Car Registration Requirements for New Kentucky Residents
New residents bringing a motor vehicle into Kentucky must title and register the vehicle within the set time limits. Kentucky law requires owners to obtain Kentucky insurance from a licensed agent before titling or registering. All motor vehicles operated upon Kentucky roadways must be titled and registered with the county clerk in the owner's county of residence.
Timeline for New Kentucky Residents
A person who brings a motor vehicle into Kentucky shall apply for title and registration within fifteen days in the county where the person resides.
Establishing Kentucky Residency
Kentucky statute defines "resident" as any person who has established Kentucky as his or her state of domicile. Proof of residency includes a deed, property tax bill, utility agreement, utility bill, or rental housing agreement. Possession of a valid Kentucky operator's license constitutes prima facie evidence of residency.
Required Documentation for Car Registration in Kentucky
Submit the following documents to the county clerk where the vehicle owner resides:
- Out-of-state certificate of title signed over to the new owner (notarized signatures required). If the issuing state provides only a registration or bill of sale, submit those documents in place of the title. (Title requirement)
- Completed Application for Kentucky Certificate of Title or Registration (Form TC 96-182) with all owner signatures.
- Valid Kentucky photo identification card, Kentucky operator's license, or Social Security card.
- Proof of Kentucky insurance with an issue date within forty-five days, showing coverage effective at the time of registration.
- Affidavit documenting identity if the name on the title differs from the name on identification. A marriage license or a divorce decree serves this purpose.
- Sheriff's inspection certification for out-of-state vehicles.
Insurance Requirements
Kentucky law mandates minimum liability coverage for all motor vehicles:
- $25,000 for injury or damages for one person
- $50,000 for injury or damages for all persons involved in an accident
- $25,000 for property damages
- Alternatively, a $60,000 single-limit policy
Application Submission Methods
Applications must be submitted in person at the county clerk's office where the vehicle owner resides. Kentucky does not offer online or mail processing for initial out-of-state title transfers. First-time registrations require in-person visits to present original documentation.
Kentucky Vehicle Inspection Requirements
Vehicles brought into Kentucky from another state require a sheriff's inspection. The inspection verifies the Vehicle Identification Number and compares mileage to the title record. Sheriff's offices charge an inspection fee; typical fees are $15.00 payable by cash or check to the county sheriff.
Registration Fees and Costs in Kentucky
Title and Registration Fees
- Title fee: $9.00 ($6.00 state and $3.00 clerk fee)
- Standard registration fee: $21.00 for a standard-issue Kentucky plate
- Motorcycle registration: $9.00 annually
- Motor vehicle registration: $11.50 base annual fee for passenger vehicles and pickup trucks
- Lien filing fee if applicable (contact county clerk for current amount)
Motor Vehicle Usage Tax
Kentucky levies a six percent usage tax on the retail price of every motor vehicle registered for the first time in Kentucky. Kentucky statute sets the rate at six percent upon retail price. For new vehicles, tax applies to affidavit sales price or manufacturer's suggested retail price; for used vehicles, tax applies to affidavit sales price or NADA retail book value. The county clerk collects usage tax at the time of registration.
Contact Information
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing
200 Mero Street
Frankfort, KENTUCKY 40622
Phone: (502) 564-1257
Official Website: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet
Kentucky Department of Insurance
500 Mero Street, 2SE-1
Frankfort, KENTUCKY 40601
Phone: (502) 564-3630
Toll-Free: 1-800-595-6053
Official Website: Kentucky Insurance
