How to Transfer Car Insurance & Driving Credentials to a New State
Quality Verified
Updated: December 8, 2023
Quality Verified
Updated: December 8, 2023
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
There's likely a lot on your "to-do" list when you make an out-of-state move, including ensuring your vehicles are legal and safe to drive in your new state. Updating your license, registration and insurance is essential when moving across state lines.
Moving out of state will most likely change the cost of your car insurance premiums. While MoneyGeek found the average American driver pays an average cost of $1,424 a year in automotive insurance, that figure varies dramatically based on location, with state requirements and uninsured motorist rates helping determine policy rates.
Because of the differing state-by-state requirements, MoneyGeek created this valuable and informative guide. It breaks down the steps to take when moving and the auto needs for every state. No matter where your move takes you, you’ll find all the information you need to transfer your car insurance, change your vehicle registration from one state to another and change your driver’s license to a new state.
Steps to Change Auto Insurance and Registration in a New State
If you've never moved across state lines, you'll soon recognize the rules vary significantly from state to state. It's best to check your new state's department of motor vehicles website for detailed requirements to transfer your insurance, registration and driver's license properly.
To make moving more manageable, it helps to break down the process of transferring your insurance, registration and driver's license to a new state.
Step 1: Contact Your Current Insurance Provider
It's best to contact your current insurance provider as soon as possible. Don’t cancel your current insurance coverage until you have purchased a new policy. A lapse in coverage is illegal in most cases and could leave you financially responsible if you are involved in an accident.
If you are happy with your current coverage, your insurance provider will likely have the resources to easily transfer your insurance to your new state quickly and easily. Reach out to your agent and ask if they offer coverage in your new state. Staying with your current insurance provider may simplify the process and allow you to maintain any loyalty discounts.
Step 2: Learn Your State’s Insurance Minimums
Every state has different automotive insurance requirements. You'll want to know these requirements to understand if your insurance premiums could go up or down. Here are some of the essential insurance standards to know:
No-fault Insurance: Twelve states and Puerto Rico have no-fault insurance laws. These systems require insurance companies to compensate their policyholders for the cost of injuries, regardless of who was at fault.
With no-fault insurance, policies typically include personal injury protection (PIP). Each state sets different PIP minimums and benefits, including compensation for medical expenses, lost wages or other out-of-pocket expenses.
There are variations within the no-fault system, so it's best to review your state's requirements. If you move from a fault-based state to a no-fault state, be prepared to pay a higher premium.Bodily Injury Liability: This covers costs from injuries or deaths related to an accident. You'll see two numbers associated with these minimums: coverage for one person and coverage for all persons injured. For example, 25/50 means there's a limit of $25,000 in coverage for an individual and $50,000 for everyone involved in an accident. These are the minimum limits set by each state. You'll likely want to cover more than $50,000 in injury accident coverage.
Property Damage Liability: This coverage reimburses others for the damage you cause in an accident. This includes damage to another vehicle or structures like a building or fence. State minimums range from $5,000 to $25,000. You will likely want to have coverage beyond these state minimums.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Twenty states require additional coverage for uninsured motorists. This coverage will reimburse you when an accident is caused by an uninsured motorist or in a hit-and-run accident. Options are also available for underinsured motorist coverage, which covers expenses if another driver does not have enough insurance to pay for the entire cost of an accident.
Step 3: Shop Around for Quotes
Once you know your state’s minimum insurance requirements, you can get an accurate quote for a new policy. Use the minimum requirements to ensure you are comparing quotes accurately.
Several personal factors impact your car insurance premiums including the ages of all drivers on the policy and their driving records. Getting a personalized quote will help you get an approximate cost and enable you to compare companies. MoneyGeek’s comparison study will help you find and compare car insurance quotes and get the best rates.
Step 4: Purchase Your New Car Insurance Policy
Once you find the insurance coverage that best fits your needs at the right rate, you're ready to purchase your new insurance. Only when you have purchased new insurance and are fully covered should you cancel your previous insurance. As part of your new coverage, you should get new proof-of-insurance cards to carry in your car and provide to your new state's DMV when you go to register it.
Step 5: Complete an Emissions Test
Half of Americans must take one more step before heading to the DMV. Currently, 25 states require a vehicle emissions inspection, which is also known as a smog check. Emission requirements tend to vary based on the model year of your vehicle. Some older, classic models are exempt from smog checks, and new cars may not require one until they are a few years old.
Your state DMV website will let you know if you need to pass an emission inspection as a prerequisite for registration. It will also let you know where to get one and how long you have between your test and applying for new vehicle registration.
Step 6: Apply for a Driver’s License and Registration
The final step for most residents is to head to the closest DMV and apply for a new driver’s license and new resident vehicle registration. While most states offer a grace period before transferring documentation, the length of time you have depends on the state’s rules. Most, but not all states allow about 30 days to get your paperwork organized and head to your local DMV.
When you arrive, you'll likely need several personal documents. Each state is different, but here are examples of the items you'll probably need.
Driver’s License
- Proof of your identity is essential to getting a new license. You will need to prove your name, date of birth and Social Security number. You can provide this with your previous ID card, Social Security card and birth certificate.
- Proof of residency requires items with documentation of your new address. Examples of this include a mortgage or lease agreement, utility bills and employment stubs. Some states require two forms of residency documentation.
Registration
- Proof of insurance is provided by your insurance company. Many states now allow digital proof of insurance from a provider app on your phone.
- An emissions inspection report will be provided to you when your car passes state testing. Bring this along with you if you live in a state that requires emission testing.
- Your vehicle title and previous registration will likely be required to apply for your new one. This is necessary to ensure your vehicle is in good standing from your previous state. If you let your registration lapse, you may face fines in your previous state.
Step 7: Return Your Previous License Plates
A few states require that you return your previous license plates when you register your vehicle in a new state. As a final step, check your previous state's DMV website to see if you need to return your plates. While this might seem like an unnecessary part of the process, you may get some money back. For example, in Iowa, you can apply for a refund on the unused time on your annual registration.
Your state rules may allow you to skip steps or speed up the process. Each state has its own set of standards and regulations. It's essential to know and understand your individual state-specific information.
State Requirement Profiles
As you begin to address your auto needs in your new state, it's essential to learn and understand your particular state's requirements. Find your state's specific requirements, including insurance minimums and costs, as well as what you need for a new driver's license and registration.
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,221
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Social Security card
- Proofs of identifications (one of which contains a photograph)
- Two proofs of residency
- School enrollment documents
- Out-of-state license
Cost
$36.25 + $5 testing fee
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Certificate of title
- Vehicle identification number (VIN) / ownership documentation inspection
- Liability insurance
- Out-of-state title & registration
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$15
Title Transfer Fee
$1.25
Title Processing Fee
$1.50
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$984
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
50/100/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
90 days
Needed Items
- Social Security card
- License application
- Proof of identity
- Proof of your principal residence
- Out-of-state license
Cost
$20
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
10 days
Needed Items
- Application for title & registration (Form 812)
- Current out-of-state registration
- Title (if there is no lienholder)
Registration Fee
$100
Title Fee
$15
Title Transfer Fee
$15
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,284
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
15/30/10
Driver's License
Grace Period
10 days
Needed Items
- Social Security card
- License application
- Proof of residency
- Two proofs of identifications
- Out-of-state license
Cost
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
10 days
Needed Items
- Title and registration application
- Proof of insurance
- Proof of emissions test (if applicable)
- Photo ID
- Out-of-state title & registration
Registration Fee
$4.50 to $9.00
Title Fee
$4
Title Transfer Fee
$4
VIN Inspection Fee
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,189
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Personal injury protection
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Proof of residency
- Social Security card
- Two proofs of identifications
Cost
$40
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Proof of insurance
- Completed a vehicle registration application
- Bill of sale and odometer disclosure statement
- Proof of car assessment
- Proof of inspection
- Out-of-state title & registration
Registration Fee
$17 to $30
Title Fee
$10
Title Transfer Fee
$10
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,429
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
15/30/5
Low-cost policy limits for low-income drivers in the California Automobile Assigned Risk Plan are 10/20/3
Driver's License
Grace Period
10 days
Needed Items
- Social Security card
- License application
- Proof of birth date and lawful presence
- Two proofs of residency
- Payment form for fees
Cost
$36
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
20 days
Needed Items
- Completed application for title and registration
- Completed verification of vehicle form
- Emissions test results
- Proof of inspection
- Out-of-state title & registration
Registration Fee
$60
Title Fee
$20
Title Transfer Fee
$15
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,450
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
25/50/15
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Proof of identity
- Social Security card or proof of Social Security number
- Two proofs of residency
- Out-of-state license
- Proof of lawful presence
Cost
$28
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
90 days
Needed Items
- Vehicle identification number (VIN) verification certificate
- Photo ID
- Emissions test results
- Out-of-state title & registration
- Proof of insurance
Registration Fee
Title Fee
VIN Inspection Fee
$50
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,442
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Uninsured motorist
- Underinsured motorist
Required Amount
25/50/20
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- License application
- Proof of identity
- Out-of-state license
Cost
$40 application fee + $72 license fee
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Bill of sale certificate
- Emissions report / vehicle identification number (VIN) verification report
- Insurance identification card
- Proof of identity
- Out-of-state title & registration
- Application for registration and certificate of title
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$25
Title Transfer Fee
$25
VIN Inspection Fee
$10
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,483
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Personal injury protection
Required Amount
25/50/10
Driver's License
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Proof of identity
- Two proofs of Delaware residency
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of legal name change
- Out-of-state license
Cost
$40
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Certificate of title application
- Proof of insurance
- Proof that you've passed the emissions test
- Inspection results
- Out-of-state title
Registration Fee
$40
Title Fee
$35 to $55
Title Transfer Fee
$35
Title Processing Fee
$8
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,202
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Uninsured motorist
Required Amount
25/50/10
Driver's License
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- License application
- Proof of identity
- Proof of date of birth
- Proof of residency
Cost
$47
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Current license
- Proof of insurance
- Vehicle inspection certificate
Registration Fee
$72 to $155
Title Fee
$26
Title Transfer Fee
$7
VIN Inspection Fee
$10
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$2,208
Required Type
- Property damage liability
- Personal injury protection
Required Amount
10/20/10
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Proof of identity
- Social Security number
- Two proofs of residency
- Proof of legal name changes
- Out-of-state license
Cost
$48
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Form HSMV 82042
- Proof of insurance
- Driver’s license
- Out-of-state title
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$77.25
Title Transfer Fee
$75.25
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,638
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Two proofs of residency
- Out-of-state license
Cost
$32
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title / registration / license
- Proof of insurance
- Emissions test results (if applicable)
- Title / tag application
- Proof of inspection
- Manufacturer’s certificate of origin
- Proof of residency
Registration Fee
$20
Title Fee
$18
Title Transfer Fee
$18
Title Processing Fee
$1
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,066
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Personal injury protection
Required Amount
20/40/10
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- License application
- Out-of-state license
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of citizenship
- Proof of residency
Cost
Varies
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title & registration
- Proof of inspection
- Proof of vehicle weight from the manufacturer
- Application for registration form
- Vehicle arrival certification
- Application for duplicate motor vehicle certificate
- Tax certification
Registration Fee
Varies
Title Transfer Fee
$5 to $20
Title Processing Fee
$1
Governmental Services Tax
Varies
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$745
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
25/50/15
Driver's License
Grace Period
90 days
Needed Items
- Proof of residency
- Driver’s license or identification card
- Social Security card or number
Cost
Varies. For more information, click on the "Driver's License / ID Cards" tab and scroll down to "DL Fees."
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
90 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title & registration
- Certificate of title application
- Proof of Social Security number
- Photo ID
- Proof of residency
- Vehicle inspection certificate
- Proof of insurance
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$21
Title Transfer Fee
$14
VIN Inspection Fee
$5
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,134
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Uninsured motorist
- Underinsured motorist
Required Amount
25/50/20
Driver's License
Grace Period
90 days
Needed Items
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Two proofs of residency
- Proof of signature (e.g. credit or debit card, canceled check)
Cost
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Application for vehicle transactions
- Out-of-state title
- Photo ID with signature
- Odometer reading and car description
Registration Fee
$101 to $114
Title Fee
$50
Title Transfer Fee
$95
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$725
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of residency
- Proof of citizenship
- Name change (if applicable)
Cost
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title and license
- Title application
- Proof of insurance
- Vehicle inspection
- Photo ID with signature
- Proof of residency
Registration Fee
$21.35
Title Fee
$15
Title Transfer Fee
$9.50
VIN Inspection Fee
$5
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$778
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
20/40/15
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of residency
- Proof of citizenship
- Name change (if applicable)
Cost
$4
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title
- Driver’s license
- Title and registration application
Registration Fee
Title Transfer Fee
$25
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$931
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Personal injury protection
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
90 days
Needed Items
- Proof of identity, name, date of birth
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of residency
- Proof of citizenship
- Name change (if applicable)
Cost
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
90 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title
- Motor vehicle examination certificate
- Title and registration application
- Proof of insurance
Registration Fee
$39 to $49
Title Fee
$10
Title Transfer Fee
$10
VIN Inspection Fee
$20
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,405
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Personal injury protection
- Uninsured motorist
- Underinsured motorist
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- Driver’s license ID card application (form TC 94-30)
- Social Security number
- Proof of residency
- Birth certificate
- Previous state’s driving records
Cost
$43
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
15 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title & registration
- Out-of-state license
- Title and registration application
- Proof of insurance
- Vehicle inspection report
- Proof of payment for taxes in your previous state
Registration Fee
$25
Title Fee
$9
Title Transfer Fee
$17
Title Processing Fee
$22
VIN Inspection Fee
$6
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$3,041
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
15/30/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- License card application
- Out-of-state license
- Two proofs of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Birth certificate
- Proof of residency
- Proof of insurance
Cost
$32.23
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title & registration
- Driver’s license
- Vehicle application
- Proof of insurance
- Proof of sales tax payment (if already paid)
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$68.50
Title Transfer Fee
$3
Title Processing Fee
$8
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$607
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Uninsured motorist
- Underinsured motorist
- First-party medical expenses
Required Amount
50/100/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- Proof of residency
- Proof of citizenship
Cost
$35 application fee + $30 license fee
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title & registration
- Registration application (white and yellow copies)
- Excise tax recept
- Proof of insurance
- Use tax certificate form
Registration Fee
$35
Title Fee
$33
Title Transfer Fee
$33
VIN Inspection Fee
$33
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$2,127
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Personal injury protection
- Uninsured motorist
- Underinsured motorist
Required Amount
30/60/15
Driver's License
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- Proof of identity, name, date of birth
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of residency
Cost
$72
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title
- Title application
- Proof of insurance
- Safety inspection certificate
Registration Fee
Varies
Title Fee
$100
Title Transfer Fee
$50
Title Processing Fee
$20
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,112
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Personal injury protection
Required Amount
20/40/5
Driver's License
Grace Period
Once you have established residency
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- Driver’s license application
- Birth certificate
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of residency
- Proof of signature
Cost
$115
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
Once you have established residency
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title
- Proof of insurance
- Title & registration application
Registration Fee
$60
Title Fee
$75
Title Transfer Fee
$75
VIN Inspection Fee
$35
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$5,471
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Personal injury protection
Required Amount
20/40/10
Driver's License
Grace Period
Once you have established residency
Needed Items
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of citizenship
- Proof of residency
Cost
$25
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
Once you have established residency
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title or registration
- Proof of insurance
- Photo ID
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$15
Title Transfer Fee
$8
VIN Inspection Fee
$10
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,199
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Personal injury protection
- Uninsured motorist
- Underinsured motorist
Required Amount
30/60/10
Driver's License
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- Two proofs of identity
- Driver’s license application
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of passing the appropriate testing requirements (written exam and driving exam)
Cost
$32
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title & registration
- Title and registration application
- Lienholder information (if applicable)
- Odometer reading
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$30
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,112
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- Driver’s license application
- Social Security card
- Birth certificate
- Proof of residency
Cost
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title
- Photo ID
- Odometer reading
Registration Fee
$14
Title Fee
$9
Title Transfer Fee
$9
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,305
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Uninsured motorist
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
Once you have established residency
Needed Items
- Driver examination record (Form 100)
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of citizenship
- Proof of residency
Cost
Varies
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
Once you have established residency
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title or registration
- Title and license application
- Proof of insurance
- Statement of non-assessment
- Odometer disclosure statement
- Lien release (Form 4809), if applicable
Registration Fee
$7
Title Fee
$11
Title Transfer Fee
$6
Title Processing Fee
$6
Governmental Services Tax
Varies
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,216
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
25/50/20
Driver's License
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Proof of identity
- Proof of citizenship
- Proof of residency
- Proof of authorized presence
- Drive test documentation
Cost
$41.72
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title and license
- Statement of fact form
- Notarized signature form
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$12
Title Transfer Fee
$12
VIN Inspection Fee
$18.50
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$923
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Uninsured motorist
- Underinsured motorist
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful status, containing name and date of birth, and identity.
- Two proofs of residency
- Proof of Social Security number
Cost
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state registration
- Proof of insurance
- Signed lease (if applicable)
- Title application
- Proof that sales or excise tax
Registration Fee
$15
Title Fee
$10
VIN Inspection Fee
$10
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,900
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Current driver license, instruction permit or ID card
- Additional proof of identity
- Proof of Nevada residency
- Completed application
Cost
$42.25
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Proof of insurance
- Smog check
- Title or lienholder information
- Current registration, license plate and odometer reading
- Vehicle identification number (VIN) inspection
Registration Fee
$33
Title Fee
$29.25
Title Transfer Fee
$21
Title Processing Fee
$8.95
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$778
Required Type
- Financial responsibility only
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- Driver’s license application
- Proof of identity
- Proof of residency
Cost
$50
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title & registration
- Proof of residency
Registration Fee
$31.20 to $55.20
Title Transfer Fee
$25
VIN Inspection Fee
$20 to $50
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,674
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Personal injury protection
- Uninsured motorist
- Underinsured motorist
Required Amount
15/30/5
(Optional) basic policy limits are 10/10/5
Driver's License
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- Two proofs of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of residency
Cost
$24
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title
- Application for certificate of ownership
- Registration application
- Proof of insurance
- Photo ID
- Odometer reading
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$60
Title Transfer Fee
$60
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,133
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
25/50/10
Driver's License
Grace Period
Once you have established residency
Needed Items
- “None for the Road” DWI home study
- Birth certificate (original copies)
- Proof of Social Security number
- Two proofs of residency
- Proof of identification number
- Proof of identity
Cost
$18
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title
- Title and registration application
- Proof of insurance
- Odometer statement
- Manufacturer’s certificate of origin (MCO)
- Purchase agreement or dealer’s invoice (original or certified copy)
- Two proofs of residency
- Vehicle identification number (VIN) verification document
Registration Fee
$27 to $62
Title Fee
$5
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$3,433
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Personal injury protection
- Uninsured motorist
- Underinsured motorist
Required Amount
25/50/10
50/100 wrongful death coverage
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- Driver’s license application
- Proof of date of birth
- Social Security card
- Proof of residency
- Name change (if applicable)
Cost
$65 to $75
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Application for vehicle registration
- New York state license / non-driver ID
- Bill of sale and proof of sales tax payment / sales tax form
- Original title (or other proof of ownership)
- Proof of insurance
- Photo ID
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$50
VIN Inspection Fee
$10
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$841
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Uninsured motorist
- Underinsured motorist
Required Amount
30/60/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Proof of identity
- Proof of date of birth
- Proof of residency
- Proof of insurance
Cost
$5 a year
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- North Carolina driver license or ID
- Proof of liability insurance
- Out-of-state notarized title or registration
- Title application
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$56
Title Transfer Fee
$56
VIN Inspection Fee
$13.60
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$743
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Personal injury protection
- Uninsured motorist
- Underinsured motorist
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- Proof of identity
- Proof of residency
- Copy of driving record
Cost
$15
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title
- Title application
- Proof of legal name
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$5
Title Transfer Fee
$5
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$803
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license and title
- Proof of identity
- Proof of legal presence
- Proof of name change
- Two proofs of residency
- Proof of date of birth
- Social Security card
Cost
Varies
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Ohio certificate of title or memorandum of title
- Driver’s license
- Proof of Social Security number
- Photo ID
- Vehicle identification number (VIN) inspection
- Emissions test result
Registration Fee
$34.50
Title Fee
$15
Title Transfer Fee
$4.50
VIN Inspection Fee
$3.50
Additional Info
Where to go
Ohio BMV
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,299
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- Proof of identity
- Social Security number
- Name change (if applicable)
Cost
$23
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title
- Title application
- Proof of insurance
- Odometer disclosure
Registration Fee
$96
Title Fee
$11
Title Transfer Fee
$17
VIN Inspection Fee
$4
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,181
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Personal injury protection
- Uninsured motorist
- Underinsured motorist
Required Amount
25/50/20
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- License application
- Proof of residency
- Proof of citizenship
- Name change (if applicable)
Cost
$60
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title
- Title and registration application
- Certification of Oregon residency or domicile
- Vehicle identification number (VIN) inspection results
- Emissions test results
- Odometer reading
Registration Fee
$112
Title Fee
$93
Title Transfer Fee
$93
VIN Inspection Fee
$7
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,818
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Personal injury protection
Required Amount
15/30/5
Driver's License
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- License application
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of residency
- Name change (if applicable)
Cost
$35.50
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
20 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title
- Title application
- Proof of insurance
- Vehicle identification number (VIN) verification results
- Photo ID
Registration Fee
$38
Title Fee
$55
Title Transfer Fee
$53
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,822
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Signed license application
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Two proofs of residency
- Name change (if applicable)
Cost
$39.50
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title
- Title and registration application
- Proof of insurance
- Vehicle identification number (VIN) verification results
- Photo ID
- Proof of residency
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$52.50
Title Transfer Fee
$52.50
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,139
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Uninsured motorist
- Underinsured motorist
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
45 days
Needed Items
- License application
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of date of birth
- Proof of citizenship
- Name change (if applicable)
- Two proofs of residency
Cost
$12.50
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
45 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title & registration
- Proof of insurance
- Photo ID
- Original vehicle tax receipt
Registration Fee
$40
Title Fee
$15
Title Transfer Fee
$15
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$817
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Uninsured motorist
- Underinsured motorist
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
90 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- Two proofs of residency
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of citizenship
- Name change (if applicable)
Cost
$28
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
90 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title
- Title and registration application
- Damage disclosure statement
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$10
Title Transfer Fee
$10
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,018
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
25/50/15
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- Two proofs of residency
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of citizenship
Cost
$28
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title & registration
- Photo ID
- Proof of residency
- Emissions test results
- Proof of identity
Registration Fee
$26.50
Title Fee
$11
Title Transfer Fee
$1
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,316
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Personal injury protection
Required Amount
30/60/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
90 days
Needed Items
- Texas vehicle registration
- License application
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of residency
- Proof of identity
- Proof of insurance
Cost
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title & registration
- Proof of insurance
- Vehicle identification number (VIN) verification results
- Safety inspection results
Registration Fee
$51.75
Title Fee
$28 or $33
Title Transfer Fee
$28 or $33
VIN Inspection Fee
Up to $30.75
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,154
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Personal injury protection
Required Amount
25/65/15
Driver's License
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- License application
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of residency
Cost
$32
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title
- Title application
- Certificate of inspection
- Emissions test results
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$6
Title Transfer Fee
$6
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$812
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Uninsured motorist
- Underinsured motorist
Required Amount
25/50/10
Driver's License
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- License application
- Proof of identity
- Proof of date of birth
- Photo ID
Cost
$32
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title or registration
- Application for registration
- Proof of insurance
- Vehicle identification number (VIN) inspection results
- Bill of sale & odometer disclosure statement
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$35
Title Transfer Fee
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$790
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
25/50/20
Driver's License
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- License application
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of citizenship
- Proof of residency
Cost
$32
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title or registration
- Registration application
- Proof of insurance
- Photo ID
- Proof of residency
- Safety and emissions test results
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$15
Title Transfer Fee
$10
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,264
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
25/50/10
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of insurance
Cost
$54
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title
- Vehicle title application
- Odometer disclosure
- Emissions test results
Registration Fee
Title Fee
$15
Title Transfer Fee
$12
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$1,016
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Uninsured motorist
- Underinsured motorist
Required Amount
25/50/25
Driver's License
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state license
- License application
- Proof of identity
- Proof of residency
- Proof of Social Security number
- Name change (if applicable)
Cost
$5
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title
- Title application
- Odometer disclosure statement
Registration Fee
$51.50
Title Fee
$15
Title Transfer Fee
$10
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$933
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- First-party medical expenses
- Uninsured motorist
Required Amount
25/50/10
Driver's License
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- License application
- Proof of identity
- Proof of date of birth
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of citizenship
- Proof of residency
- Name change (if applicable)
Cost
$75
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
60 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title & registration
- Title application
- Photo ID
Registration Fee
$75
Title Fee
Title Transfer Fee
Title Processing Fee
$19.50
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Car Insurance
Average Annual Cost
$851
Required Type
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Required Amount
25/50/20
Driver's License
Grace Period
1 year
Needed Items
- Driver's license application
- Proof of identity (must be a certified original)
- Two proofs of residency (e.g. utility bill, rent receipt, bank statement)
- Proof of Social Security number
- Name change (if applicable)
Cost
$40
Vehicle Registration
Grace Period
30 days
Needed Items
- Out-of-state title & registration
- Title application
- Vehicle identification number (VIN) inspection form
- Proof of Wyoming insurance
Registration Fee
$30
Title Fee
$15
Title Transfer Fee
$15
VIN Inspection Fee
$10
Governmental Services Tax
Additional Info
Where to go
Budgeting for Your Move: States With Cheapest Auto Insurance
One of the most common questions people have when moving to a new state is, "Will my car insurance go up when I move?" The honest answer is, it depends. In some states, it may go down.
If you're moving to a no-fault insurance state like Michigan, you may pay more depending on the state you're coming from. Michigan has the most expensive auto insurance in the country at an average of $4,000 a year. However, that may change. In July 2020, new lower personal injury protection limits went into effect, lowering rates for many drivers.
Other high priced states include New York, Louisiana and Florida. According to the Insurance Research Council, Florida's insurance premiums are so high due to the state's 26.7% uninsured motorist rate. When one in four drivers do not pay for car insurance, it costs the three drivers that do have insurance more money.
If you're moving to Maine, Indiana or North Dakota, you'll likely find cheaper premiums than what you were paying. Those states have the cheapest auto insurance. Maine drivers only spend an average of $607 a year on car insurance. Maine is so affordable because less than 5% of its drivers are uninsured.
While location plays a significant role in how much you'll pay for auto insurance, there are three easy hacks for saving money on your premiums.
- Loyalty and Bundling: Insurance companies offer discounts if you have multiple policies with them and stay with them year after year. If you are purchasing a home, ask your auto insurance company about bundling homeowners and auto insurance for a discount.
- Shop Around: You may think your current car insurance is the best price for you based on catchy commercials or previous price comparisons. However, if your life has changed, your pricing may have changed as well. Getting a personalized quote may better reflect your current situation, especially if you're a reliable driver.
- Fix Your Credit: Your insurance rates can be directly related to your credit score. Higher credit scores translate to lower risk drivers for many insurance companies. To be eligible for lower rates, check your credit and fix any mistakes.
Expert Insight on Moving to a New State
About Danielle Kiser
sources
- AAA. "Digest of Motor Laws." Accessed September 9, 2020.
- Insurance Information Institute. "Auto insurance basics—understanding your coverage." Accessed September 10, 2020.
- Insurance Information Institute. "Background on: No-fault auto insurance." Accessed September 10, 2020.
- Insurance Research Council. "One in Eight Drivers Uninsured." Accessed September 11, 2020.
- Iowa State County Treasurers Association. "Motor Vehicle Frequently Asked Questions." Accessed September 11, 2020.