Do I Have To Register My Car For Years I Didn't Drive It

Driving Without Valid Vehicle Registration

When taking to the road, there are sure things all drivers must have with them in order to comply with the law. Failure to follow these rules can result in both traffic citations and authoritative penalties. These items, which police typically ask for when they pull over a motorist, are:

Valid driver's license,
Proof of liability insurance, and
Valid vehicle registration.

Failure to keep physical copies of these documents in your car at all times tin can pb to a traffic commendation and hefty fines. This is particularly truthful if you are driving without valid vehicle registration, although in some jurisdictions yous may receive a "fix-it" ticket (perhaps for a registration that has just recently expired). Below you lot'll notice some basic information about driving without a valid vehicle registration and where to go for more than information.

Driving Without Registration vs. Driving Without Proof of Registration

In every state, traffic laws make it unlawful to operate a motor vehicle when:

The vehicle has never been registered with the land department of motor vehicles (or motor vehicles bureau) in the state where information technology is primarily used, or
The vehicle'south in one case-valid registration has expired (i.eastward. required fees and filings were not submitted to the state motor vehicle department within the registration period).

Traffic laws in most states differentiate between operating a vehicle that isn't registered, and operating a vehicle without proof that the vehicle is registered (i.e. when a driver of a properly registered vehicle fails to carry a required registration certificate, or fails to brandish current registration stickers).

In many states, penalties for driving a vehicle whose registration has expired volition increase the longer the registration has lapsed. For instance, if the vehicle'due south registration expired less than half-dozen months ago, the infraction might be considered a non-moving violation. But if the vehicle's registration expired more six months ago, the criminal offence may be considered a moving violation, which shows up as "points" on a driving record , and may lead to increased automobile insurance rates.

Used Cars and Vehicle Registration

Many people wonder if they buy a used car, whether they can they bulldoze it without registration. The answer is it depends on the state. In Michigan, for instance, you can drive abode a newly purchased used vehicle just only if you lot drive the vehicle directly to the showtime place of storage (usually your dwelling house) within xv days of the auction. You must have the properly assigned title with you and should bank check with your insurance company to exist sure you're covered. Once more, the number of days you accept to register a machine varies so you should check with your country'southward DMV.

In most states, certain types of vehicles need not be registered -- including "off-highway" vehicles, stored vehicles, or vehicles for which a "non-operating" has been filed with the state department of motor vehicles.

Caught Driving Without Valid Registration? Get Legal Assistance Today

If y'all're looking to fight a commendation for the registration of your vehicle, you'll want a lawyer on your side who knows the ins and outs of traffic court. In most cases you lot'll only pay a fine, obtain the necessary paperwork, and be on your manner. But sometimes, particularly when you face the prospect of losing your license, it'due south worth reviewing your legal options. Speak to an experienced traffic ticket attorney today to find out what your options are for contesting a violation.