Wisconsin DMV Services

🚗 1. When You Apply

• Within 30 days of purchase or establishing residency, you must title and register the vehicle to avoid penalties.
• Dealers usually handle this paperwork when you buy from them; private sales require you to do it.

📄 2. Proof of Ownership (Title Documents)

🆕 New Vehicle

• Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO) (also called MSO) — provided by the dealer.
• Dealer should supply all necessary purchase documents.

🚘 Used Vehicle (Private Sale or Dealer)

• Signed Certificate of Title from the seller
  • The seller must complete the assignment on the back of the title, showing sale price, date, and odometer reading (if required).
• If the vehicle was titled out‑of‑state, you must present the out‑of‑state title, properly assigned.

🪪 3. Odometer Disclosure

• Required for vehicles less than 10 years old.
• The odometer mileage must be on the title assignment or a separate disclosure statement.

🧾 4. Proof of Insurance

• Proof of Wisconsin auto liability insurance is required before you can register the vehicle.
• The insurance must meet Wisconsin minimum liability limits (for example 25/50/10 for many drivers).

🧍 5. Identification & Residency

Bring:

• A valid government‑issued photo ID (driver’s license or state ID).
• If new to Wisconsin, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, etc.).

💰 6. Taxes

• Sales tax is determined by the customer’s address

🕒 7. Timing & Residency Rules

• Within 30 days of purchase or establishing residency, you must title/ register the vehicle.
• New residents must also surrender their out‑of‑state title/registration when applying in Wisconsin.

📋 8. Quick Checklist 

✔ Original title or MCO
✔ Original Odometer
✔ Copy of contract
✔ Proof of liability insurance
✔ Driver’s License or EIN/FEIN number
✔ Bill of sale or Purchase order
✔ Power of attorney
✔ Fees
✔ Color of vehicle