Initial Registration

Effective January 1, 2027, Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-4-144 requires applicants seeking initial registrations for certain motor vehicles to provide documentation that the applicant is a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident of the United States, or a person whose presence in the United States has been authorized by the federal government for a specific purpose and for a specified period of authorized stay.

Acceptable Documentation for Initial Vehicle Registrations

In addition to the documentation above, proof of residency and identification is required to register a vehicle.

Acceptable Forms of Identification and Residency

Requirements may also differ for new residents versus current residents of Tennessee.

Current Residents

To register your new vehicle, you will need to submit to your local county clerk the following:

Manufacturer's Statement of Origin
New Vehicle Invoice
Copy of your current registration if transferring your license plate

To register a used vehicle, submit to your resident county clerk the following:

Valid certificate of title properly assigned along with an Odometer Disclosure Statement, if applicable
Copy of the current registration if transferring your license plate

Please note that Applications for Registration are only processed through your local county clerk.

New Residents

Someone moving from another state must file an application for certificate of title and registration through their local county clerk.

Please take with you the most current out-of-state registration and the name and address of the company where you are sending car payments (if applicable).

If you do not have that information, you must furnish your out-of-state title. If you need a new title, visit Vehicle Titling (New Residents or Those Relocating) for additional information.