You have 20 days to register your vehicle in PA when relocating from another state. Here are the steps.

Forms

Assemble all of the identification and paperwork you will need before your visit to PennDOT.

• Valid title in your name for the vehicle
• Proof of PA insurance, including effective and expiration dates
• A pencil tracing of the vehicles VIN (see below)
• Valid PA drivers license with photo
• Check or money order for appropriate fees

The primary form to initiate a new vehicle registration is Form MV-1, which can only be obtained at authorized PennDOT service centers and can only be filled out by an authorized agent.

Fees

Title issuance: $22.50
Record a lien on outstanding car loan: $27.50
Register a passenger vehicle: $36
Register a motorcycle: $18
Vanity license plates, if desired: $20 and up

VIN Tracing

Form MV-1 requires verification of your vehicle's identification number (VIN). Look for your vehicle's VIN plate, and make a pencil tracing of all the embossed information, including VIN number, gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), and gross axle weight rating (GAWR). If you can't find the plate or would rather seek the help of professionals, consult a certified inspection mechanic or notary public at a dealership. These are considered authorized agents by PennDOT, and they can photograph the information and sign off on its authenticity. If you are located out of state, check with the police department for a VIN verification.

Sales Tax

You are only responsible for PA sales tax if the vehicle was purchased less than six months ago. If that's you, bring your sales receipt to PennDOT at the time of registration.

Inspection

You have 10 days from the date of registration to have your PA vehicle safety inspected. PennDOT has a network of repair shops and garages that are certified as official inspection centers. A technician at one of these locations will examine your vehicle's lights, brakes, horn, and a host of other parts.

Emissions Testing

Pennsylvania participates in an environmental inspection and maintenance program to improve its air quality. Emissions inspections fall under the direction of Drive Clean PA, which maintains a Web site you should visit. Here you can find a list of nearby inspection locations, and more detail about the specific requirements of your region. Depending on the age and make of your vehicle, you may require annual inspections.

California Air Resources Board (CARB)

If your vehicle is new—2008 or newer, with a GVWR of less than 8,500 pounds and less then 7,500 miles on the odometer—it must be certified by CARB. New vehicles purchased at a dealership should carry this certification, and it will be processed along with the title paperwork by your dealer. Resold vehicles will require Form MV-9, which you can complete at the time of registration.