Car Title vs. Registration

When you’re buying a new or used vehicle, you’ll want to have all documents in order to drive your purchase legally. Both first-time car buyers and drivers who have used the same vehicle for years often forget the difference between two of the most important forms — the car title and the registration.

In this guide, we will explain the differences between titles vs. registrations and why they’re both necessary.

Is a Car Title and Registration the Same Thing?

Titles and registrations are different entities. One shows proof of ownership and the other signifies your vehicle is linked to a specific state and is approved to drive on public road systems.

United States residents can get both documents from a department of motor vehicles (DMV).

What Is a Car Title and Why Do I Need One?

Your car’s title is created to show vehicle ownership. The document displays information about you and the vehicle, including the make, model, year and a report of any accidents. Your vehicle’s title will mention whether or not the vehicle has ever been totaled or labeled as a total loss post-collision or -theft.

Anytime a car, truck or SUV is sold, the title must be issued to the new owner. This calls for a transfer of ownership form to be filed with a regional DMV. Drivers who take out a loan to pay for a car will be given the car title once the vehicle is paid off. The lienholder’s name is removed from the document at this time.

What Is a Car Registration?

A car’s registration proves you’ve registered the vehicle in your state and paid the necessary taxes and fees. The certificate, which may come in card or document form, contains information like the vehicle identification number, who it’s registered under and their information, and the registration number.

Most states call for you to renew your vehicle registration annually, but some allow renewal every few years. Additionally, select states make it mandatory for your vehicle to pass a safety and emissions inspection before you can renew the registration. Driving a vehicle without an active registration can lead to hefty fines or jail time.

Choose RefiJet for Automotive Refinancing Services

Now that you know the differences between car titles and registrations, you can focus on areas such as saving yourself time and money by partnering with a trustworthy source for vehicle refinancing services. RefiJet is committed to providing solutions that lower your monthly payment or the interest rate on your current loan. Explore your options for refinancing online and get in touch with our team for further assistance.