Michigan Title & Registration Guide
Complete guide to Michigan vehicle titling, registration, fees, taxes, lien laws, and official forms. Maintained by Illinois Title Services.
Michigan Department of State
7064 Crowner Drive, 3rd Floor, Lansing, MI 48918
888.767.6424
Title & Proof of Ownership
Motor vehicles, ORVs, trailer coaches, pickup campers, trailers with an empty weight of 2,500 lbs. and over, watercraft 20 feet or longer, and all watercraft with a permanently affixed motor must be titled. Mopeds, snowmobiles, USCG-documented watercraft, lifeboats, implements of husbandry, special mobile equipment, and vehicles owned by the U.S. government are exempt.
Manufactured Homes
Manufactured homes are titled, unless affixed to real property. One title is issued regardless of the number of units; however, add-a-room units are titled separately. Manufactured homes are titled through the Department of State for the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Building Division. Private sales require an Application for Certificate of Manufactured Home Ownership (S-110L). Fee $90.00.
Application for Title
Application for Michigan Vehicle Title (TR-11L) or Application for Michigan Watercraft Title (WR-11L) is processed at SOS Branch Offices. Michigan dealers are required to submit Application for Michigan Title and Registration Statement of Vehicle Sale (RD-108) through designated SOS Branch Offices.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Title Fee (vehicles) | $15.00 |
| Title Fee (watercraft) | $5.00 |
| Title Fee (ORVs) | $11.00 |
| Lien Recording Fee (add $1.00 if adding a lien) | $1.00 |
| Electronic Filing Fee (dealer) | $24.00 |
| Instant Title Service (additional) | +$5.00 |
| Duplicate / Correction Title | $15.00 |
| Manufactured Home Title | $90.00 |
Make checks payable to State of Michigan. Allow 60 days to receive title. Instant title service is available at SOS Branch Offices for an additional $5.00 fee. Lien recording fee does not apply to trailers, watercraft, or ORVs. A duplicate title will not be issued for electronic titles.
Electronic Signatures
A title application, appointment of agent form, or lien termination statement may be electronically signed.
Proof of Ownership
New Vehicles
Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin required unless the manufacturer participates in Michigan's paperless MCO program. If the MCO is electronic, a separate odometer disclosure statement is required.
Used Vehicles
Certificate of Title.
Non-Title Issuing Jurisdiction
Certificate of Registration with a bill of sale, as required by issuing state. A Bill of Sale (TR-207) may be used for non-titled trailers, non-titled watercraft, and snowmobiles.
Government Surplus Vehicles
U.S. Government Certificate to Obtain Title to a Vehicle (SF97-1). If Certificate says "Not for On-Road Use", "Off-Road Use Only", or similar statement, the vehicle may not be registered for on-road use.
Imported Vehicles
Foreign ownership documents, a stamped Entry Summary (CBP 7501), a Federal Motor Vehicle Safety, Bumper and Theft Prevention Standards Declaration (NHTSA HS-7), and a NHTSA bond release letter are required. A Declaration for Free Entry of Unaccompanied Articles (CBP 3299) may be accepted in lieu of the CBP 7501. U.S. military personnel returning from overseas may submit a CBP Declaration for Personal Property Shipments (DD 1252) or a U.S. Customs Accompanied Baggage Declaration (DD 1854) in lieu of the CBP 7501. For vehicles that will be titled but not registered, part 1 of a Vehicle Number and Equipment Inspection (TR-54) is required.
Surrender of Proof of Ownership: Required. A list of cancelled VINs is sent to each issuing state. Michigan provides data and verifies title record through NMVTIS prior to issuing titles.
Odometer Statement
Required upon transfer of vehicle. Vehicles with a model year of 2010 or older, trailers, vehicles without odometer devices, and trucks over 16,000 lbs. GVWR are exempt. If transfer occurs without a title or a title with no odometer space, the selling agency may provide an odometer statement on a bill of sale, a Garage Keeper's Lien Bill of Sale (TR-42), a Notice of Abandoned Vehicle (TR-52L), or a court bill of sale. An Odometer Mileage Statement (BDVR-108) must be completed when there is no selling agency.
VIN Inspection
Required on grey market vehicles or if there is a VIN error or discrepancy. If the manufacturer's VIN plate is missing, a Certification (TR-34) must be completed stating why a replacement VIN is needed. A replacement VIN sticker is affixed to the vehicle by the Office of Investigative Services.
Special Titles
Bonded Title
When there is insufficient evidence of ownership for a vehicle, the SOS may accept a surety bond equal to twice the value of the vehicle. A Uniform Surety Bond (TR-121) must be filed with application for title. If a Michigan-titled vehicle is valued at $2,500 or less and is 10 years old or older, in lieu of bond, an Ownership Certification (TR-205) and Odometer Mileage Statement (BDVR-108) may be submitted with a Vehicle Number and On-Road Equipment Inspection (TR-54) completed by law enforcement.
Stolen Vehicle
The title of a stolen vehicle cannot be transferred to anyone other than the owner's insurance company until the SOS is notified of the vehicle's recovery. When an insurer pays a claim for a stolen vehicle, the owner assigns the title to the insurer. If a stolen indicator appears on the vehicle record, an application for title cannot be processed until the indicator is removed by the police agency that posted the indicator.
Salvage / Scrap Vehicle
Vehicles with an estimated cost of repair of 75% to less than 91% of the pre-damaged value must be titled with a salvage title; if 91% or more, must be titled with a scrap title. Vehicles with flood damage only may be titled as a salvage vehicle. If the insurer acquires ownership of a late model vehicle through payment of a claim, the insurer must surrender the properly assigned title with an Application for Salvage/Scrap Title (TR-12) and a fee of $15.00 for a salvage title or $20.00 for a scrap title. Salvage titles are orange; scrap titles are red.
Rebuilt Vehicle
Vehicle must be rebuilt, inspected, and recertified prior to titling and registering for road use. An Application for Salvage Vehicle Inspection (TR-13A) must be presented to a certified salvage inspector with the salvage title and receipts for all major component parts used to rebuild the vehicle. A fee of up to $100.00 may be charged for the inspection. The completed TR-13A and a Salvage Recertification (TR-13B) must accompany a title application. Rebuilt titles are orange and contain the legend "Rebuilt Salvage".
Abandoned Vehicle
The last titled owner is responsible for the abandoned vehicle unless a record of sale is provided. When an abandoned vehicle is taken into custody, the SOS notifies the vehicle owner and any secured party of the vehicle's status and location. If the owner or lienholder does not redeem the vehicle within 20 days of notice, the vehicle may be sold at public auction. To title the vehicle, the purchaser submits the assigned TR-52L with the title fee. There is an online Abandoned Vehicle Search.
Duplicate or Correction Title
An Application for Michigan Vehicle Title (TR-11L) must be submitted with $15.00 fee. Duplicate may be obtained online. If adding/removing a lien from a title, an additional $1.00 fee is due, except on trailers, watercraft, and ORVs. Duplicate contains the legend "This is a duplicate certificate and may be subject to the rights of a person under the original certificate". Allow 14 days to receive duplicate. Instant title service is available for an additional $5.00 fee. A duplicate title will not be issued for electronic titles. An Out-of-State Resident Duplicate Title Application (ISS-Title) may be used for out-of-state residents.
Title Only
Issued.
Title Brands
Brands are printed in the "BRAND/LEGEND" section of the Michigan title. Flood, rebuilt, salvage, scrap, or comparable brands from out of state are forwarded onto Michigan titles. Titles with police, taxi, municipal, flood, rebuilt, and salvage are orange; scrap titles are red. There is an online brand search.
Lien Law
Dealers use an Application for Michigan Title & Registration – Statement of Vehicle Sale (RD-108) to record liens. Liens may also be entered on the Application for Michigan Vehicle Title (TR-11L). Applications are submitted to any SOS Branch Office with the title or MCO, the title fee, and $1.00 lien fee. Name and address of secured party and date of lien are shown on new title. Second lien is recorded on the title in the same manner as the first lien. Liens are perfected as of the date the application is processed.
Lien Fee Note
Lien fee does not apply to trailers, watercraft, or ORVs. If the secured interest listed on the RD-108 is not approved, the dealer may assume the loan and finance the vehicle. To have a corrected title issued showing the dealer as the new lienholder, a Notice of Rejection of Vehicle Financing (TR-209) and a Notice of Assignment of Secured Interest in a Vehicle (TR-210) must be submitted with a copy of the original RD-108.
Lien Expiration
Liens are valid until a release is submitted.
Assignment of Lien
A lienholder may assign their interest without affecting the interest of the owner or validity of the security interest, but any person without notice of the assignment is protected in dealing with the lienholder as the holder thereof. The lienholder shown on the title must provide a discharge of lien. Vehicle owner must apply for a correction title by submitting the current title and title fee.
Responsible Party for Filing
The dealer is responsible for filing a lien on a vehicle purchased from a Michigan dealer. The owner is responsible for filing a lien on a vehicle purchased from an out-of-state dealer or individual; however, most out-of-state dealers elect to record the lienholder on the assigned MCO or title.
Friend of the Court Liens
Friend of the Court liens may be recorded on vehicle, watercraft, ORV, and mobile home titles as a secured party for unpaid child support payments.
Vehicle Garage Keeper's Lien (GKL)
If the vehicle owner fails to pay the charges due and the vehicle is in the possession of the garage keeper, the garage keeper may file for a garage keeper's lien. The garage keeper may submit a GKL application within 105 days after providing the last labor, material, storage, or supplies. The Garage Keeper's Lien Application (BDVR-35) must be submitted with a copy of the itemized bill to the Internal Services Section. There is a $10.00 application fee.
A Certificate of Foreclosure of Garage Keeper's Lien and Bill of Sale (TR-42) will be sent to the garage keeper. Within 30 days, the owner and any lienholder must be notified of the intent to sell. If the owner fails to pay within the time period, the garage keeper may sell the vehicle at public auction. When properly filed, a GKL has authority over all other liens.
Vessel Garage Keeper's Lien (GKL)
Facility must be in possession of the boat. Once the bill is overdue 180 days or more, a notice of default must be sent by certified mail to the owner and the Michigan Department of State, Internal Services Section. The Internal Services Section will mail a Statement of Compliance (BDVR-157) to the facility, which serves as a bill of sale when watercraft is sold at public auction. After at least 30 days from the initial notice, an advertisement for sale must be published once a week for two consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation.
UCC Filings
Liens on non-titled vehicles are perfected through the Michigan Department of State, UCC Section, PO Box 30197, Lansing, MI 48909, 517.335.6167, [email protected]. Online filing is available.
Release of Lien
Lien may be released on the face of the title or with a separate lien termination statement. Lienholder must execute a release of their security interest not more than 14 days after satisfaction of lien and submit to the SOS, or, to the owner if the title is in possession of the owner. There is a $1.00 fee to remove a vehicle lien unless there is a change in ownership. Electronic liens must be released electronically and may not be released at a SOS Branch Office. Once all liens have been released, a paper title is issued to the owner.
New and used vehicle dealers are not required to submit lien termination statements with their title applications; however, dealers are responsible for ensuring a previous lien is satisfied prior to resale.
Lien Records on File
Department of State, Customer Records Division.
Electronic Lien & Title (ELT) Program
All secured parties normally engaged in the business/practice of financing vehicles are required to participate in the ELT Program. Financial institutions may participate through an approved service provider or Michigan Department of State e-Services. Lienholder ID number must be entered on the title application. A paper title may be issued under limited circumstances. Owners may verify their electronic titles online through the "Search for Liens and Brands" link. Title on which a lien is shown is held electronically or mailed to the registered owner unless the owner completes a Special Mailing of Certificate of Title (TR-114) authorizing the title to be mailed to the lienholder or another entity.
Transfer of Title
Transfer is accomplished by assignment of title. Dealers must apply for title within 21 days after delivering the vehicle to the purchaser/lessee and secure registration plates and registration to avoid a $50.00 penalty and suspension/revocation of dealer license. Purchaser must apply for new title within 21 days to avoid a $50.00 late fee. New residents must immediately title and register their vehicles in Michigan. When a secured party is shown on a title, ownership cannot transfer unless lien is terminated by the lienholder.
Late Fee Note
Late fee is $100.00 for vehicles sold by a used or secondhand vehicle dealer and financed through a registered inventory lender. The transferee of a moped or ORV must apply for transfer of registration within 15 days of acquisition.
Add/Remove an Owner
Same procedures as any other transfer of ownership. A termination statement or letter from the lienholder authorizing the addition or removal of an owner is required. The plate transfer fee is due when adding an owner. When removing an owner, the plate registration is corrected at no fee.
Damage Disclosure
Dealers must provide a Damage Disclosure Statement in the Remarks section of the RD-108. Before selling a late model salvage vehicle that has been repaired, inspected, and recertified, dealers must provide a written disclosure to the buyer. Written disclosure of damage is required when a new vehicle dealer is selling a vehicle that has been damaged and repaired and the cost of the repairs exceeds 5.0% of the MSRP or $750.00 in surface-coating repairs. Michigan has an online brand search.
Joint Ownership
All owners whose names are shown on the face of the title must sign the title to transfer ownership.
Notarization
Not required for title transfer in Michigan.
Transfer Upon Death
If the vehicle is jointly titled with "Full Rights to Survivor", surviving owner submits the title and a copy of the death certificate to transfer vehicle. If the title does not read "Full Rights to Survivor" or the title is only in one name, transfer is accomplished by one of the following:
- If the estate is probated, the personal representative assigns the title and provides a copy of the letter of authority from the probate court; or
- If the total value of all vehicles owned by the deceased does not exceed $100,000 and the estate is not being probated, the surviving spouse or the next closest kin may title the vehicle or assign the title using a Certification from the Heir to a Vehicle (TR-29) and proof of death.
Transfer on Death (TOD)
There is no procedure for adding a beneficiary to a title in Michigan.
Power of Attorney
An Appointment of Agent (TR-128) or any form containing the same information, including a general or durable power of attorney, may be used. Owner must provide a copy of their valid driver license or ID card with the POA. An agent may not act as both the buyer and seller of the vehicle. Dealers are prohibited from signing an odometer disclosure statement on behalf of a purchaser.
Limited Assignment Space
If there are no remaining assignment spaces on a title, a licensed Michigan dealer must obtain a resale title before any further reassignment. Watercraft dealers may use a Reassignment by a Watercraft Dealer (WR-15) when all reassignments have been used. Individuals must obtain a title in their name prior to transfer.
Owner Liability
An owner is not liable for any damages or violations resulting from the use of the vehicle by another if the owner accompanies the purchaser of the vehicle to an SOS Branch Office or maintains a record of sale for not less than 18 months, i.e. a copy of the assigned title.
Repossession
Upon default in the terms of a security agreement, the secured party may take possession of the vehicle without judicial process; however, repossessors must first give written notice to the owner of the intent to repossess. Lienholder must apply for a resale repossession title before transferring vehicle to a new owner. The title must be submitted with a title application, Certification of Repossession (TR-10), and title fee.
Out-of-State Repossession
A repossession title is not issued to an out-of-state lienholder unless the vehicle is titled in Michigan. If vehicle is titled out of state with a Michigan lienholder, the repossessor must follow the other state's repossession procedures.
Registration
Motor vehicles, watercraft, snowmobiles, trailers, trailer coaches, and ORVs must be registered. Implements of husbandry, special mobile equipment, pickup campers, vehicles owned by the U.S. government, non-motorized watercraft 16 feet or less not used for rental or commercial purposes, and non-motorized canoes or kayaks not used for rental or commercial purposes are exempt.
Application for Registration
Submitted to any SOS Branch Office or by mail to the Internal Services Section. Applicant need not apply in county of residence. A paper or electronic copy of the registration must be carried in the vehicle. New residents must immediately register vehicles in Michigan. ORV licenses and trail permits are issued by the Department of Natural Resources.
IRP
Administered through Michigan Department of State, IRP Unit, 7064 Crowner Drive, Dimondale, MI 48821, PO Box 30029, Lansing, MI 48909-7529, 517.335.6119, [email protected]. IRP registration plates and cab cards are only issued through the Lansing IRP office. IRP transactions may be processed online or by mail.
Nonresidents
A nonresident may operate a properly registered out-of-state vehicle in Michigan for 90 days without obtaining Michigan registration. Owners of watercraft registered in another state may use Michigan waterways for up to 60 days without obtaining Michigan registration. Nonresident snowmobiles must display valid registration and an annual Snowmobile Trail Permit sticker if used on public lands.
Planned Non-Operation
Vehicles not operated on public roads do not require registration. Some cities have ordinances that require registration of vehicles not stored in a garage. If plate has expired, a $10.00 late fee is assessed upon renewal unless proof of storage insurance for the vehicle is submitted.
Registration Only
If title is held by an out-of-state lienholder or lessor, a Michigan memo registration may be issued. The Michigan record will show "Memo Registration." No title is issued; the out-of-state title remains the ownership document.
Expiration
Late Renewal Fee
A $10.00 late fee is charged if a motor vehicle registration is renewed after expiration date; $100.00 for fleet vehicles.
Special Permits
| Permit Type | Validity | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 30-Day Temporary Registration (dealer) | 30 days | Included |
| 60-Day In-Transit Registration | 60 days | $10.00 |
| 15-Day In-Transit Permit (watercraft) | 15 days | $10.00 |
| 30/60-Day Temporary Registration Permit | 30 or 60 days | Varies |
| 72-Hour Reciprocity Permit | 72 hours | $20.00 |
Plates
One plate issued. Two plates may be purchased for personalized plates. Plate remains with owner upon sale of vehicle or may be transferred with the vehicle to an immediate family member.
Military Registration
Vehicles brought into Michigan by military personnel are taxable unless sales tax of any amount was paid in the state of purchase. License plate renewal late fees are waived for active-duty military personnel stationed out of state. Ex-POWs, service-connected total or permanent total disabled veterans, and Congressional Medal of Honor recipients may be issued a special plate exempt from registration and service fees.
Taxes
Sales / Use Tax
6.0%
State Sales/Use Tax
$10,000
Max Trade-In Credit (2024)
+$1,000/yr
Annual Credit Increase
Sales/Use Tax
6.0% on the greater of the purchase price or retail value of the vehicle. Licensed dealers must have a Michigan Sales Tax License and collect sales tax on vehicles/watercraft at time of sale. As of January 1, 2024, trade-in credit is the lesser of $10,000 or the agreed-upon value of the vehicle. Each January 1 thereafter, the maximum amount increases by $1,000 per year. Beginning January 1, 2029, the full value of a traded-in motor vehicle is eligible for the deduction. Credit is allowed for taxes paid to another state.
Trade-In Credit Limitations
Any vehicle meeting the definition of a motor vehicle or recreational vehicle is eligible for trade-in sales tax credit. Utility trailers, snowmobiles, ORVs, mobile homes, and aircraft are not eligible for trade-in tax credit. Watercraft trade-in may only be applied to the purchase of another titled watercraft. Only one vehicle may be used toward the sales tax trade-in credit. There is no limit on the trade-in value of a recreational vehicle towards the purchase of another recreational vehicle or titled watercraft towards the purchase of another titled watercraft.
Exemptions
- ●New residents are exempt from sales/use tax on vehicles titled and registered in another jurisdiction or purchased more than 90 days before becoming a Michigan resident
- ●Dealer rebates and optional manufacturer extended warranties are tax exempt; manufacturer rebates are taxable
- ●Vehicles held for resale, unregistered farm trucks and trailers used exclusively on a farm, and interstate motor carriers purchasing qualified trucks or trailers are exempt from sales tax
- ●An exemption from use tax is allowed when the new owner is an immediate family member, legal ward, or legally-appointed guardian
Nonresident Sales
Vehicles to be titled and registered in another state or country are exempt sales tax if vehicle is delivered to an address outside Michigan. If nonresident takes delivery in Michigan, a 60-Day In-Transit Registration must be issued. Sales to nonresidents are exempt from Michigan sales tax if the vehicle is titled and registered in an exempt state or non-reciprocal state. Reciprocal states: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, Ohio, Wisconsin.
Remote Sellers
Remote sellers with sales exceeding $100,000, or more than 200 transactions, to purchasers in Michigan in the previous calendar year must register and remit sales/use tax to the Michigan Department of Treasury.
Property Tax
Imposed on manufactured homes permanently affixed to real property.
Heavy Vehicle Use Tax
Proof of payment is required when registering commercial vehicles with an elected GVW of 55,000 lbs. or more.
Registration / Plate Fees
Important Notes
- •There is an online Registration Fee Calculator, Renewal Fee Calculator, and Plate Transfer Fee Calculator on the Michigan SOS website.
- •Plates must be replaced every 10 years for an additional fee of $5.00.
- •Add $155.00 for electric vehicles or $57.00 for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles; if over 8,000 lbs. empty weight, fee is $255.00 for electric vehicles or $127.00 for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.
- •Vehicles owned by an individual may be registered for two years for twice the fees.
- •Computation rates are rounded to the nearest whole dollar.
- •Personalized Plates: $30.00 for original, $15.00 for renewal, in addition to registration fees. Plates may be transferred.
Ad Valorem Fees (1984 or Newer Model Year Vehicles)
Fees are for the first registration based on the vehicle's list price (MSRP). For the second registration, 90% of the fee is due. For the third registration, 90% of the second registration is due. For the fourth and subsequent registrations, 90% of the third registration is due.
| List Price (MSRP) | Fee |
|---|---|
| Up to $6,000 | $44.00 |
| $6,001–$7,000 | $48.00 |
| $7,001–$8,000 | $54.00 |
| $8,001–$9,000 | $60.00 |
| $9,001–$10,000 | $66.00 |
| $10,001–$11,000 | $72.00 |
| $11,001–$12,000 | $78.00 |
| $12,001–$13,000 | $84.00 |
| $13,001–$14,000 | $90.00 |
| $14,001–$15,000 | $96.00 |
| $15,001–$16,000 | $102.00 |
| $16,001–$17,000 | $108.00 |
| $17,001–$18,000 | $114.00 |
| $18,001–$19,000 | $120.00 |
| $19,001–$20,000 | $126.00 |
| $20,001–$21,000 | $132.00 |
| $21,001–$22,000 | $138.00 |
| $22,001–$23,000 | $144.00 |
| $23,001–$24,000 | $150.00 |
| $24,001–$25,000 | $156.00 |
| $25,001–$26,000 | $162.00 |
| $26,001–$27,000 | $168.00 |
| $27,001–$28,000 | $174.00 |
| $28,001–$29,000 | $180.00 |
| $29,001–$30,000* | $186.00 |
* Over $30,000, add $6.00 for each increase up to $1,000.
Other Standard Fees
| Vehicle Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Motorcycles | $25.00 |
| Mopeds (3 years) | $15.00 |
| Wreckers | $200.00 |
| Hearses or ambulances | $1.17 per 100 lbs + $8.00 |
| Farm trucks or truck tractors | $0.74 per 100 lbs + $8.00 |
| Historic (10 years) | $30.00 |
| Public transportation vehicles | $25.00 |
Trucks 8,000 lbs or Less & Recreational Tow Vehicles
Based on empty weight. Fee is per 100 lbs. Minimum fee $38.00.
| Weight Range | Rate per 100 lbs |
|---|---|
| Up to 2,500 lbs | $1.40 + $8.00 |
| 2,501–4,000 lbs | $1.76 + $8.00 |
| 4,001–6,000 lbs | $2.20 + $8.00 |
| 6,001–8,000 lbs | $2.72 + $8.00 |
| 8,001–10,000 lbs | $3.25 + $8.00 |
| 10,001–15,000 lbs | $3.77 + $8.00 |
| 15,001 lbs and over | $4.39 + $8.00 |
Heavy Trucks & Truck Tractors (by Elected Gross Weight)
| Elected Gross Weight | Fee |
|---|---|
| 24,000 lbs | $590.00 |
| 28,000 lbs | $670.00 |
| 32,000 lbs | $779.00 |
| 36,000 lbs | $893.00 |
| 42,000 lbs | $1,049.00 |
| 48,000 lbs | $1,206.00 |
| 54,000 lbs | $1,362.00 |
| 60,000 lbs | $1,522.00 |
| 66,000 lbs | $1,678.00 |
| 72,000 lbs | $1,835.00 |
| 80,000 lbs | $1,992.00 |
| 90,000 lbs | $2,152.00 |
| 100,000 lbs | $2,403.00 |
| 115,000 lbs | $2,668.00 |
| 130,000 lbs | $2,938.00 |
| 145,000 lbs | $3,204.00 |
| 160,000 lbs | $3,473.00 |
| Over 160,000 lbs | $3,741.00 |
Trailers, Semitrailers & Trailer Coaches
Permanent (non-expiring), nontransferable. Based on empty weight.
| Weight | Fee |
|---|---|
| Up to 2,499 lbs | $75.00 |
| 2,500–9,999 lbs | $200.00 |
| 10,000 lbs and over | $300.00 |
Snowmobiles & ORVs
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Snowmobile Registration (3 years) | $30.00 |
| Historic snowmobile (one-time, non-expiring) | $50.00 |
| Annual Snowmobile Trail Permit | $52.00 |
| ORV (add $10.00 ORV Trail Permit for state trails) | $26.25 |
Watercraft
Original fee and 3-year renewals:
| Vessel Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Non-motorized sailboats | $9.00 |
| Non-motorized canoes and kayaks used commercially | $5.00 |
| Motorized canoes | $14.00 |
| Motorboats less than 12 ft. | $14.00 |
| Motorboats 12 ft. to less than 16 ft. | $17.00 |
| Motorboats 16 ft. to less than 21 ft. | $42.00 |
| Motorboats 21 ft. to less than 28 ft. | $115.00 |
| Motorboats 28 ft. to less than 35 ft. | $168.00 |
| Motorboats 35 ft. to less than 42 ft. | $244.00 |
| Motorboats 42 ft. to less than 50 ft. | $280.00 |
| Motorboats 50 ft. and over | $448.00 |
| Pontoon boats | $23.00 |
| Commercial fishing boats (no sport trollers) | $15.00 |
Plate Transfer Fee
$10.00. An additional $5.00 fee is collected in certain circumstances. There is an online Plate Transfer Fee Calculator.
Duplicate & Replacement
$5.00 for replacement license plate and tab, tab only, or snowmobile decals or registration; $2.00 for watercraft or moped decals or registration. No fee for duplicate vehicle registration.
Refunds
Allowed in cases of official error, overpayment, or dual registration. A prorated refund is also available to a surviving spouse or upon suspension of driver license for medical reasons. A Refund Request Form (A-226) must be submitted.
Reduction of Fees
Commercial vehicle registration fees are reduced by half on September 1. Passenger vehicles with permanently installed hand controls or a wheelchair lift mechanism and owned by an individual who uses a wheelchair are assessed 50% of the registration fee when registered with a disability plate.
Official Forms & Resources
Links to official Michigan Department of State forms and resources. Title and registration transactions are processed through SOS Branch Offices.
Michigan Department of State
Address:
7064 Crowner Drive, 3rd Floor
Lansing, MI 48918
Make checks payable to State of Michigan.
Helpful Links
Michigan SOS — Department of State
Main resource for titling and registration
SOS Online Services
Title status, registration renewal, duplicate title, and more
SOS Branch Office Locator
Find your nearest SOS Branch Office
Search for Liens and Brands
Check vehicle title, lien, and brand status
Registration Fee Calculator
Online registration fee estimator
Michigan DNR — ORV & Snowmobile
ORV licenses, trail permits, and snowmobile registration
IRP Unit
International Registration Plan for commercial vehicles
Abandoned Vehicle Search
Search for abandoned vehicles in Michigan
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Leased Vehicles
The same title, registration documents, and registration fees apply to leased vehicles as to non-leased vehicles. Title and registration show both the lessor and lessee names. Either the lessor's or lessee's address may be used. Title is mailed to the lessor unless otherwise requested by the lessor. Registration is mailed to the lessee. If the lessee elects to purchase a vehicle at the end of the lease term through the dealer, the lessor must mail the title to the dealer within 21 days after receiving payment due under the terms of the lease.
A leasing company with a Michigan tax registration number may either pay 6.0% sales tax at time of title application or pay 6.0% use tax on the monthly lease receipts. Payment is made to the Michigan Department of Treasury. If the lessee makes a down payment, the down payment is considered the first payment and is subject to 6.0% use tax. If the lessee purchases the vehicle at the end of the lease contract, tax is due on the buyout price. Sales tax trade-in credit is not allowed for leased vehicles.
Financial Responsibility Laws
| Coverage | Minimum |
|---|---|
| PIP (Personal Injury Protection) | Required (choose level) |
| PPI (Property Protection) | Required |
| BI/PD Liability | $50,000/$100,000/$10,000 |
| BI/PD (TNCs during prearranged ride) | $50,000/$100,000/$25,000 + $1M CSL |
| Limousines | $1,000,000 CSL |
| Taxis | $300,000 CSL |
| Commercial quadricycles | $2,000,000 CSL |
No-fault insurance is required for all motor vehicles except motorcycles; however, motorcycles must be insured. Insurers must submit policy information using the Secretary of State's Electronic Insurance Verification program. Proof of insurance must be carried in the vehicle. Failure to maintain insurance may result in suspension of driver license and/or plates plus fines and fees.
Emission Inspection
Not required in Michigan.
Motor Vehicle Equipment Inspection
Limousines, taxis, and TNC vehicles are inspected annually. Also required on assembled and reconstructed vehicles and trucks rebuilt using a glider kit. School buses are inspected annually by the Department of State Police.
Records
Title records filed by VIN. Registration records filed by registration number. Title records are maintained indefinitely. Registration records are kept three years plus current year. ORV records are kept seven years. A Record Request for Account Holders (BDVR-153) or a Non-Account & Individual Record Request (BDVR-154) must be submitted with a fee of $15.00 for each record lookup or history request plus $1.00 for certification.
Enforcement
Michigan State Police, 7150 Harris Drive, Dimondale, MI 48821, PO Box 30634, Lansing, MI 48909, 517.332.2521, 517.284.3250 for commercial vehicle enforcement.
Michigan Department of State
Address:
7064 Crowner Drive, 3rd Floor
Lansing, MI 48918
Phone:
888.767.6424Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Fees, requirements, and procedures may change. Always verify current information with the Michigan Department of State — or contact Illinois Title Services for professional assistance.