Missouri Driver’s License & Registration for New Residents

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Missouri driver's license and registration for new residents
You have 30 days to transfer your driver's license and to register a car in Missouri. Here's how it works, the costs, and links for the required forms.

❗️Quick Info: Once you’ve settled in Missouri, you have a concise 30-day timeframe to transfer your out-of-state driver’s license and vehicle registration.

Welcome to Missouri, the enchanting “Show Me State”! As you embrace the tapestry of Midwestern and Southern charm, there’s some crucial groundwork to cover. Before you set off exploring the Ozarks or reveling in the vibrant cityscapes of St. Louis and Kansas City, make sure your driving credentials align with Missouri standards. Dive into our easy guide below for a seamless transition.

Process for Obtaining a License in Missouri

  • Make a Beeline for the DOR: Your first order of business is a trip to the .
  • Out With the Old: Missouri will require your prior out-of-state driver’s license. If you can’t produce it, a current certified copy of your driving record will suffice. 
  • Documentation Ready: Assemble proofs of your identity, date of lawful status, social security number, and 2 proofs of Missouri residential address. .
  • A Matter of Age, Duration, and Dollars: A Class A, B, or C  $26 for three years and $52 for six if over 18 years old.

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Vehicle Registration in Missouri

  • Head to the Bureau: Get to your local . Remember, you’re on the clock with a 30-day deadline post-move.
  • Safety Inspection: Missouri needs to confirm your VIN and odometer reading, a task performed at a  office.
  • Emissions Checkpoint: For certain locales in Missouri, emissions testing is not just a suggestion – it’s the law. The  holds the reins here, so ensure you’re compliant if you reside in one of the mandatory testing areas.
  • Statement of non-assessment: If you owe personal property taxes in Missouri, you can not register a vehicle. So, visit the State Tax Commission to  who can provide a statement of non-assessment.
  • Paperwork in Order: Complete an . Ensure you have proof of your vehicle’s ownership; the current certificate of title or registration card will do the trick. If you have a lienholder, complete the . Proof of insurance is also required.

Fees and Taxes: When preparing to handle your vehicle registration, it’s essential to be informed about the specific costs associated with the process. In Missouri, the costs to be mindful of include:

  • A title fee of $8.50 and a processing fee of $6.00.
  • An optional electronic transmission fee of $2, which may be collected if applicable.
  • Registration fees that are determined either by the taxable horsepower of your vehicle or its weight. See fee schedule below.
  • Depending on your locality, there might be state and local taxes to account for. However, a relief in this section: If your vehicle has been owned and operated in another state for at least 90 days before being titled and registered in Missouri, you won’t owe any additional sales tax.

Missouri’s Tax Structure for Vehicle Registration: Missouri employs a unique tax structure based on the taxable horsepower of your vehicle. The breakdown is as follows:

Taxable Horsepower1-year Fee1-year Processing2-year Fee2-year Processing
UNDER 12 HP, ELECTRIC VEHICLE, or LOW SPEED VEHICLE$18.25$6$36.50$12
12 – 23 HP$21.25$6$42.50$12
24 – 35 HP$24.25$6$48.50$12
36-47 HP$33.25$6$66.50$12
48 – 59 HP$39.25$6$78.50$12
60 – 71 HP$45.25$6$90.50$12
72 HP and above$51.25$6$102.50$12

Conclusion: While settling into the rhythms of Missouri, a brief dance with bureaucracy is essential. But with that squared away, you’re ready to explore everything from the bustling streets of St. Louis to the serene Ozark landscapes. So, get set and embrace the vibrant essence of Missouri!

About The Author

Travis French

Travis French

On a 750-mile trek across 4 states, I felt the void: good info on places to live was missing. So, I started gathering. Today, I'm still searching for my perfect place alongside you and adding each bit of helpful information I discover along the way. —Writer, Home Advisor, & Owner of First&Sold. NVRED Lic #S.0182305

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