Use our DMV Registration Fees Calculator to estimate vehicle registration costs. Includes all fees, taxes, and county charges. Free and accurate.
Registering a vehicle with the DMV involves multiple fees that can add up quickly. Use our DMV Registration Fees Calculator below to get an accurate, instant estimate of your total registration costs before visiting the DMV office.
Complete DMV Registration Fee Tables
Understanding the fee structure helps you estimate costs accurately. Below are the detailed rate tables used in the calculator above.
Passenger Vehicle Registration Fees (2-Year Period)
The calculator uses this complete weight-based fee schedule:
| Weight Range (lbs) | Registration Fee | Weight Range (lbs) | Registration Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 – 1,650 | $26.00 | 3,051 – 3,150 | $50.00 |
| 1,651 – 1,750 | $27.50 | 3,151 – 3,250 | $52.00 |
| 1,751 – 1,850 | $29.00 | 3,251 – 3,350 | $53.50 |
| 1,851 – 1,950 | $31.00 | 3,351 – 3,450 | $55.00 |
| 1,951 – 2,050 | $32.50 | 3,451 – 3,550 | $56.50 |
| 2,051 – 2,150 | $34.00 | 3,551 – 3,650 | $59.00 |
| 2,151 – 2,250 | $35.50 | 3,651 – 3,750 | $61.50 |
| 2,251 – 2,350 | $37.50 | 3,751 – 3,850 | $64.00 |
| 2,351 – 2,450 | $39.00 | 3,851 – 3,950 | $66.50 |
| 2,451 – 2,550 | $40.50 | 3,951 – 4,050 | $69.00 |
| 2,551 – 2,650 | $42.00 | 4,051 – 4,150 | $71.00 |
| 2,651 – 2,750 | $43.50 | 4,151 – 4,250 | $73.50 |
| 2,751 – 2,850 | $45.50 | 4,251 – 4,350 | $76.00 |
| 2,851 – 2,950 | $47.00 | 4,351 – 4,450 | $78.50 |
| 2,951 – 3,050 | $48.50 | 4,451 – 4,550 | $81.00 |
| Weight Range (lbs) | Registration Fee | Weight Range (lbs) | Registration Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4,551 – 4,650 | $83.50 | 5,751 – 5,850 | $112.50 |
| 4,651 – 4,750 | $85.50 | 5,851 – 5,950 | $115.00 |
| 4,751 – 4,850 | $88.00 | 5,951 – 6,050 | $117.00 |
| 4,851 – 4,950 | $90.50 | 6,051 – 6,150 | $119.50 |
| 4,951 – 5,050 | $93.00 | 6,151 – 6,250 | $122.00 |
| 5,051 – 5,150 | $95.50 | 6,251 – 6,350 | $124.50 |
| 5,151 – 5,250 | $98.00 | 6,351 – 6,450 | $127.00 |
| 5,251 – 5,350 | $100.50 | 6,451 – 6,550 | $129.50 |
| 5,351 – 5,450 | $102.50 | 6,551 – 6,650 | $131.50 |
| 5,451 – 5,550 | $105.00 | 6,651 – 6,750 | $134.00 |
| 5,551 – 5,650 | $107.50 | 6,751 – 6,850 | $136.50 |
| 5,651 – 5,750 | $110.00 | 6,851 – 6,950 | $139.00 |
| 5,751 – 5,850 | $112.50 | 6,951+ | $140.00 |
Special Rule: Vehicles with more than 4 cylinders or electric vehicles have a minimum fee of $32.50 regardless of weight.
Vehicle Type Registration Fees
| Vehicle Type | Weight Category | 2-Year Registration Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Motorcycle | All weights | $32.50 |
| Commercial | ≤3,000 lbs | $45.00 |
| Commercial | 3,001 – 6,000 lbs | $93.00 |
| Commercial | 6,001 – 10,000 lbs | $149.00 |
| Commercial | 10,001+ lbs | $200.00 |
| Trailer | Per 500 lbs unit | $5.39/unit (minimum $14.38) |
Sales Tax Rates
The calculator applies these tax rates based on your county selection:
| Tax Component | Rate | Application |
|---|---|---|
| State Sales Tax | 4.00% | All vehicle purchases |
| Local Sales Tax | 4.00% – 4.50% | Varies by county |
| MCTD Surcharge | 0.375% | Only in 12 MCTD counties |
| Total Combined Rate | 8.00% – 8.875% | State + Local + MCTD (if applicable) |
County Use Tax (2-Year Period)
| County Category | Vehicle ≤3,500 lbs | Vehicle >3,500 lbs | MCTD Fee Applies |
|---|---|---|---|
| NYC Boroughs (Bronx, Kings, Manhattan, Queens, Richmond) | $30 | $30 | Yes ($50) |
| Nassau | $30 | $30 | Yes ($50) |
| Suffolk | $30 | $60 | Yes ($50) |
| Westchester | $30 | $60 | Yes ($50) |
| Dutchess | $10 | $20 | Yes ($50) |
| Orange | $0 | $0 | Yes ($50) |
| Putnam | $10 | $20 | Yes ($50) |
| Rockland | $10 | $20 | Yes ($50) |
| All Other Counties (54 counties) | $10 | $20 | No |
Fixed DMV Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | When Applied |
|---|---|---|
| Title Certificate | $50.00 | Original registration only |
| Vehicle Plate Fee (Passenger) | $25.00 | Original registration |
| Vehicle Plate Fee (Motorcycle) | $10.50 | New motorcycle plates |
| Vehicle Plate Fee (Transfer) | $18.00 | Transfer with new plates |
| Transfer Fee | $10.00 | Transferring existing plates |
| MCTD Supplemental Fee | $50.00 | 2-year fee (12 counties only) |
| Lien Filing Fee | $5.00 | Per lien (dealer-filed) |
How to Use the DMV Registration Fees Calculator
Step 1: Enter Vehicle Information
| Field | What to Enter | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Passenger, Motorcycle, Commercial, or Trailer | Determines which fee table applies |
| Weight (Lbs) | Vehicle’s unladen weight in pounds | Directly affects registration fee amount |
| Fuel Type | Gas, Diesel, Electric, Hybrid, CNG, Propane, Other, None | Electric vehicles have minimum $32.50 fee |
| Cylinders | 4 or fewer / More than 4 / None | More than 4 cylinders triggers minimum $32.50 fee |
| County | Your county of residence | Determines use tax and MCTD eligibility |
Step 2: Select Lien Status
| Lien Option | When to Choose | Fee Impact |
|---|---|---|
| None | No liens on vehicle | No additional fees |
| Electronic | Lender files electronically | No additional DMV fees |
| Dealer Filed | Dealer files lien paperwork | $5.00 per lien |
Step 3: Choose Transaction Type
| Transaction Type | What It Means | Fees Included |
|---|---|---|
| Original Registration | First-time registration with new plates | Registration + Plates ($25) + Title ($50) + Use Tax + Sales Tax + MCTD (if applicable) |
| Transfer Plates | Move existing plates to new vehicle | Registration + Transfer Fee ($10) + MCTD (if applicable) |
| Transfer Reg + New Plates | Keep registration, get new plates | Registration + Transfer Fee ($10) + New Plates ($18) + MCTD (if applicable) |
Step 4: Enter Purchase Price (Original Registration Only)
For original registrations, enter the vehicle purchase price to calculate sales tax. The calculator applies the correct combined state, local, and MCTD tax rate based on your county.
Required Documents for DMV Registration
Bring these documents when visiting the DMV office:
Original Registration Documents
| Document | Description | Where to Get It |
|---|---|---|
| Form MV-82 | Vehicle Registration/Title Application | Download from DMV website or get at DMV office |
| Vehicle Title | Proof of ownership | Seller or dealer |
| Form DTF-802 | Statement of Transaction for sales tax | Download from DMV website |
| Proof of Identity | Valid driver’s license or state ID | Your current ID |
| Proof of Insurance (FS-20) | NYS Insurance Identification Card | Your insurance company |
| Bill of Sale | Purchase documentation | Seller or dealer |
| Odometer Disclosure | Current mileage (vehicles less than 20 years old) | Included with title or separate form |
| Inspection Certificate | Proof of passing NYS safety and emissions inspection | Inspection station |
Transfer Registration Documents
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Current Registration | Proves existing registration |
| Title or Registration | From vehicle with plates being transferred |
| Form MV-82 | Registration application |
| Proof of Insurance (FS-20) | For new vehicle |
| Payment | For transfer fee and any fee differences |
Out-of-State Transfer Documents
| Document | Why It’s Needed |
|---|---|
| Out-of-State Title | Proves ownership from previous state |
| Form DTF-803 | Sales tax exemption if paid in another state |
| Proof of Residency | Utility bill or lease agreement showing NY address |
| NYS Inspection | Must complete within 10 days of registration |
DMV Registration Process Steps
Follow this step-by-step process for successful vehicle registration:
Process Overview
| Step | Action | Timeline | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Get Insurance | Purchase NYS auto insurance | 1-2 days before DMV visit | Varies by insurer |
| 2. Vehicle Inspection | Complete safety and emissions inspection | Before or within 10 days of registration | $10-$37 (inspection fee) |
| 3. Gather Documents | Collect all required paperwork | 2-3 days before appointment | Free (forms) |
| 4. Book DMV Appointment | Schedule online or by phone | 2-6 weeks in advance | Free |
| 5. Visit DMV | Submit documents and pay fees | Appointment day | Use calculator estimate |
| 6. Receive Plates | Get temporary registration and plates | Same day | Included in fees |
Detailed Registration Steps
Step 1: Obtain NYS Auto Insurance
Contact insurance companies licensed in New York and provide your VIN, vehicle details, and driver information. Your insurer will electronically file the FS-20 form with the DMV, and you’ll receive your insurance identification card. Make sure to verify the electronic filing is completed 2-3 days before your DMV visit to avoid delays.
Step 2: Complete Vehicle Inspection
Locate a certified inspection station by looking for the yellow and black “Official Inspection Station” sign. Bring your vehicle title and insurance proof, then pass the required safety inspection covering brakes, lights, tires, and other components. If applicable in your county, you’ll also need to pass emissions inspection. For out-of-state transfers, you have 10 days after registration to complete this step.
Step 3: Complete Required Forms
Download Form MV-82 from the DMV website and fill it out completely with your vehicle and owner information. Make sure all details match your title and insurance documents exactly. Complete Form DTF-802 for sales tax if you’re doing a private sale, or Form DTF-803 if you’re claiming a tax exemption. Double-check that the VIN matches on all forms to prevent rejection.
Step 4: Book Your DMV Appointment
Visit the DMV website or call the appointment line to schedule your visit. Select a location near you, keeping in mind that appointments are required in NYC, Long Island, Westchester, and Albany areas. Choose an available date, which is typically 2-6 weeks out, and arrive 10-15 minutes early on your appointment day with your confirmation.
Step 5: Visit DMV Office
Bring all documents in original form (no copies accepted). Submit your completed forms at the registration counter where the DMV clerk will verify your documents and VIN. Pay all fees using cash, check, or card, then receive your temporary registration valid for 30 days and your license plates immediately.
Step 6: Display Plates and Wait for Title
Install your plates on the vehicle front and rear (or rear only for some vehicles). Keep your temporary registration in the vehicle while waiting for your official title to arrive by mail within 2-4 weeks. Your permanent registration card will be mailed separately.
MCTD Counties List
These 12 counties charge the additional $50 MCTD supplemental fee (2-year period):
| County | Borough/Area | MCTD Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Bronx | NYC Borough | $50.00 |
| Kings | Brooklyn | $50.00 |
| New York | Manhattan | $50.00 |
| Queens | NYC Borough | $50.00 |
| Richmond | Staten Island | $50.00 |
| Dutchess | Hudson Valley | $50.00 |
| Nassau | Long Island | $50.00 |
| Orange | Hudson Valley | $50.00 |
| Putnam | Hudson Valley | $50.00 |
| Rockland | Lower Hudson Valley | $50.00 |
| Suffolk | Long Island | $50.00 |
| Westchester | Lower Hudson Valley | $50.00 |
Cost Comparison Examples
Use these examples to understand how different factors affect your total registration costs:
Example 1: Light Passenger Car in Non-MCTD County
| Fee Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Registration (2,800 lbs) | $47.00 |
| Vehicle Plate Fee | $25.00 |
| Title Certificate | $50.00 |
| County Use Tax (under 3,500 lbs) | $10.00 |
| Sales Tax ($20,000 × 8%) | $1,600.00 |
| Total | $1,732.00 |
Example 2: Heavy SUV in MCTD County
| Fee Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Registration (5,500 lbs) | $105.00 |
| Vehicle Plate Fee | $25.00 |
| Title Certificate | $50.00 |
| County Use Tax (over 3,500 lbs) | $60.00 |
| MCTD Supplemental Fee | $50.00 |
| Sales Tax ($45,000 × 8.875%) | $3,993.75 |
| Total | $4,283.75 |
Example 3: Motorcycle Registration
| Fee Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Registration (All weights) | $32.50 |
| Motorcycle Plate Fee | $10.50 |
| Title Certificate | $50.00 |
| County Use Tax | $10.00 |
| Sales Tax ($8,000 × 8%) | $640.00 |
| Total | $743.00 |
Example 4: Transfer Plates (No New Purchase)
| Fee Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Registration (New vehicle 4,200 lbs) | $73.50 |
| Transfer Fee | $10.00 |
| MCTD Fee (if applicable) | $50.00 |
| Total | $133.50 |
Calculator Fields Reference
Input Fields Summary
| Field Name | Type | Options/Format | Required | Default |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Dropdown | Passenger, Motorcycle, Commercial, Trailer | Yes | None |
| Weight | Number | Pounds (e.g., 3500) | Yes | None |
| Fuel Type | Dropdown | Gas, Diesel, Electric, Hybrid, CNG, Propane, Other, None | Yes | Gas |
| Cylinders | Dropdown | 4 or fewer, More than 4, None | Yes | 4 or fewer |
| County | Dropdown | 62 counties + Out-of-state | Yes | None |
| Lien Status | Radio | None, Electronic, Dealer Filed | Yes | None |
| Number of Liens | Number | 1-5 | Conditional | 1 |
| Registration Action | Radio Cards | Original, Transfer Plates, Transfer + New Plates | Yes | Original |
| Purchase Price | Number | Dollar amount | Conditional | None |
| Old Vehicle Weight | Number | Pounds | Conditional | None |
| Old Vehicle Class | Dropdown | Passenger, Motorcycle, Commercial, Trailer | Conditional | Passenger |
Output Display
| Display Element | Shows |
|---|---|
| Total Estimated Cost | Sum of all applicable fees and taxes |
| Registration Fee | 2-year registration fee based on vehicle specifications |
| Sales Tax | Calculated tax based on purchase price and county |
| Fee Breakdown Table | Itemized list of every fee component |
| Total Due | Final amount due at DMV (same as total estimated cost) |
FAQs
How long is the registration valid?
All fees shown by the calculator cover a 2-year registration period. You’ll need to renew every two years at similar costs, though you won’t pay title and plate fees again unless you need replacements.
Can I register online?
Initial registrations require in-person DMV visits. However, when your registration expires in two years, you can often complete renewals online through the DMV website, which is much more convenient.
What payment methods does DMV accept?
Most DMV offices accept cash, personal checks, money orders, and credit or debit cards. Some locations charge convenience fees for card payments, so it’s worth calling ahead to ask about this.
What if my vehicle weighs between two ranges?
The calculator automatically places your vehicle in the correct weight tier. For example, if your car weighs 3,051 lbs, it falls in the 3,051-3,150 range which has a $50.00 fee. You don’t need to worry about rounding up or down.
Do I pay sales tax when transferring plates?
Sales tax applies only when you’re actually purchasing a vehicle, regardless of whether you transfer plates or get new registration. If you already own the vehicle and are just moving plates, you won’t pay sales tax again.
How accurate is this calculator?
The calculator uses official DMV fee schedules that are current as of January 2026. Actual fees at the DMV office might vary by around $5-$20 due to recent legislation changes or small administrative fees that weren’t included in the base schedules.
What if I’m from out of state?
Select your new NYS county in the calculator and you’ll pay all the standard registration fees. One important thing to remember is that you must complete a NYS inspection within 10 days of registering your vehicle, so factor that into your timeline.
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