Missouri Title & Registration Guide
Complete guide to Missouri vehicle title fees, registration requirements, sales tax rates, lien laws, safety & emissions inspections, official forms, and military exemptions. Includes a fee calculator.
Fee Calculator
Estimate your Missouri title, registration, and sales tax costs. State sales tax is 4.225%. Select your city or enter your local rate for a more accurate estimate.
Taxable Price = Purchase Price + Doc Fees + Delivery/Freight/Prep + Add-Ons/Accessories − Trade Allowance
Don't know your rate? Look it up on the Missouri DOR website →
Taxable HP is a calculated value — not the same as advertised HP. View the Missouri Taxable Horsepower Chart (PDF) →
If you already paid sales/use tax to another state on this vehicle, enter that amount here. Missouri will credit it against the tax owed — reducing your total.
Checks Payable To
- •Title, Registration & Tax Fees: Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) — send with title pack to customer's local driver's license facility or directly to the customer
* Estimate only. Local tax rates are approximate. Does not include personal property tax, late penalties, or other charges. Contact Illinois Title Services for an exact quote.
Title Fees
Missouri titles are processed through the Department of Revenue (DOR). All motor vehicles, trailers, ATVs, manufactured homes, watercraft, and outboard motors must be titled. A processing/agent fee applies to every transaction.
Motor Vehicle, Trailer, ATV & Manufactured Home Title Fees
| Transaction Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Original Title | $8.50 |
| Duplicate Title | $8.50 |
| Corrected Title | $8.50 |
| Salvage Title | $8.50 |
| Prior Salvage Title | $8.50 |
| Junk Title | $8.50 |
| Reconstructed / Special Constructed Title | $8.50 |
| Motor Change Title | $8.50 |
| Title Only (no registration) | $8.50 |
| Repossessed Vehicle Title | $10.00 |
| Mechanic Lien Title | $10.00 |
| Quick Title (add to regular fee) | +$5.00 |
| Notice of Lien Filing | $7.00 |
Title Processing / Agent Fee
A processing fee is charged on every title transaction. The amount depends on how the documentation is submitted:
| Submission Method | Processing Fee |
|---|---|
| Walk-in / Counter (submitted in person at a license office) | $2.50 |
| Mailed in (documentation submitted by mail) | $9.00 |
Watercraft & Outboard Motor Title Fees
| Transaction Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Original Vessel (Watercraft) Title | $7.50 |
| Original Outboard Motor Title | $5.00 |
| Duplicate Vessel Title | $8.50 |
| Duplicate Outboard Motor Title | $8.50 |
| Corrected Vessel Title | $7.50 |
| Corrected Outboard Motor Title | $5.00 |
| Repossessed Vessel / Outboard Motor Title | $10.00 |
| Quick Title (add to regular fee) | +$5.00 |
Title Penalties
Motor Vehicles, Trailers, ATVs & Manufactured Homes
Must apply for title within 30 days of purchase. On the 31st day, a $25 penalty is assessed, plus $25 for each additional 30-day period, up to a maximum of $200.
Vessels (Watercraft) & Outboard Motors
Must apply for title within 60 days of purchase. On the 61st day, a $10 penalty is assessed, plus $10 for each additional 30-day period, up to a maximum of $30.
Proof of Ownership Requirements
- ●New vehicles: Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO) properly assigned
- ●Used vehicles: Certificate of Title properly assigned by the seller with notarized signatures
- ●Out-of-state vehicles: Out-of-state title plus Missouri safety inspection (and emissions if applicable)
- ●Manufactured homes: MSO or title, plus VIN/HIN inspection if no prior Missouri title
- ●Utility vehicles / ROHVs: MSO, title, or bill of sale. Must meet safety requirements for road use
- ●Insufficient proof: Bonded title may be available — requires a surety bond of 1.5× the vehicle's value
Special Title Types
Salvage Title
Required when an insurance company declares a vehicle a total loss. Salvage businesses must be licensed. The title is branded "SALVAGE" and cannot be registered for road use until rebuilt and inspected.
Prior Salvage Title
Issued after a salvage vehicle has been rebuilt and passes a Missouri Highway Patrol inspection (Form 551). The title is permanently branded "PRIOR SALVAGE."
Junk Title
Issued for vehicles intended for scrap or parts only. A junk title cannot be converted back to a regular or salvage title. The vehicle cannot be rebuilt or returned to road use.
Bonded Title
Available when ownership documentation is insufficient. Requires a surety bond of 1.5× the vehicle's value. The bond remains in effect for 5 years. Title is branded "BONDED" until the bond period expires.
Abandoned / Unclaimed Vehicle
Requires law enforcement involvement and a 15-day certified letter notice to the last known owner and lienholder. If unclaimed, a title may be issued to the applicant.
Mechanic Lien Title
Available to repair shops for vehicles abandoned after repair. Requires certified mail notification to the owner and lienholder, plus a 30-day waiting period. Title fee is $10.00.
Sales Tax & Use Tax
4.225%
State Sales/Use Tax
Varies
Local Tax (City/County)
30 Days
Title Deadline
State Sales Tax
Missouri's state sales tax rate is 4.225% on the net purchase price of motor vehicles, trailers, ATVs, manufactured homes, vessels, and outboard motors. Tax is collected at the time of titling at a DOR license office.
Sales Tax vs. Use Tax
- •Sales Tax (S): Collected when the vehicle is sold by a Missouri dealer. The dealer collects and remits the tax.
- •Use Tax (U): Collected on all other sales — private party, out-of-state purchases, gifts, etc. Paid at the time of titling at a Missouri DOR license office.
Local Taxes
In addition to the state rate, local taxes (city and/or county) apply based on the applicant's Missouri address. Local rates vary by location. The total combined rate typically ranges from about 5% to over 10% in some areas. Use the fee calculator below to look up your local rate.
Trade-In Credit
When purchasing a vehicle from a Missouri dealer, the trade-in value of a vehicle you surrender is deducted from the purchase price before sales tax is calculated. Tax is paid only on the net difference. This credit does not apply to private-party sales.
Out-of-State Credit
If you purchased a vehicle in another state and paid sales/use tax there, Missouri will credit the amount paid toward the Missouri tax due. If the other state's rate was equal to or greater than Missouri's combined rate, no additional tax is due. You must provide proof of tax paid.
Documented Vessels — In-Lieu Tax
U.S. Coast Guard documented vessels are subject to a tax in lieu of sales tax based on the vessel's value. This is a one-time tax collected at the time of titling. Contact the DOR for the current rate schedule.
Tax Exemptions
- ●Transfers between spouses, parent/child, or grandparent/grandchild (with no consideration)
- ●Inheritance / estate transfers
- ●Government and tax-exempt organization purchases
- ●Vehicles transferred as part of a court order or divorce decree
Rescinded Sales
If a vehicle is returned to the seller within 60 days of purchase and the sale is rescinded, the purchaser may receive a full refund of all state and local taxes paid. Title, processing, and registration fees are not refunded.
Special Fuel Decals
Vehicles using propane, natural gas, or other special fuels must display a Special Fuel Decal. The annual decal fee is based on the vehicle's gross weight. Contact the DOR Motor Fuel Tax Unit for current rates.
Registration
Missouri registration fees vary by vehicle type. Passenger vehicles and motorcycles are registered based on taxable horsepower. Trucks and commercial vehicles are registered by gross vehicle weight. A $3.50 registration processing/agent fee applies to each transaction.
Passenger Vehicles
Missouri passenger vehicle registration fees are based on taxable horsepower — a calculated value that differs from the engine's advertised HP. Check your registration paperwork or contact the DOR for your vehicle's taxable HP rating.
| Taxable Horsepower | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| 12 HP and under | $18.25 |
| 12.01 – 24 HP | $21.25 |
| 24.01 – 36 HP | $24.25 |
| 36.01 – 48 HP | $33.25 |
| 48.01 – 60 HP | $39.25 |
| 60.01 – 72 HP | $45.25 |
| 72.01 HP and over | $51.25 |
Multi-Year Registration: Missouri offers 1-year and 2-year registration options for passenger vehicles. Two-year fees are double the annual rate.
Motorcycles
Motorcycle registration fees use the same taxable horsepower scale as passenger vehicles. Motorcycles also require a separate motorcycle endorsement on the driver's license.
Motorcycle fees follow the same HP-based table above. Most motorcycles fall in the lower HP brackets. A $3.50 processing fee applies per transaction.
Trucks & Commercial Vehicles
Missouri truck and commercial vehicle registration fees are based on gross vehicle weight (GVW). Local commercial vehicles are registered on a calendar-year basis. Interstate commercial vehicles may use the International Registration Plan (IRP).
| Gross Vehicle Weight | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| 6,000 lbs and under | $33.00 |
| 6,001 – 8,000 lbs | $38.00 |
| 8,001 – 10,000 lbs | $43.00 |
| 10,001 – 12,000 lbs | $52.00 |
| 12,001 – 14,000 lbs | $62.00 |
| 14,001 – 16,000 lbs | $72.00 |
| 16,001 – 18,000 lbs | $82.00 |
| 18,001 – 20,000 lbs | $92.00 |
| 20,001 – 24,000 lbs | $107.00 |
| 24,001 – 26,000 lbs | $122.00 |
| 26,001 – 30,000 lbs | $147.00 |
| 30,001 – 36,000 lbs | $182.00 |
| 36,001 – 42,000 lbs | $222.00 |
| 42,001 – 48,000 lbs | $262.00 |
| 48,001 – 54,000 lbs | $302.00 |
| 54,001 – 60,000 lbs | $342.00 |
| 60,001 – 66,000 lbs | $382.00 |
| 66,001 – 73,280 lbs | $427.00 |
| 73,281 – 80,000 lbs | $472.00 |
Note: Vehicles over 18,000 lbs GVW may also be subject to the federal Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT, Form 2290). Proof of HVUT payment is required at registration.
Buses
Bus registration fees are based on seating capacity:
| Seating Capacity | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| 21 passengers or fewer | $62.00 |
| 22 – 42 passengers | $92.00 |
| 43 passengers or more | $122.00 |
Trailers
All trailers operated on Missouri roads must be registered. Fees are based on gross vehicle weight (GVW). Permanent trailer registration is available for trailers 12,000 lbs and under.
| Gross Vehicle Weight | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| 3,000 lbs and under | $18.25 |
| 3,001 – 6,000 lbs | $21.25 |
| 6,001 – 10,000 lbs | $27.25 |
| 10,001 – 18,000 lbs | $37.25 |
| 18,001 – 26,000 lbs | $52.25 |
| 26,001 – 36,000 lbs | $72.25 |
| 36,001 – 48,000 lbs | $97.25 |
| 48,001 lbs and over | $122.25 |
Watercraft Registration
All motorized watercraft operated on Missouri waters must be registered. Fees are based on vessel length. Registration is handled by the Missouri DOR. Sailboats over 12 feet must also be registered.
| Vessel Length | Registration Fee |
|---|---|
| Under 16 feet | $25.00 |
| 16 ft. to less than 26 ft. | $55.00 |
| 26 ft. to less than 40 ft. | $100.00 |
| 40 ft. and over | $150.00 |
Outboard Motors
Outboard motors are titled separately from the vessel but do not require separate registration — the vessel registration covers the motor. Title fee for outboard motors is $5.00.
ATV / OHV Decals
ATVs and off-highway vehicles used on public land require a $12.50 annual decal from the Missouri DOR. ATVs are titled but not registered for road use.
Historic & Special Plates
| Plate Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Historic (Year of Manufacture) Plates | $25.00 |
| Personalized Plates (additional annual fee) | $15.00 |
| Plate Transfer Fee | $2.00 |
| Duplicate / Replacement Plate | $6.00 |
| Duplicate Registration Receipt | $2.00 |
Penalties & Late Fees
| Penalty Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Late Renewal (expired registration) | $5.00 |
| Failure to Transfer Plate (multi-year plate <5 yrs old) | $8.50 |
| Registration Processing / Agent Fee (per transaction) | $3.50 |
Registration Requirements
Personal Property Tax
Missouri requires a paid personal property tax receipt or a statement of non-assessment from the county (or City of St. Louis) collector/assessor for the previous year before a vehicle can be registered or renewed.
Safety Inspection
A Missouri vehicle safety inspection certificate (not more than 60 days old) is required for most vehicles at initial registration and biennially at renewal. See the Safety & Emissions section for exemptions.
Proof of Insurance
Proof of financial responsibility (liability insurance) is required. Acceptable forms include a current insurance ID card, policy, binder, or self-insured ID card. Missouri minimum liability: 25/50/25.
Plate Transfer
Missouri allows license plate transfers between vehicles owned by the same person. A $2.00 transfer fee applies. Surrendered plates may receive credit toward a new registration. Plates can be transferred regardless of type (passenger, truck, trailer).
Planned Non-Operation (PNO)
Vehicles not being operated on public roads may file a Planned Non-Operation declaration. This exempts the vehicle from registration renewal and personal property tax until it is returned to active use.
Lien & Transfer Laws
Notice of Lien
Liens on Missouri motor vehicles, trailers, ATVs, manufactured homes, watercraft, and outboard motors are recorded on the certificate of title. A $7.00 filing fee applies for each notice of lien. The lien is perfected when recorded by the DOR.
Lien Expiration
A lien on a motor vehicle title expires 10 years from the date it was filed unless renewed. The lienholder must file a continuation statement to extend the lien. After expiration, the owner may apply for a clear title.
Lien Release
When a lien is satisfied, the lienholder must provide a lien release to the owner. The owner can then apply for a clear title. If the lienholder fails to release the lien within 10 business days of payoff, they may be liable for damages.
Electronic Lien & Title (ELT)
Missouri participates in the Electronic Lien and Title program. Participating lienholders receive and release liens electronically, eliminating paper title handling. The DOR maintains the title electronically until the lien is released.
Assignment of Lien
A lienholder may assign their lien interest to another party. The assignment must be filed with the DOR. A $7.00 fee applies for recording the assignment.
UCC Liens
Liens on vehicles used as business collateral may also be filed under the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) with the Secretary of State. However, the DOR title lien is the primary method for perfecting a security interest in a motor vehicle.
Transfer of Title
Transfer Deadline
The buyer must apply for a new title within 30 days of purchase for motor vehicles, trailers, ATVs, and manufactured homes. For watercraft and outboard motors, the deadline is 60 days. Late penalties apply after the deadline.
Notarization
Missouri requires notarized signatures on the title assignment for all transfers. Both the seller's and buyer's signatures must be notarized. A secure power of attorney may be used if the seller cannot be present.
Notice of Sale
Sellers should file a Notice of Sale (Form 5049) with the DOR within 30 days of selling a vehicle. This protects the seller from liability for the vehicle after the sale.
Odometer Disclosure
Federal and state law require an odometer disclosure statement for vehicles less than 20 years old with a GVWR of 16,000 lbs or less. The disclosure must be made on the title or on a separate federal odometer statement form.
Joint Tenancy / Transfer on Death
Missouri titles may be held in joint tenancy with right of survivorship or with a transfer on death (TOD) beneficiary. These designations allow the vehicle to pass to the surviving owner or beneficiary without probate.
Repossession
A lienholder may repossess a vehicle upon default. The lienholder must apply for a repossessed title within 30 days of repossession. Title fee for repossessed vehicles is $10.00. The debtor must be notified of the right to redeem.
VIN / HIN Inspection
A VIN or HIN inspection may be required for out-of-state vehicles, homemade trailers, reconstructed vehicles, and vehicles without a prior Missouri title. Inspections are performed by the Missouri State Highway Patrol or authorized inspection stations.
Safety & Emissions Inspection
Safety Inspection
Missouri requires a vehicle safety inspection for most motor vehicles. The inspection certificate must be no more than 60 days old at the time of registration or renewal. Inspections are performed at authorized Missouri inspection stations.
- ●Required at initial registration and biennially (every 2 years) at renewal
- ●Covers brakes, lights, signals, tires, steering, windshield, mirrors, horn, exhaust, and more
- ●Inspection fee is set by the inspection station (typically $12 or less)
Vehicles Exempt from Safety Inspection
- ●New vehicles (first registration from a dealer with MSO)
- ●Historic (year of manufacture) plated vehicles
- ●Trailers under 2,000 lbs GVW
- ●Motorcycles (safety inspection not required, but emissions may apply)
- ●Vehicles registered as "farm" that do not travel on public roads
Emissions Inspection
Emissions testing is required only in the St. Louis and Kansas City metro areas (designated Gateway Vehicle Inspection Program counties):
St. Louis Area
- ●St. Louis City
- ●St. Louis County
- ●St. Charles County
- ●Jefferson County
- ●Franklin County
Kansas City Area
- ●Jackson County
- ●Clay County
- ●Platte County
Vehicles Exempt from Emissions
- ●Vehicles 5 model years old or newer
- ●Diesel-powered vehicles
- ●Electric and hybrid vehicles
- ●Vehicles with historic plates
- ●Motorcycles
- ●Vehicles registered outside the designated counties
Tip: If you live outside the emissions counties, you only need a safety inspection. If you live in an emissions county, you need both a safety and emissions inspection. Combined inspections are available at many authorized stations.
Military & Veteran Exemptions
Active Duty — Registration Exemption
Active-duty military members stationed in Missouri but domiciled in another state are not required to register their vehicles in Missouri. They may continue to use their home state registration. Must provide military orders or ID as proof.
Active Duty — Title Transfer Deadline Extension
Active-duty military members who purchase a vehicle while deployed or stationed away from home may receive an extension on the 30-day title transfer deadline. Late penalties may be waived with proof of military service.
Disabled Veteran Plates
Missouri offers Disabled Veteran license plates at no registration fee for veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 100% or a total disability rating based on individual unemployability. Proof from the VA is required.
Former POW Plates
Former prisoners of war may receive special POW license plates at no registration fee. Proof of POW status from the Department of Defense or VA is required.
Military Specialty Plates
Missouri offers a variety of military-themed specialty plates (Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Silver Star, etc.). Standard registration fees apply, plus any specialty plate surcharge. Contact the DOR for the full list of available military plates.
Personal Property Tax — Military Exemption
Active-duty military members may be exempt from Missouri personal property tax on their vehicles if they are domiciled in another state. A statement of non-assessment from the county assessor may be required for registration.
Documentation Tip: Always bring your military ID, DD-214 (for veterans), VA disability letter, or current orders when visiting a Missouri license office. Having the right documentation speeds up the process and ensures you receive all applicable exemptions.
Official Forms & Resources
Missouri Department of Revenue — Motor Vehicle Bureau
Address:
Harry S Truman State Office Building
301 West High Street
P.O. Box 100
Jefferson City, MO 65105-0100
Key Forms
| Form | Description |
|---|---|
| Form 108 | Application for Missouri Title and License / Duplicate Title |
| Form 5049 | Notice of Sale (seller files after selling a vehicle) |
| Form 551 | Vehicle Examination Certificate (Highway Patrol inspection) |
| Form 3019 | Odometer Disclosure Statement |
| Form 1957 | Bill of Sale for Motor Vehicle, Trailer, or ATV |
| Form 4809 | Notice of Lien / Lien Release |
| Form 4054 | Power of Attorney for Motor Vehicle Transactions |
| Form 5005 | Affidavit of Repossession |
| UCC1 | UCC1 Financing Statement — used to secure a lien on UTVs and other non-titled vehicles (filed with Missouri Secretary of State) |
Helpful Links
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Leased Vehicles
Leased vehicles are titled in the lessor's (leasing company's) name with the lessee listed. The lessor is responsible for titling. When the lease ends and the lessee purchases the vehicle, a new title application is required.
Rental Vehicles
Rental companies must title and register all vehicles in Missouri. Rental vehicles are subject to a 3% gross receipts tax on rental charges in addition to standard sales tax.
Insurance Requirements
Missouri requires minimum liability insurance: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage (25/50/25). Proof of insurance is required at registration.
Dealer & Manufacturer Plates
Licensed Missouri dealers and manufacturers may obtain dealer plates for business use. Plates are issued by the DOR and must be used only on vehicles in the dealer's inventory or for business purposes.
Nonresident Plates
Nonresidents who operate vehicles in Missouri for more than 30 days may be required to obtain Missouri registration. Military members stationed in Missouri are exempt (see Military section).
Special Permits
Missouri issues temporary permits (30-day and 60-day) for vehicles awaiting title or registration. Trip permits are available for vehicles being moved to another state. Contact a license office for permit options.
Record Requests
Vehicle title and registration records can be requested from the DOR. A $5.00 fee applies per record. Requests must comply with the Driver Privacy Protection Act (DPPA).
Enforcement
Operating an unregistered vehicle, driving without insurance, or failing to title a vehicle within the required timeframe are violations subject to fines and penalties. Repeated violations may result in license suspension.