Registering a vehicle in Colorado requires an in-person visit to your county’s local Motor Vehicle (DMV) office. If you are not a Denver County resident, please visit the Colorado State DMV website to locate your branch office.
To minimize wait times and ensure same-day service at the counter, please come prepared with the following documents:
☑️ New owner’s identification (secure and verifiable) or Power of Attorney.
Anyone other than the named owner must present a completed and notarized Form DR2175 Power of Attorney and their identification (secure and verifiable).
☑️ Vehicle title certificate.
The vehicle title certificate must be properly endorsed and signed by the previous owner. The previous owner must sign the title and remove the license plates, per Colorado State Law. If plates are left on the vehicle when transferring to the new owner, the seller may be held liable for traffic tickets and other legal issues associated with the plates.
☑️ Bill of sale.
A bill of sale is recommended but not mandatory unless there’s a change in the purchase price or date of purchase listed on the title certificate.
Vehicle purchasers must register the vehicle within 60 days of purchase. Before purchasing a vehicle from a private party, check the front of the title carefully to ensure there are no lien holders on the front of the title and it’s properly signed by the seller.
☑️ Emissions inspection certificate.
When you purchase a vehicle through a private party or receive a vehicle through family inheritance or as a gift, you must obtain a new emissions inspection, even if the current inspection report is still valid.
☑️ Odometer reading.
If you are registering the vehicle and transferring ownership into your name, you must provide the current and accurate odometer reading. For vehicles older than 10 years, an odometer reading is not required.
☑️ Proof of auto insurance.
An insurance card, a copy of your insurance policy, or correspondence from your insurance company on company letterhead including the vehicle description with the following information: year, make, model, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), effective date, and expiration date of the policy.
☑️ Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) verification.
VIN verification is required if the seller has an out-of-state title or the vehicle was purchased outside of Colorado. A VIN inspector must complete the Vehicle Identification Number Verification form (DR 2698 from the Colorado Department of Revenue).
☑️ License plates.
When purchasing a vehicle from a private party, per Colorado State Law, the seller must retain their license plates. Learn more about obtaining temporary tags or how to operate a vehicle before registration. You will need to apply for new license plates when you register your vehicle.
☑️ Payment.
Learn more about title and registration fees so you arrive at our office prepared. Also, see the fees for special and personalized plates. For trucks weighing between 4501 lbs and 10,000 lbs AND coming from out of state, a Certified Weight Slip or a copy of the Manufacturer’s Certificate/Statement of Origin (MSO) is required.
