Fees & penalties from late vehicle registrations top $60M in GA
ATLANTA - If you're new to Georgia, welcome! As you're unpacking boxes though, you may find yourself surprised by all the steps it takes to get your vehicle settled here. It can be overwhelming and the fees and penalties can add up if you're not on time.
If you are already a Georgia resident, this is what you need for a tag renewal:
- -Valid license or ID
- -Proof of insurance
- -Vehicle emissions inspection
- -Proper fees
If you're new to Georgia, this is what you need to apply for a Georgia tag:
- -Valid license
- -Georgia title (you have 30 days to apply for one, once you establish residency)
- -Registration
Most counties require you to register a vehicle in person. This is what you'll need to bring:
- -Valid new license or ID
- -Tag and title application (you can print in advance or fill out in person)
- -Proof of ownership, loan or lease
- -Proof of insurance
- -Vehicle emissions inspection (this is for vehicles made between 1993 and 2014, for the 13 counties in the metro area that require one)
- -Proper fees
- -Taxes (you may owe an annual "Ad Valorem Tax," or you may have to pay a one-time fair market value "Title Ad Valorem Tax," depending on when your vehicle was purchased)
- According to CARFAX, in Georgia, 1 out of every 20 vehicles doesn't get its registration renewed on time.
"The added penalties and fees that you're going to pay, if you don't remember to get your car registered on time, can really add up to the tune of everybody paying up to 60 million dollars in added costs in the state of Georgia just by not registering your vehicle," says CARFAX spokesperson Chris Basso.
If you are renewing, keep in mind most people can take care of it online or at one of the self-service center kiosks located in 13 Georgia counties. CARFAX also has a free app, called MyCARFAX where you can add your vehicle and keep up to date on important reminders like registration, routine services, and recalls.
Need a Georgia Tag Renewal? More information here: https://mvd.dor.ga.gov/tags/
New to Georgia? More information here: https://dor.georgia.gov/new-georgia