safety Tips

Tablet of

Page 6 | Car-Reg.org

Vehicle Registration in Michigan

Getting a vehicle is an exciting experience. Whether you have acquired a vehicle for the first time or have purchased multiple vehicles in the past, making the decision to obtain a car is a big step, and it must be taken carefully to avoid potential inconveniences.

Whenever you purchase a car, whether it is new or used, it must be registered to be legally driven in Michigan. Also, when you change your residential address to another state, you will have to follow the procedure to transfer your registration.

The entire process may seem complicated, but it can be fairly straightforward. This in-depth guide will review each step in the process of registering your vehicle. It will also discuss how you can transfer your registration from another state and how to renew your vehicle registration even when you are in another state.

Page 7 | Car-Reg.org

Before you start the registration process, you should know that every car in Michigan is required to have insurance in order to be driven on any road or highway. This is vital, as you must carry proof of vehicle registration at all times and will need your insurance information in order to register your car or renew your registration.

The Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) needs to ensure you are protected in case you are part of an accident that has caused injuries, damages or death. Michigan requires you to have no-fault automobile insurance. There are several options from which you can choose. However, regardless of which you buy, all car insurance must have three basic parts:

Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Pays for all required medical expenses if you result hurt in an auto accident. That includes lost wages for up to three years.

Property Protection (PPI): Pays up to $1 million for the damage caused by your vehicle to other people’s property in MI.

Residual Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability (BI/PD): Pays your defense costs and any damages you are responsible for (based on the limits of the policy) in an accident in which someone died or was seriously injured.

The minimum coverage limits that you must purchase are:

$20,000 per person who is hurt or killed in an accident.

$40,000 for each accident if several people are hurt or killed.

Up to $10,000 for damage caused by your car to property in another state.

These minimum limits are also known as 20/40/10.You can learn more about Michigan car insurance here.

Registration

Insurance Requirements

Page 8 | Car-Reg.org

Registering Your

Vehicle in Michigan

Visit your local Secretary of State (SOS) office.

All owners must bring proof of identification such as the driver’s license, ID, etc.

Bring the signed title.

If there is more than one person listed on the title as new owners, all must show up to sign. If an owner cannot appear and wants to send an agent instead, he or she must complete an Appointment of Agent form along with a copy of their license or ID.

Whether your vehicle is new or used, it must be registered in Michigan before it can be driven on any street. However, the registration process may vary slightly depending on circumstances like your car’s age, your military status and your place of residence. To learn how to properly register your vehicle in Michigan by reviewing the following sections.

Register a New Vehicle Usually, if you bought your new car at a dealership, you will not have to worry about registering it since the dealership will handle all paperwork, collect applicable fees and provide you with the necessary documentation. However, if you bought your new car using a different method, you will have to register it on your own. You must register your car within 15 days of gaining possession of it in order to avoid a $15 late fee.

Just follow the below steps:

Page 9 | Car-Reg.org

Register a Used VehicleIf you bought a used car from dealership, the dealer will take care of the registration. On the other hand, if you bought it from a private party or from an individual, you will have to transfer it to yourself within 15 days of the purchase. To register your car in MI, you will need to:

Pay all applicable fees and taxes.

Visit your local SOS office.

Bring the signed title, which must include the odometer reading, the seller’s signature, the lienholder’s signature (if applicable) and the vehicle identification number (VIN).

If there is more than one person listed on the title as owners, all must show up to sign. If an owner cannot appear and wants to send an agent instead, he or she must complete an Appointment of Agent form along with a copy of their license or ID.

All owners must bring proof of identification such as the driver’s license, ID, etc.

Bring proof of Michigan no-fault auto insurance.

Pay all the fees and taxes.

are exempt from the use tax on the vehicle as long as the car comes from your parent, sibling, child, grandparent, grandchild or legal guardian.

Register an Out-of-State VehicleIf you bought a new vehicle in a different state or a used vehicle that was previously registered in another state or country, you will need to:

Visit your local SOS office.

Present proof of Michigan no-fault car insurance. You cannot use your out-of-state auto insurance coverage.

Present your current out-of-state vehicle title.

If there is more than one person listed on the title as new owners, all must show up to sign. If an owner cannot appear and wants to send an agent instead, they must complete an Appointment of Agent form along with a copy of their license or ID.

If your title is being held by a lienholder, present your out-of-state vehicle registration.

All owners must bring proof of identification such as the driver’s license, ID, etc.

Pay all the required fees.

Bring proof of Michigan no-fault auto insurance.

If the car is a gift or transfer from a family member, you

Registration for Military MembersThe process for registering a car in Michigan differs slightly for members of the military. The requirements will vary depending on whether you are a Michigan resident or

Page 10 | Car-Reg.org

Complete and sign an Application for Michigan Vehicle Title (TR11L).

If you want the registration to be mailed to a different address, attach a Special Mailing of Title Request (TR-114) to your application.

Include a copy of the title.

Attach proof of Michigan no-fault car insurance.

Make check or money order made payable to “State of Michigan” for the amount of the fees.

Michigan Department of State The Special Services Branch 7064 Crowner Drive Lansing, Michigan 48918 517-322-1473

The vehicle fees will vary based on your vehicle’s age. If the car was manufactured in 1984 or any year after that, fees will be based on the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (ad valorem). If the car was manufactured before 1984, fees will be based on the vehicle’s weight. Registration Transfer Fee: $8

not. To learn more, read the sections below.

Michigan Military in State

If you are a Michigan resident and a military active member stationed in Michigan, you can register your car by simply following the same process as if you were registering a new or used vehicle.

Non-Residents Military in Michigan

If you are an out-of-state military personnel stationed in Michigan, you are not required to register your car in Michigan. You may drive with your out-of-state plates as long as you keep current and valid registration and insurance.

Michigan Military Out of State

If you are a Michigan resident stationed outside Michigan, you need to register your car by sticking to the below process:

Submit the documents and fees to:

Page 11 | Car-Reg.org

Renewing YourVehicle Registration

Like your driver’s licenses and other vehicle-related documents, your vehicle registration expires periodically and must be renewed. If your vehicle expires, you will not be able to legally drive it on Michigan streets or highways. To learn how to renew your vehicle registration, follow the below steps according to your preferred renewal method.

The SOS will mail you a renewal notice 45 days before your renewal due date. This notice contains a detailed description of the various fees you must pay during your annual vehicle registration payment, which documents you will need to submit and which payment options you have.

Renewing OnlineOne of the easiest ways to keep your important vehicle-related documents up to date is to update or renew them using the SOS’s online services. The first method you may use for renewing your vehicle registration online is to use the Online Renewal PLUS option. This renewal option lets you not only renew your registration but also change your address and or complete

Page 12 | Car-Reg.org

Express RenewalExpress renewal allows you to renew your vehicle registration, but you may not change your address. To use it, simply follow these steps:

more than one renewal at once. To use it, just follow these instructions:

Visit the SOS online services page, available here.

Visit the SOS online services page, available here.

Under the Vehicle section, click on “Renew Vehicle Plate/Tab.”

Under the Vehicle section, click on “Renew Vehicle Plate/Tab.”

Choose “Individual” and click on “Next.”

Choose “Individual” and click on “Next.”

Under the section for Online Renewal PLUS, enter:• Your full name• Your date of birth• Your eye color • The last four digits of your Social Security

Number (SSN)• Your MI driver’s license or ID card number

Click on “Next” and follow the prompts to finish the renewal.

Under the section for Express Renewal, enter your license plate or registration number.

Click on “Next” and follow the prompts to finish the renewal.

Renewing in PersonIf you are not able to renew your vehicle registration online, you have the option of renewing in person. In some situations, your renewal notice will indicate that you must renew in person. To do so, just follow these simple steps:

Page 13 | Car-Reg.org

Branches are open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Some offices are open from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday. PLUS branches open from 9:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. SUPER!Center branches open from 9:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. during weekdays and from 9:00 a.m. to noon on Saturday.

Self-Service Stations

You may also renew at a self-service station in which you will process the registration by yourself in a touchscreen machine. These stations are located in different branches. You may access an SOS branch office locator here.

Renewing by MailFor your convenience, SOS allows you to renew your vehicle registration by mail as long as you received a renewal notice and your vehicle information is correct. Renewing by mail is very simple if you follow the following process:

Visit your nearest SOS office. Collect your proof of no-fault insurance.

Collect your registration renewal notice.

Present your renewal notice or your old registration.

Make a check or money order payable to the SOS, or make a credit card payment using the renewal worksheet.

Provide proof of Michigan no-fault insurance.If you are out of state, you may request you address to be changed to a temporary address so you receive your renewal there.

Present your driver’s license.

If the model is 1984 and newer, the manufacturer’s suggested retail (or base) price (ad valorem).

Pay the renewal fees.

If the model is 1983 or older, the weight.

Send the documents, notice and fee to:

Michigan Department of State Renewal by Mail 7064 Crowner Dr. Lansing, MI 48980-0001

If you have any questions about this process, you may send an email to  renewalbymail@michigan.gov

Fees

Registration fees vary based on the vehicle’s model. You could be charged by retail price or by weight.:

Late renewal fee: $10

Page 14 | Car-Reg.org

Replacing Your Vehicle Registration

If something happens to your vehicle registration documents, you should request a replacement as soon as possible. Remember that driving without your plates, registration sticker or card is a risk, as you may be pulled over and receive a traffic ticket. For more information on the replacement process for vehicle registration, review the following sections.

Replacing Registration Replacing a registration is a simple process, and you may request a duplicate car registration in person or online. If you want to request one in person, you must simply visit your local SOS office and present your license plate number. To replace online, follow the steps:

Visit ExpressSOS here.

Enter:

• Your full name

• Your date of birth

• Your eye color

Under the Vehicle section, click on “Duplicate Registration.” Click on “Next” and follow the prompts to finish

the replacement request.

Select the option for “Individual” and click “Next.”

• The last four digits of your Social Security Number (SSN)

• Your MI driver’s license or ID card number

Fees

Duplicate registration Free

$5Replacement plate tab

Replacement License Plate and tab $5

Page 15 | Car-Reg.org

Updating Your Vehicle Registration

It is essential to keep your personal information up to date on all SOS documents, including your title and vehicle registration. Whether you change your name or your address, you will need to notify the SOS to ensure that all of your information is promptly updated. The following sections discuss the steps for changing your name and address with the Michigan SOS.

Changing Your NameIf your name has changed due to marriage, divorce or personal preference, you are required to update it on all of your identification documents and cards, including your vehicle registration. Fortunately, performing this update this is simple. To update your name on your SOS registration, follow these steps:

Provide proof of identity, such as your driver license or ID.

Pay the applicable fee. Changing your name on a vehicle registration is free. Changing your name on a car title costs $15.

Changing Your AddressIf you have recently moved to a new address, it is essential that you update the address on your registration card. You may choose between changing your address online, in person or by mail. For more information on the process, review the following sections.

Online

The fastest and most convenient way of updating your address on your vehicle registration is to do so online. To change your address online, you must:

Visit your nearest SOS office.

Present your current registration.

Provide proof of your name change, such as:

• A divorce decree or marriage certificate

• A court order

Page 16 | Car-Reg.org

Note that you may not use the online service to update your address if you:

Download the Change of Address/Voter Registration form.

Complete the form and submit it to:

Michigan Department of State PO Box 30764 Lansing, MI 48909-8264

Visit ExpressSOS here.

Visit your nearest SOS office.

Have an enhanced driver’s license or ID card.

Under the Customer Information section, click on “Update Address/Profile Details.”

Present your registration.

Ordered a duplicate driver’s license, ID card, title or disability parking sticker.

Select the option for “Individual” and click “Next.”

Present your driver’s license.

Submitted an address change within the last 10 days.

Enter:

• Your full name

• Your date of birth

• Your eye color

• The last four digits of your Social Security Number (SSN)

• Your MI driver’s license or ID card number

Click on “Next” and follow the prompts to finish the replacement request.

Alternatively, you can update your address by mail during your registration renewal. Simply cross out the incorrect information on your renewal notice and replace it with your new address. Be sure to include your county.

In Person

To update your address in person:

By Mail

If you cannot change your address online, you may do so by mail. In order to update your address by mail, you must:

Page 17 | Car-Reg.org

License Plates

Once you register your car in Michigan, you must display your license plates with their current registration stickers. License plates are as important as your driver’s license, as they help to identify your car.

All passenger vehicles in Michigan must carry one front license plate and one back license plate. The plates identify what type of registration you have and serve as a means of locating you if necessary. Your license plates may be replaced if something happens to them. Learn more about license plates in Michigan by reading the sections below.

Page 18 | Car-Reg.org

Visit ExpressSOS here.

Under the Vehicle section, click on “Renew Vehicle Plate/Tab.”

Standard plates: These are the regular license plates.

Select the option for “Individual” and click on “Next.”

Fundraising plates: These plates help you support your chosen cause or state supported university.

Under the Online Renewal PLUS section, enter:

• Your full name

• Your date of birth

• Your eye color

• The last four digits of your Social Security Number (SSN)

• Your MI driver’s license or ID card number

Click on “Next” and follow the prompts to request your replacement plates.

Getting Custom PlatesThe state of Michigan offers several types of custom license plates. So far, Michigan offers seven different types of license plates:

Replacing Your License PlatesIf your license plates are lost, damaged or stolen, you must request replacements as soon as possible. You may do so either online or in person. If you want to request replacement plates in person, you must simply visit your local SOS office and present your license plate number. If your plates were stolen, you must report the theft to the police or sheriff’s office. The cost to replace standard plates is $5.

To replace your plates online, you must:

Veteran/Military Service plates: These are plates that honor your service in different military conflicts.

Historical plates: These are plates for vintage vehicles.

Collector plates: These are plates that look like the regular ones but are for collection purposes only and cannot be used for vehicle registration.

Special organization plates: These plates are for member of organizations.

Personalized plates: If you buy these plates, you may choose the numbers and letters on the plate number. You may apply it to any of the license described above.

To order personalized plates, visit Plate It Your Way and follow the instructions to get your personalized license plate. All the other types of license plates may be bought here.

The special license plates fees will vary depending on the type of plate you have. Consult the fee schedule according to your plate.

Surrendering Michigan License PlatesIn most scenarios, you will not need to surrender your Michigan license plates to the SOS. However, there are some situations in which you may want to surrender your license plates to the SOS. For example, when something happens to your plates and you need to replace them, you may surrender your plates. To do so, simply visit your nearest SOS with your old license plates.

Page 19 | Car-Reg.org

Vehicle Safety Tips

The most important aspect of driving is safety. Before you begin driving any vehicle, it is essential that both you and the vehicle are well prepared for any trip you make. This means checking and making any changes to your vehicle or your behavior to make sure that you are able to drive safely at all times.

Emergency Kit One of the essentials to safe driving is having a basic emergency kit available in your vehicle at all times. This kit should include basic items such as water, extra batteries, rope, a first aid kit, matches, a whistle, etc. During winter months, it is also important to carry items such as blankets, non-perishable foods, extra gloves, socks and a shovel.

Page 20 | Car-Reg.org

Winter Driving One of the most dangerous times to drive is during the winter, especially if you live in an area that experiences a significant amount of snowfall. Therefore, it is best to consider these tips to drive safely during the winter.

Avoid Rushing

Roads are often covered in snow and ice after it snows, so instead of driving fast and risking an accident in your rush to get to your destination, try leaving a few minutes earlier than usual. This will allow you to drive slower and help you to avoid potentially dangerous actions or situations on the road.

Do Not Panic If You Skid or Slip

In the case that your vehicle does ski or slip while driving make sure you do not panic and slam down on your brakes. Instead all you need to do is apply slow and even pressure on your brakes until you stop. This will prevent you from spinning further out of control.

Check Your Vehicle

Before you even leave your house, make sure your vehicle’s controls, brakes, tank, tires, antifreeze, exhaust, etc. are all working properly. It is also important that you remove all ice and snow from your car before you begin driving. This prevents the snow from blocking your view while you drive.

Page 21 | Car-Reg.org

Drinking and Driving Every year, thousands are killed as a result of drinking and driving. These deaths are easily prevented. It only requires that drivers plan ahead of time by taking certain steps.

Even before you begin drinking, you should arrange for someone else to be the designated driver. If that person also becomes intoxicated, it is important that you arrange to take a taxi or use alternative transportation, such as public transportation or a ride-share service. If you see someone you suspect is drunk, and they exhibit signs of intoxication while driving, such as making wide turns, weaving, swerving, braking erratically or turning abruptly, call 911 and report the driver to authorities immediately. Be sure to avoid the driver on the road to ensure your own safety.

Using Your PhoneUsing your cellphone is one of the most dangerous actions you take while driving. During the few seconds your attention is diverted to your phone, a major accident could occur. Make sure not to text, use the internet or talk on the phone while you drive to help prevent accidents.

What to AvoidDriving is not always a relaxing experience. There are certain actions that can be both an annoyance and a danger to you while on the road. These are often avoidable if you make sure to take the necessary steps towards preventing them, as well as stopping them after you discover them.

Page 22 | Car-Reg.org

Car Accidents

The best way to avoid car accidents is to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive and will not cause you any problems. To do this, you only need to regularly check that your brakes are functioning and your tires are filled properly. Additionally, you should have your car serviced every 5,000 miles to ensure that it remains in working order.

Wasting Gas

Purchasing gas can be a considerable expense for those who drive frequently. Fortunately, saving on gas is possible if you take a few steps. Some of the ways you can start saving gas are not using air conditioning, not leaving your engine running and avoiding speeding above 60 mph. This will greatly increase your car’s miles per gallon, saving you money over time.

Another way to save on gas is to make sure that your vehicle is functioning properly. You can do this by checking that your tires are properly inflated, your engine is well tuned and your octane level is the correct amount for your vehicle’s needs.

Aggressive Driving

Aggressive driving and drivers should both be avoided to prevent any on-road aggression or accidents. Aggressive driving is categorized by actions like aggressive tailgating, verbally or physically harassing another driver, preventing another driver from merging or passing, etc.

If you are an aggressive driver, you are putting others at risk every time you do any of the above behaviors. If you encounter a frustrating situation on the road, instead of becoming aggressive, take a moment to breathe and relax before moving on.

Page 23 | Car-Reg.org

Appointment of Agent

Application for Michigan Vehicle Title

Michigan Change of Address/Voter Registration

Renewal-by-Mail License Plate Order Form

Special Mailing of Certificate of Title

Official

Forms

Page 24 | Car-Reg.org

Secretary of State (SOS) Office Locations and Hours

If you need to visit a Secretary of State (SOS) office in person, it is essential that you find the office closest to you to avoid traveling far. In order to find the SOS closest to your location, along with further information regarding the office, such as its business hours and contact information, click here.

If you would like to schedule an appointment at the SOS office, reserve a spot in line before you arrive or more, click here. You may avoid visiting the office if you use the online services to renew or duplicate your registration.

If you have any questions, you can contact the Michigan Department of State here or by calling its toll-free number, 888-SOS-MICH (888-767-6424). You may call Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The SOS operates according to the following business hours:

Office Hours

Branches are open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

Offices are open from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, except those in city buildings, which are open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

PLUS branches open from 9:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.

SUPER!Center branches open from 9:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. during weekdays and from 9:00 a.m. to noon on Saturday.

Regular or Certified MailMichigan Department of State Legal Services Administration PO Box 30204 Lansing, MI 48909

Overnight Mail or DeliveryMichigan Department of State Legal Services Administration Richard H. Austin Building 430 W. Allegan, 4th Floor Lansing, MI 48918

Page 25 | Car-Reg.org