Illinois Vehicle Registration
You’ll register a car and title in person at one of its IL SOS offices. This process includes bringing identification, filing the VSD 190 form, showing ID/insurance/ownership, and paying registration & license plate fees and state taxes.
The registration process is quick and easy if you follow this guide.
Note: Need to renew your vehicle registration? Use our renewal guide.
Illinois Car Registration: Step-by-Step
You will have 20 days to register your vehicle after its purchase, inheritance, or gift.
Every vehicle – driven or not – requires auto insurance.
What you’ll need to collect/bring:
- Proof of vehicle ownership
- Proof of ID or IL License
- Proof of insurance
- Completed Odometer Disclosure Statement for Title Transfer (VSD 333)
- Signed by owner and buyer
- Completed Application for Vehicle Transaction (VSD 190)
- Delivered within 7 days if completed online
- Completed Tax Form RUT-50 Private Party Vehicle Tax Transaction
Electric vehicles are incentivized if you file the Electric Vehicle Registration Fee Reduction.
Registering a New Car
Dealerships will submit documents to the Secretary of State (SOS) office on your behalf.
What’s next?
- Get insurance
- Go to the DMV office
- Provide proofs, submit forms, and pay the registration
It’s essential to get your bill of sale from the dealer as you’ll pay state taxes during registration. You will also want to note the mileage while filing your car’s title & registration. You’ll receive your new title and tag when you’re at the office else have a temporary one mailed if getting a vanity plate.
Registering a Used Car
Registering a used car has a similar process.
You will:
- Have the seller sign the title in your name
- Odometer Disclosure Statement for Title Transfer (VSD 333)
- Bring ID, vehicle title, and proof of insurance
- Tax Form RUT-50 Private Party Vehicle Tax Transaction
- Submit the Application for Vehicle Transaction (VSD 190)
- Pay the tax, registration, and plate fees
You will receive the following:
- A copy of the transaction
- License plate and registration tag
Congratulations! Your vehicle is registered for the road!
Illinois Registration Fees and Taxes
The registration fees vary, but most cars include:
- Registration: $100 – $114
- Title: $95
…and local taxes.
Sales tax depends on your county and jurisdiction.
What is the Benefit Access Program?
The Benefit Access Program, previously known as the Circuit Breaker Program, run by the Department on Aging, provides a way for the Secretary of State’s office to offer discounted license plates to seniors and individuals with disabilities who meet certain qualifications.
How Do I Apply for a Duplicate Registration Card?
To complete and print an Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (VSD 190), you will need to fill out a form. You can do this online through the Electronic Registration and Title (ERT) System. Alternatively, you can visit a Secretary of State facility or contact our office at 800-252-8980 (toll-free in Illinois) or 217-785-3000 (outside Illinois) to request a form. After filling out the form, make sure to submit it along with the appropriate fee to:
Illinois Secretary of State
Vehicle Services Department
501 S. 2nd. St., Rm. 055
Springfield, IL 62756-6666
Conclusion
By registration your vehicle in Illinois you can become a proud owner of a legally registered automobile. Now that you know more about the rules for vehicle registration in the state of Illinois, it’s time to get on the road and take advantage of everything this great state has to offer.
