Out-of-State Vehicle Registration in Colorado

If you've recently moved to Colorado and brought your vehicle with you, registering it with the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is a top priority. Colorado law requires new residents to complete vehicle registration within 90 days of establishing residency. Failing to do so may result in fines and penalties.

This guide outlines every step to successfully register your out-of-state vehicle in Colorado.

Who Needs to Register

You must register your out-of-state vehicle in Colorado if you:

• Have moved to Colorado with the intent to reside here
• Work in Colorado and keep your vehicle in the state
• Enroll your children in a Colorado public school

Residency is generally determined by where you live, work, or send your children to school. Once any of these apply, the 90-day registration window begins.

Required Documents

To register your out-of-state vehicle, gather the following documents:

• Out-of-State Title or Current Registration – The vehicle must be titled in your name.
• Proof of Identity – Such as a Colorado driver’s license or state ID.
• Proof of Colorado Auto Insurance
• VIN Verification – Required if the vehicle was previously titled outside Colorado. This can be completed by a licensed Colorado auto dealer, emissions station, or law enforcement officer.
• Emissions Test Certificate – Required in the Denver Metro area and certain other counties. Check if your zip code requires emissions testing using the Air Care Colorado website.
• Vehicle Weight Certificate – Necessary for trucks without a manufacturer’s weight rating label.

Registration Process

Once you've gathered all required documents:

1. Get a VIN Inspection and Emissions Test (if applicable).
2. Visit Your County DMV Office – Colorado registration must be done at the county level.
3. Pay All Fees and Taxes – Fees vary based on vehicle weight, age, taxable value, and location.

You can find your local DMV office through Colorado DMV Locations and Hours.

Registration Fees and Taxes

Fees are calculated using a combination of:

• Ownership Tax – Based on the vehicle’s taxable value and age.
• License Fees – Based on vehicle weight and class.
• Emission Fees and Inspection Costs – If required.

You can estimate your registration costs using the Colorado Title and Registration Fee Estimator.

License Plates

Once registered, you’ll receive Colorado license plates. The state offers several options, including standard, personalized, and specialty plates. Visit the Colorado License Plates page for a full list.

Additional Tips for New Colorado Residents

• If you're also applying for a Colorado driver’s license, check out the Colorado Driver’s License Eligibility Guide.
• Interested in obtaining a REAL ID while registering your vehicle? Here’s how to Get a REAL ID in Colorado.
• Be sure to understand Colorado's Hands-Free Driving Law, which affects how you can use electronic devices in your vehicle.

Emissions and Environmental Considerations

Certain counties require emissions testing before a vehicle can be registered. Counties like Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Denver, Douglas, and Jefferson are included in the emissions program. If your vehicle fails inspection, it must be repaired and retested before registration.

Renewing Your Registration

Vehicle registrations in Colorado must be renewed annually. You’ll receive a renewal notice by mail or email. Consider enrolling in Colorado DMV’s online services to manage your renewal conveniently.

Penalties for Failing to Register

If you fail to register your vehicle within the 90-day timeframe, you could face:

• Late registration penalties
• Possible traffic citations
• Difficulty renewing insurance or license

Make it a priority to handle vehicle registration soon after your move to avoid any legal or financial complications.

For more guidance, review the Rear-Facing Car Seat Law in Colorado to ensure your vehicle meets safety standards for young passengers.