what do i need to register my car in nh

To register your car in New Hampshire, you generally need to follow these steps and provide the following documents:

Basic Requirements

• Go to your town or city clerk's office to start the registration process and establish residency

• Provide proof of residency, which can include:
  • A current New Hampshire driver's license or out-of-state driver's license
  • Plus one of the following: a utility bill, rent/lease or mortgage agreement, or a note from a landlord/parent with a piece of mail addressed to you at that address

• Present a valid photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or military ID

Vehicle Documents

• For vehicles model year 2000 or newer:
  • The original Certificate of Title signed over to you, or
  • The original Certificate of Origin signed over to you, or
  • The Town Clerk's copy of the Certificate of Title Application (CTA) provided by the dealer

• For vehicles model year 1999 or older:
  • A bill of sale signed by both buyer and seller, plus one of the following:
    • The prior owner's NH registration (out-of-state registration not accepted),
    • A valid NH or out-of-state title,
    • A VIN verification form (Form 19A) completed by an authorized agency like law enforcement or a NH dealer

• If you are transferring plates from another vehicle registered in your name, bring the registration for that vehicle

Additional Requirements for New Residents

• New residents must obtain a NH driver's license and register their vehicle within 60 days of moving to the state

• If your vehicle is financed and the title is held by a lienholder, you may need additional paperwork from the lienholder or a title application prepared by them

Fees

• You will pay a motor vehicle permit fee based on the original manufacturer’s price of the vehicle and a state registration fee based on vehicle weight at the town clerk's office

Summary Checklist

• Valid photo ID (NH or out-of-state driver's license)
• Proof of residency (utility bill, lease, mortgage, or similar)
• Vehicle title or Certificate of Origin (for newer vehicles)
• Bill of sale and prior registration or title (for older vehicles)
• Completed VIN verification form if required (for older vehicles)
• Payment for registration fees

This process is done in person at your local town or city clerk's office