If you're purchasing a car, or if you have recently done so, then you will need to go through the process of having the vehicle's title registered in your name. There are different steps required to do this depending on the state that you are registering the vehicle in. Typically, you'll need to visit your local vehicle registration office with proof that you've purchased the car, your ID, and the cash to pay for registration fees. If you're ready to start driving the car and don't want to bother with all of this, consider these reasons why properly registering your vehicle is something you'll need to do.
Your Lender Might Require It
First of all, if you are purchasing your vehicle with financing, you should check the contract that you are signing with your lender. It's not uncommon for lenders to require vehicle purchasers to have their vehicles registered and to keep the registration current. If you don't do this, then you could be violating your contract, and you could even be at risk of repossession.
Your Insurance Company Might Require It
In most places, it's required to have car insurance on your vehicle to cover any accidents that might be your fault. Plus, you'll probably want to have coverage to protect you if your vehicle is damaged by a storm or for some other reason. Regardless, your insurance company might require that you have your vehicle registered in your name in order to offer you coverage.
You Might Get a Citation
There's a good chance that there are driving laws in your state that require you to have your vehicle properly registered in order to legally operate it on the highways and roads. You could get a citation if you don't have your vehicle properly registered, and you might have to pay a fine.
You Could Face Issues in Your Neighborhood
Many apartment complexes and neighborhoods have requirements that all vehicles be properly and legally registered. You could be fined by your landlord or homeowner's association if you don't comply, or your vehicle could be towed at your expense.
You Could Have Trouble Selling Your Car
If you have just recently purchased a car, then you might be planning on driving it for a long time. At some point, though, you might decide to sell it. If this is the case, then you might have problems with doing so if your vehicle is not titled and registered in your name.
For more information about title registration, contact a local registration and renewal company.
