Arkansas DMV Services

Deadlines

• Apply for title and registration within 60 calendar days of purchasing a vehicle, transferring ownership, or becoming an Arkansas resident. If you wait longer, penalties and extra fees apply.

Basic Requirements for Title & Registration

1. Proof of Ownership

• New vehicle: Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO) properly assigned to you.
• Used vehicle: The current title signed over to you by the seller.
• Bill of Sale / invoice: Shows the purchase price (especially useful for sales tax calculation).

2. Odometer and VIN Requirements

• Odometer disclosure: Required for most cars under 20 years old. Usually found on the title or on a separate form (Form 10-313).
• VIN inspection: Required if the vehicle has an out-of-state title branded “salvage” or similar. Must be done by law enforcement or an authorized agent.
• Title only can be processed and will need sales tax paid + local tax + title fee, no insuranceis needed

3. Insurance & Identification

• Auto liability insurance: You must have valid Arkansas minimum liability coverage before titling or registering.
• Identification: Bring your valid driver’s license or other state ID.

4. Personal Property and Tax Documents

• Personal property tax assessment or proof of payment: You must show the car has been assessed or that taxes are paid for the current year.
• Sales tax: Paid as part of the title/registration process.

5. Lien Information (If Financed)

• If you financed the car, provide the lienholder’s details so the lien is recorded on the Arkansas title.

6. Taxes

 6.5% Sales tax based on purchase price, accessories, doc fees, warranties, etc. + County or city tax

• Late penalties: Fees if you miss the 60-day deadline.
• For lease vehicles is usually paid on the stream unless lessor is not registered with the state and have a tax exemption certificate
• State is NOT reciprocal with CA
• Trade in allowed.   State will allow a trade in credit on a sale not on the contract if the sale was completed within 60 days of the new vehicle purchase and will need to provide proof of sale

Notes for New Residents or Out-of-State Vehicles

• If you move to Arkansas with a vehicle, you must title and register it within 60 days of establishing residency.
• Out-of-state title and registration and meet the same requirements listed above.

Quick Checklist

  Proof of ownership, original title or MCO
Bill of sale/invoice
Odometer disclosure (if applicable)
Proof of insurance
Personal property tax proof
VIN inspection (if required)
Completed application form
Fees & taxes payable
Power of Attorney (if applicable)
Vehicle color