Car Registration Requirements for New Oregon Residents
Relocating to Oregon includes registering your motor vehicle in a timely manner. Understanding the specific requirements and deadlines established by Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services ensures compliance with state regulations and helps avoid penalties.
Timeline for New Oregon Residents
New residents must register their vehicles within 30 days of establishing Oregon residency.
Late title applications submitted more than 30 days after the date of sale incur additional fees of $25 for applications filed 31-60 days late, or $50 for applications filed after 60 days.
Establishing Oregon Residency
Oregon law defines residency for car registration purposes under specific criteria. According to ORS 803.200, a person qualifies as a resident for vehicle titling and registration if they engage in any gainful employment in Oregon or take actions demonstrating the establishment of residence during their period of sojourn in the state.
Required Documentation for Car Registration in Oregon
The title and registration process requires the following items:
Ownership Documentation
- Completed Application for Title and Registration (Form 735-226)
- Original out-of-state title or ownership document
- Certificate of Origin for brand new vehicles
- Original releases or bills of sale from any previous owners
- Lien releases from any previous security interest holders
Application Submission Methods
New residents have multiple options for submitting their car title and registration applications:
In-Person Submission
Applicants may visit any DMV office offering title and registration services.
Mail Submission
Applications and supporting documents may be mailed to:
Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services
1905 Lana Ave NE, Salem, OR 97314
Phone: (503) 945-5000
Official Website: Oregon DMV
Vehicle Identification
Vehicles with out-of-state or foreign titles must undergo a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection, which costs $9. This inspection can be performed during a title appointment at DMV offices. The VIN inspection verifies the vehicle's authenticity and ensures proper identification.
Insurance Requirements
Oregon law mandates specific minimum insurance coverage for all registered vehicles. Under ORS 806.010, drivers must maintain the following minimum coverage:
Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability:
- $25,000 per person
- $50,000 per crash for bodily injury
- $20,000 per crash for property damage
Personal Injury Protection:
- $15,000 per person
Uninsured Motorist Coverage:
- $25,000 per person
- $50,000 per crash for bodily injury
Applicants must provide their insurance policy number when registering their car. Operating a motor vehicle without proper liability coverage violates Oregon law.
Oregon Emission Testing Requirements
Vehicles that will be registered in the Portland Metro area (Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington counties) and the Medford/Ashland area must pass emissions tests. The Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) administers the Vehicle Inspection Program in designated regions. New residents with vehicles registered in these areas cannot complete registration without a passing emissions test certificate.
Registration Fees and Costs in Oregon
Oregon vehicle registration fee is based on multiple factors, including vehicle type, fuel efficiency (MPG rating), county of residence, and registration period.
Title fees vary depending on vehicle classification and weight, while additional costs may include license plate fees, county registration fees, and specialty plate surcharges.
Passenger car owners can calculate their total fees using the DMV2U fee calculator, which also prepares the application.
Contact Information
Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services
1905 Lana Ave NE, Salem, OR 97314
Phone: (503) 945-5000
Official Website: Oregon DMV
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality - Vehicle Inspection Program
Portland Area: (503) 229-5066
Medford Area: (541) 776-6145
Toll-Free in Oregon: (877) 476-0583
TTY: 711
Official Website: Vehicle Inspection Program
