Connecticut DMV Services

1. When You Must Title & Register

• Most vehicles newer than 20 model years old must be titled and registered in Connecticut.
  • If the car is older than ~20 years, Connecticut doesn’t require a title but you still must register it; use prior registration or proof of ownership documents instead.
• Moving to Connecticut with a vehicle from another state, typically have up to 60–90 days from establishing residency to transfer the title and registration.

2. Proof of Ownership (Title & Bill of Sale)

For a New Vehicle

• Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MSO) properly assigned to you.
• If purchased from a dealer, the dealer generally handles this paperwork for you.

For a Used Vehicle

• The signed Certificate of Title from the seller (owner) with all assignments completed.
• A Bill of Sale (Form H-31) listing buyer, seller, sale price, and VIN.

Older Vehicles (20+ Years)

• Connecticut does not require a title for vehicles more than 20 model years old; instead, bring:
  • Last Connecticut registration in your name,
  • Or a bill of sale, and
  • A Supplemental Assignment of Ownership (Form Q-1) if needed.

4. Proof of Identification & Insurance

• Valid photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, passport, etc.).
• Connecticut auto insurance identification card in your name listing the vehicle. This must be presented to register the car.

5. Vehicle Compliance: Inspection & VIN

• Emissions and vehicle inspections: Connecticut requires emissions testing and VIN verification for many vehicles — especially if brought in from out of state — before registration.
  • 4 year old vehicles or older

6. Taxes

 Sales/use tax is based on Purchase price, accessories, Doc fee and any add ons.

• • 6.35% on most vehicles purchased at $50,000 or less;
  • 7.75% if priced over $50,000.

Note: For private to-private sales, sales tax is calculated on the higher of the purchase price or the car’s value (e.g., NADA).

• If lease vehicle sales tax is paid on the stream and will need the lessor CT Tax registration number

7. Quick Checklist

  Signed Certificate of Title or MSO for new cars
Copy of contract
Bill of Sale
Valid CT car insurance in your name
Copy of Driver’s License and EIN/FEIN if company
Emissions test/VIN verification (if required)
Vehicle color
CT Power of Attorney
Original Odometer