How to Register a Car or Truck in Mississippi

Want to get your car on the road in Mississippi? It’s an easy process.

Getting your car or truck registered in Mississippi requires you file and submit a few different forms and fees depending on the type of vehicle. Registration is a requirement whether you’ve purchased a vehicle new or used, through a private or dealer sale. The registration process shouldn’t take longer than a few, total hours if you read this guide and prepare ahead of time.

Your main tasks include satisfying:

  • Proof of identification
  • Registration/Title application
  • Proof of ownership
  • Paying the taxes and fees

…plus, any applicable vehicle testing and disclosures.

You will register and tag your vehicle at a Mississippi Department of Revenue office. Failing to register a vehicle on-time can result in late fees unless the vehicle is proven non-operational. The steps for registration vary depending on if the vehicle was purchased through a private party or dealership.

We’ve outlined the Mississippi car registration process, keeping it as easy-as-possible.

Mississippi Vehicle Registration: Step-by-Step

You must register a vehicle within 7 days if it was bought through a private sale. Out-of-state drivers will have up to 30 days to register their vehicle once they’ve established residency. You may purchase a temporary tag (good for 7 days) until you’re ready to complete the registration process.

The title and registration are done on-location at a county tax collector’s office.

Proof of insurance is not a requirement when registering your vehicle. Yet, auto insurance is mandatory once you’re on the road – so consider getting it if you plan on driving anytime soon!

Here is how you can title and register a car in Mississippi:

  1. Go to your nearest MS tax office
  2. Provide the vehicle information:
    1. Vehicle title
    2. VIN
    3. Odometer disclosure (if purchased in another state)
  3. File any necessary vehicle registration forms (see here)
  4. Pay your registration fees
    1. Passenger vehicles: $14
    2. MS Road and Bridge Privilege Tax:
      1. Passenger vehicles: $15
      2. Trucks: $7.20
  • Motorcycles: $8

Your plates are then registered to yourself and the vehicle – meaning you cannot transfer standard plates between cars. You may opt for a specialty plate during registration. You may also need to pay ad valorem, sales, and use taxes during the registration – the county clerk will notify you of these fees.

Set a Reminder for Registration Renewal

You’ll want to mark your calendar else wait to receive a renewal notice when it comes time. You can check the exact date listed on the registration – so keep this in mind and mark your calendar!

See our MS registration renewal guide for more information when you’re ready.