Kansas DMV Services

Deadlines

• You generally must apply for title and registration within 60 days of the vehicle’s purchase (the date the title was assigned to you) to avoid penalties.
• If you’re a new Kansas resident with a vehicle from another state, you have up to 90 days from the date the vehicle is located in Kansas to complete title and registration.

Basic Documents Required

1. Proof of Ownership

New vehicle (from a dealer):

• Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) signed by the dealer.

Used vehicle (private sale or dealer):

• Title assigned/signed to you by the seller — including purchase price, date of sale, and odometer reading on the title.
• If the title does not provide space for purchase details, you may also need a bill of sale or sales affidavit.

2. Vehicle Identification & Inspection

• If the vehicle was previously titled in another state, a Motor Vehicle Examination (VIN inspection, Form MVE‑1) is required before Kansas will issue a title and registration.
• The inspection verifies the VIN and vehicle details before processing the new Kansas title.

3. Proof of Insurance

• Provide proof of current auto insurance that meets Kansas minimum requirements.

4. Taxes

• Sales tax: You must pay Kansas sales tax if the vehicle wasn’t taxed at purchase or was purchased out of state (any difference if higher), varies by county and city
• Trade in credit allowed
• Not reciprocal with CA
• Property tax: Must be paid at the time of registration and varies on customer’s address and vehicle being purchased

Quick Checklist 

Original title or MCO
Bill of sale or Purchase order
Proof of insurance
VIN inspection
Copy of contract
Vehicle color
Photo ID and proof of Kansas residence (often required) or EIN/FEIN number
Original odometer
Power of Attorney