Alabama Title & Registration Guide
Complete guide to Alabama vehicle titling, registration, fees, taxes, lien laws, and official forms. Maintained by Illinois Title Services.
Alabama Department of Revenue — Motor Vehicle Division
2545 Taylor Road, Montgomery, AL 36117
PO Box 327630 (Registration) • PO Box 327640 (Title), Montgomery, AL 36132
334.242.9000
Fee Calculator
Estimate your Alabama title and sales tax costs. State sales tax is 2.0% plus local tax (varies by location). Title fee is $15.00 for motor vehicles ($20.00 + $5.00 Designated Agent fee for vessels). A $1.50 Designated Agent fee and $1.50 county official commission fee apply. Quick title service is not available in Alabama. Allow 10–15 days for processing (20 days for vessels).
Full purchase price. Credit allowed for trade-in, adaptive equipment, and taxes paid to another state (if reciprocal).
If you already paid sales/use tax to another state on this vehicle, enter that amount here. Alabama will credit it against the tax owed — reducing your total.
Checks Payable To
- •Title & Tax Fees: Department of Revenue
Local sales tax (varies by city/county) is in addition to the 2.0% state rate shown above. Ad valorem (property) tax is also required prior to registration. Contact your county tax assessor for ad valorem amounts.
* Estimate only. Does not include local sales tax, ad valorem (property) tax, registration fees, plate fees, or other county-specific charges. Contact Illinois Title Services for an exact quote.
Title & Proof of Ownership
Motor vehicles, motorcycles, trailers, and vessels must be titled. Vessels 26 feet or longer manufactured before December 31, 2023 may be voluntarily titled. Manufactured homes model year 2000 and newer are titled — one title per unit.
Exempt from Titling
Motor vehicles more than 35 years old; trailers, semitrailers, travel trailers and folding/collapsible camping trailers more than 20 years old; low speed vehicles; mini-trucks; certain motor-driven cycles; electric bicycles less than 750 watts; implements of husbandry; U.S. Government vehicles/vessels; vehicles moved solely by animal power; utility and pole trailers (except gooseneck utility trailers 20 model years or less); special mobile equipment; ATVs/ORVs/UTVs; snowmobiles; vessels less than 18 feet propelled by sail, paddle, oar, or engine less than 75 hp; documented vessels; lifeboats; and barges.
Application for Title
Made through a Designated Agent (Vehicle Licensing Office, financial institution, motor vehicle dealer). All designated agents and title service providers must upload title application packets into MyDMV. Paper applications are not accepted.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Title Fee (motor vehicles) | $15.00 |
| Title Fee (vessels) | $20.00 + $5.00 DA fee |
| Designated Agent Fee | $1.50 |
| County Official Commission Fee | $1.50 |
| Alabama Housing Foundation Fee (manufactured homes) | $5.00 |
| Duplicate Title | $15.00 + $1.50 DA + $1.50 county |
| Corrected Title | Title fee applies (no fee if DOR error) |
Make checks payable to the Department of Revenue. Allow 10–15 days for processing (20 days for vessels). Quick title service is not available. Title application status may be checked online.
Electronic Signatures
An electronic signature may be used in lieu of a handwritten signature on the title application and supporting documents, excluding the physical certificate of title or MCO. Original electronic documents, electronically scanned and transmitted documents, facsimiles, or copies are accepted; however, copies, facsimiles, and scanned documents must include a valid handwritten signature.
Proof of Ownership
New Vehicles
Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin.
Used Vehicles
Certificate of Title.
Non-Title Issuing Jurisdiction
Registration Certificate.
Government Surplus Vehicles
U.S. Government Certificate to Obtain Title to a Vehicle (SF97-1).
Foreign Vehicles
Ownership documents plus at least one U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) form (7501, 368, 3311, 6059B, 7523, 3461 or equivalent), an NHTSA HS-7 Declaration Form (if applicable), an original Bond Release Letter from NHTSA (if applicable), the Manufacturer's Confirmation Letter (if applicable) or EPA Form 3520-1, and any additional requirements. Vehicle must comply with federal and state safety, emissions, and anti-theft standards if less than 25 model years old. Military personnel may present CBP Form 3299 in lieu of CBP Form 7501 and HS-7. English translation required on documents written exclusively in a foreign language.
Note: A bill of sale is also required. Out-of-state titles with bill of sale information are accepted for casual sales only. Surrender of proof of ownership is required. Previous state is notified. Alabama provides data to and inquiries NMVTIS prior to issuing titles.
Special Titles
Distinctive Certificate of Title
Issued for vehicles previously registered in a foreign jurisdiction that does not require lienholders be named on the title. Contains the legend "This vehicle may be subject to an undisclosed lien." If no notice of lien is received within four months, a regular title is issued upon application.
Bonded Title
If the DOR is not satisfied as to ownership or that there are no undisclosed liens, a title surety bond is required. Applicant must use the public Surety Bond Portal in MyDMV. Bond must remain valid for three years. Application must be made within 90 days from the date the surety bond was executed.
Salvage Vehicle
When an insurer or any other person pays or makes monetary settlement when a vehicle is damaged 75% or more of fair retail value. The salvage or total loss must occur in Alabama. Non-Designated Agents complete an Application for Salvage Certificate of Title (MVT 41-1) within 72 hours. No subsequent title will be issued once a current salvage title exists, unless rebuilt.
Rebuilt Vehicle
A vehicle with a salvage certificate that has been restored must be inspected by the DOR Automobile Inspection Section and issued a rebuilt title prior to registration. Vehicle must be restored in Alabama. Only a licensed rebuilder that is a Designated Agent may apply. $75.00 inspection fee plus title fees payable in certified funds.
Junk Vehicle
Any motor vehicle with a junk, parts car, parts only, or nonrebuildable title, or for which a certificate of destruction has been issued is considered junk and is not titled. Automotive dismantlers and scrap metal processors must report the vehicle as junk through MyDMV. Title must be surrendered for cancellation.
Abandoned Vehicle
A motor vehicle left on a public roadway or private property without consent for more than 48 hours that remains unclaimed for 30 days or more. Must be electronically reported through the Unclaimed/Abandoned Vehicle Portal in MyDMV within five days. A 60-day hold will be placed on the title record. Purchaser must title within one year from date of sale.
Title Brands
Brands are shown in the "Legend" section of the Alabama title. Brands from out of state are forwarded onto Alabama titles. Alabama does not accept bonded titles from other states.
Odometer Disclosure
Required upon transfer of ownership. An Odometer Disclosure Statement (MVT 5-5) may be used. Vehicles with a model year of 2010 or older, trailers and other vehicles without odometer devices, and trucks over 16,000 lbs. GVWR are exempt.
VIN/HIN Inspection
Required on vehicles titled or registered for the first time in Alabama. An assigned ID application may be made through MyDMV for kit cars or vehicles whose VINs/MSNs have been damaged or altered. If a vessel does not have a HIN, an application for a state-assigned HIN must be submitted to the ALEA Marine Patrol Division.
Lien Law
The titled owner, next of kin, insurance representative, or primary lienholder (if located outside Alabama) may add, release, extend, or transfer liens on an Alabama title online. A completed title application, current title, and supporting documents must be submitted. Designated Agents must submit the request while logged into their MyDMV account. Lien is perfected as of the time of its creation if application is made within 30 days; otherwise, as of the time of delivery. A security interest in a vessel is perfected as of date of application or date of its creation, whichever is later.
Adding a Second Lien
The same procedures are followed. Once the application has been signed and dated, it is to be delivered to the first lienholder. The first lienholder must immediately deliver the application, supporting documents, and fee to the DOR. No more than two liens may be shown on the title.
Lien Expiration
Liens are considered satisfied after 12 years from the date of the lien unless a Notice of Continuous Security Interest or Lien Perfection is filed prior to the lien release date. If vehicle is older than 12 model years, lien is considered satisfied after four years. Exceptions: manufactured homes, travel trailers, and vehicles more than 12,000 lbs gross weight. Designated Agents may extend the lien through MyDMV. Title fee applies.
Responsible Party for Filing
The seller is required to complete title paperwork. Designated Agents are responsible for filing liens on vehicles. The lienholder is responsible for filing liens on casual (private party) sales.
Assignment of Lien
To transfer a lien to another lienholder with no transfer of ownership, the lien may be filed through MyDMV if the lienholder is a Designated Agent; or in the Manage Liens section of MyDMV if lienholder is not a Designated Agent. Title fee applies.
UCC Filings
Liens on non-titled vehicles are filed through the Alabama Secretary of State, Uniform Commercial Code Division, PO Box 5616, Montgomery, AL 36103-5616, 334.353.0203 or online.
Release of Lien
Liens may be released on the title, through MyDMV, or on a notarized release on company letterhead. Lien releases must be submitted to the DOR within 10 days of satisfaction. Original signature must be on release — no stamp is permitted for validation. A new title is issued to the registered owner.
The secured party of a vessel must deliver a termination statement to the DOR, and on request of the owner, to the owner within 20 days after demand to avoid penalty.
Lien Records on File
Department of Revenue, Motor Vehicle Division in Montgomery.
Electronic Lien & Title (ELT)
Designated Agents may process title applications, upload documents, issue electronic titles, record and release liens electronically. Program allows electronic transfers among dealers eliminating paper titles. Title on which a lien is shown is held electronically or mailed to first lienholder.
Transfer of Title
Transfer is accomplished by assignment of title. Designated agents must forward completed title application packet within 10 days for processing. A copy of a bill of sale is not acceptable in lieu of an open assignment. Vessels must be titled within 20 days after date of transfer or date Alabama became the state of principal use.
Add/Remove a Party
The same procedures, forms, and fees apply as any other transfer.
Damage Disclosure
Damage in any vehicle for which a salvage or rebuilt title has been issued must be disclosed in writing at the time of or prior to the completion of sale, exchange, donation, or other transfer.
Joint Ownership
No more than two owners may be listed. Tenancy in Common ("and" or no conjunction): both must sign. Joint Tenancy with Rights of Survivorship ("or" or "and/or"): one signature required.
Notarization
Not required for title transfer in Alabama.
Deceased Owner
Joint tenancy with rights of survivorship: transfer by assignment of title by the surviving owner. Tenancy in common: surviving owner and legatees/heirs of the deceased must endorse the title.
If the estate does not require probate, the next of kin must submit a Next of Kin Affidavit (MVT 5-6) with a copy of the death certificate and the title assigned by the next of kin.
When the estate is probated, the personal representative transfers ownership and assigns the title. A copy of the probate proceedings or letters of appointment must be submitted.
Transfer on Death (TOD)
Alabama does not have a procedure for adding a TOD beneficiary to a title.
Power of Attorney
An Alabama Secure Power of Attorney (MVT 8-4) is used when the title is physically held by the lienholder or has been lost and odometer disclosure is required. A General and Durable POA, a Limited POA, or a specific Power of Attorney (MVT 5-13) may be used in other instances. Two parties may not be placed on a POA.
Limited Assignment Space
All assignments on the back of the title must be completed in their entirety. Alabama licensed dealers may use a Dealer Reassignment Form (MVT 8-3). Foreign reassignment supplement forms must be initiated by the dealer from the state where the form originated. Individuals must title in their name prior to transfer.
Repossession
The secured party may take possession of the vehicle after default in the terms of a security agreement without judicial process, if it proceeds without a breach of the peace. The lienholder completes a Repossessed Motor Vehicle Affidavit and Disposition of Vehicle Under Lien (MVT 15-1) and may assign the title to the new purchaser if lien is recorded on the face of the title. The lien on the face of the title should not be released. A lien release is not required from a subordinate lienholder when the first lienholder recorded on the title repossesses the vehicle.
Unrecorded Lienholder
An unrecorded lienholder must obtain title in lienholder's name prior to transferring the vehicle. A copy of the security agreement is required in addition to the above documents.
Out-of-State Repossession
For motor vehicles or manufactured homes outside of Alabama, an equivalent out-of-state repossession affidavit must accompany the properly assigned title. A certified copy of the bill of sale from the repossessor to the purchaser is required if the affidavit does not provide a transfer to the purchaser.
Registration
Motor vehicles and trailers used upon the highways and all mechanically propelled vessels, sailboats, boats for hire, and vessels documented as pleasure must be registered. ATVs and recreational off-highway vehicles (UTVs) are registered at owner's option. Implements of husbandry, farm trailers, and boat trailers are exempt. Manufactured homes that are rented or leased or are located on land owned by someone other than the manufactured homeowner are subject to registration.
Application for Registration
Made through a Vehicle Licensing Office in county of residence. Application must be made within 20 days of acquiring the vehicle to avoid penalty; 30 days for manufactured homes. New residents must register within 30 days of vehicle entering the state. Registration must be carried in the vehicle.
Expiration (Monthly Staggered by Last Name)
| Month | Last Name Initial |
|---|---|
| January | A, D |
| February | B |
| March | C, E |
| April | F, G, N |
| May | H, O |
| June | M, I |
| July | P, L |
| August | J, K, R |
| September | Q, S, T |
| October | U–Z |
Commercial vessels expire in October. Commercial and fleet vehicle registrations expire November 30. IRP registrations expire the last day of the designated renewal month. Optional 2-year registration available for double the fees. License plates are replaced every five years.
Late Registration Penalty
A $15.00 penalty, plus interest, is levied if a newly acquired motor vehicle is not registered within 20 days of purchase or acquisition. Penalty also applies for failing to renew during the designated renewal month. There is a 72-hour grace period for new boat registration.
Plates
One plate issued. All plates, except vintage plates, remain with the owner upon sale and may be transferred to another vehicle.
Nonresidents
Motor vehicles owned by a nonresident and not used for hire or commercial purposes may be operated in Alabama for up to 30 consecutive days without registering, if properly registered in home state, with reciprocity.
Planned Non-Operation
Vehicles not used upon the highways do not require registration; however, ad valorem tax is required. A Motor Vehicle Affidavit (MVR-10) must be submitted to be exempt from the late registration penalty upon re-registration.
Military Registration
Nonresident military personnel are exempt from ad valorem tax. Resident military on deployment are exempt from late penalties if renewed within 30 days of deployment end. Active Alabama National Guard, Retired Alabama National Guard, and Active Reserve personnel are eligible for a registration fee exemption for one passenger vehicle. Disabled veterans are entitled to free license plates.
Special Permits
| Permit Type | Validity | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary Tags (Designated Agents / Vehicle Licensing Office) | 20 days | $2.25 |
| IRP Trip Permits / IFTA Fuel Permits | 7 days | $20.00 each ($40.00 combo) |
| Mule Tags (truck-tractors, for-hire carriers) | Within 15 mi of city limits | $300.00 |
| Moving Permits (manufactured homes) | Per move | $10.00 |
Taxes
Sales / Use Tax
2.0%
State Sales Tax Rate
Varies
Local Tax (City/County)
1.5%
Farm Trucks
State Sales/Use Tax
2.0% state rate plus local tax based on the full purchase price. Current local rates are available online. Certain farm trucks qualify for a 1.5% tax rate. Licensed Alabama dealers are required to collect sales tax for the state, city, and county.
Credits & Exemptions
Credit is allowed for trade-in, adaptive equipment, and taxes paid to another state (if reciprocal). Residents who purchase ATVs and snowmobiles outside Alabama must report consumers use tax directly to the State and applicable localities.
Nonresident Drive-Out
Sales of automobiles, motorcycles, trucks, truck trailers, or semitrailers to nonresidents to be registered/titled outside Alabama are exempt if removed within 72 hours for first use outside Alabama, with reciprocity, and a Drive Out Certificate (DOC-1) is completed. Does not apply to mobile homes, living quarter trailers, motorbikes, ATVs, or boats. In no case will Alabama sales tax exceed the amount that would have been due in the state where the vehicle is to be registered.
Penalty & Interest
Penalty and interest are due if tax is paid after the 20th day of the month in which the tax is due. There is a 10% penalty for failure to file timely, minimum $50.00.
Ad Valorem Tax (Property Tax)
Assessment & Payment
Determined by the County Tax Assessor, Judge of Probate, Revenue Commissioner, or License Commissioner and must be paid prior to registration. An Ad Valorem Tax Exemption Affidavit (ADV-MVA1) must be presented at time of registration for vehicles sold from dealer inventory.
Vehicle Classifications
- ●Class I (30%): Motor vehicles owned by public utilities used in business
- ●Class II (20%): Motorcycles, utility trailers, recreational vehicles, leased vehicles, trucks over 8,000 lbs GVW, and all commercial vehicles
- ●Class IV (15%): Private passenger vehicles, station wagons, SUVs, vans, private pickup trucks 8,000 lbs GVW or less for personal use
State millage rate is 6.5 mills; county millages vary per taxing jurisdiction.
Federal Heavy Vehicle Use Tax
Proof of payment is required prior to registration of trucks and truck tractors 55,000 lbs GVW or more. If Federal Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (Form 2290) is filed electronically, the DOR may be able to verify the vehicle tax filing online.
Registration / Plate Fees
Important Notes
- •There is a $1.25 issuance fee in addition to fees below. Some counties charge additional annual issuance fees.
- •Electric vehicles: Additional $203.00 annual license tax and registration fee. Plug-in hybrid: $103.00. Electric low-speed: $50.00.
- •Optional 2-year registration available for double the license taxes, ad valorem tax, and registration fees.
- •Personalized plates: $50.00 annually in addition to registration fees.
- •Plate transfer fee: $1.25. Some counties impose additional local issuance fees.
Passenger Vehicles, Trucks & Trailers
| Vehicle Type | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Passenger vehicle and truck 8,000 lbs and less | $23.00 |
| Motorcycle and moped | $15.00 |
| Vintage (permanent) | $10.00 |
| Truck and truck tractor 8,001 to 10,000 lbs | $35.00 |
| Truck and truck tractor 10,001 to 12,000 lbs | $105.00 |
| Truck and truck tractor 12,001 to 18,000 lbs | $170.00 |
| Truck and truck tractor 18,001 to 26,000 lbs | $235.00 |
| Truck and truck tractor 26,001 to 33,000 lbs | $300.00 |
| Truck and truck tractor 33,001 to 42,000 lbs | $520.00 |
| Truck and truck tractor 42,001 to 55,000 lbs | $585.00 |
| Truck and truck tractor 55,001 to 64,000 lbs | $650.00 |
| Truck and truck tractor 64,001 to 73,280 lbs | $715.00 |
| Truck and truck tractor 73,281 to 80,000 lbs | $815.00 |
| Truck and truck tractor over 80,000 lbs | $890.00 |
| Yard truck | $300.00 |
| Utility trailer and travel trailer | $12.00 |
| Utility trailer rented or leased for compensation | $15.00 |
| Truck, tractor trailer, and semitrailer | $20.00 |
| Permanent trailer | $60.00 |
Recreational Vehicles
| Vehicle Type | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Recreational vehicle up to 8,000 lbs | $23.00 |
| Recreational vehicle 8,001 to 12,000 lbs | $50.00 |
| Recreational vehicle 12,001 to 18,000 lbs | $100.00 |
| Recreational vehicle 18,001 to 26,000 lbs | $175.00 |
| Recreational vehicle 26,001 to 33,000 lbs | $275.00 |
| Recreational vehicle 33,001 to 42,000 lbs | $500.00 |
Vessels, ATVs & UTVs (through ALEA)
Registered through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), 301 South Ripley Street, PO Box 304115, Montgomery, AL 36130, 334.676.6005 or 800.272.7930 marine patrol, 334.676.6002 ATV/UTV, [email protected]. Make checks payable to ALEA.
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Vessels less than 16 feet | $25.00 |
| Vessels 16 to less than 26 feet | $30.00 |
| Vessels 26 to less than 40 feet | $80.00 |
| Vessels 40 feet and over | $105.00 |
| ATVs and UTVs, private use (3 years) | $15.00 + $2.50 issuance |
| ATVs and UTVs, public use (3 years) | $45.00 + $2.50 issuance |
Official Forms & Resources
Alabama processes all title applications electronically through the MyDMV portal. Paper applications are not accepted. All designated agents and title service providers are required to upload title application packets into MyDMV.
Important: Alabama does not accept paper title applications. All applications must be submitted through the MyDMV portal by a Designated Agent (Vehicle Licensing Office, financial institution, or motor vehicle dealer).
Alabama Department of Revenue — Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
2545 Taylor Road
Montgomery, AL 36117
Mailing (Registration):
PO Box 327630, Montgomery, AL 36132
Mailing (Title):
PO Box 327640, Montgomery, AL 36132
Helpful Links
Alabama DOR — Motor Vehicle Division
Main resource for titling and registration
MyDMV Portal
Online title applications, lien management, and status checks
Title Application Status Check
Check the status of your title application online
County Tax Assessor Locator
Find your county tax assessor for ad valorem tax
ALEA Marine Patrol — Vessel Registration
Boat and vessel registration through ALEA
IRP / IFTA — Motor Carrier Services
International Registration Plan for commercial vehicles
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Contact UsGeneral Information
Lease Information
The same information applies to leased vehicles as all other vehicles registered and titled in Alabama. Lessor is shown as owner on title and lessee is shown in the Alabama Operator (lessee) section. Registration is issued in the name of the lessor c/o lessee's name and address. Lessors must be licensed.
Lessors are subject to a state lease/rental tax of 1.5%, plus local rental tax, levied on the gross receipts from the leasing/rental of vehicles without a driver. Lease tax on short term leases is due on the total rental contract; long term leases are based on the customer's garage location.
Financial Responsibility Laws
| Coverage | Minimum |
|---|---|
| Bodily Injury / Person | $25,000 |
| Bodily Injury / Accident | $50,000 |
| Property Damage | $25,000 |
Liability insurance must be maintained on registered vehicles to avoid fines, fees, and registration suspension. Proof of insurance is required at time of registration and must be carried in the vehicle.
Emission Inspection
Not required in Alabama.
Motor Vehicle Safety Inspection
Not required by the state; however, cities have authority to maintain inspection stations and provide local inspections.
Records
Filed by name, title number, VIN, and license number. Title documents maintained for as long as the vehicle is not exempt from titling. Registration records kept 10 years. Records may be obtained online. Fee $5.00 per year for registration records, $5.00 for current title record, or $15.00 for complete title history. $20.00 for vessels.
Enforcement
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, Highway Patrol Division, PO Box 1511, 301 South Ripley Street, Montgomery, AL 36102, 334.676.6003, 334.676.6004 for Motor Carrier Safety Unit, [email protected].
Alabama Department of Revenue — Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
2545 Taylor Road
Montgomery, AL 36117
Phone:
334.242.9000Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Fees, requirements, and procedures may change. Always verify current information with the Alabama Department of Revenue, Motor Vehicle Division — or contact Illinois Title Services for professional assistance.