Unit 3: Owning a Vehicle — Registration, Title & Inspection
A registration allows a vehicle to be driven on public roads and highways. A title certificate proves who owns the vehicle. You must be at least 16 to register a vehicle (you can title a vehicle at any age). A new resident must get a NY registration within 30 days of establishing residence.
Your vehicle must be covered by liability insurance for as long as it is registered, even if you don't drive it. Minimum liability coverage required in New York:
Most registrations are renewed every two years, based on vehicle weight (for vehicles up to 18,000 lbs). You should receive a renewal reminder in the mail about 45 to 60 days before expiration — but you are responsible for renewing on time even without a reminder. If the expiration date falls on a weekend or legal holiday, the registration is automatically extended to midnight of the next business day (insurance must still be maintained).
Most vehicles sold in NY must be inspected within 30 days of the date of transfer/sale, with a certificate of inspection before delivery. If you buy from someone who is not a NYS dealer, you must have the vehicle inspected within 10 days after you register it. After the first inspection, the vehicle must be re-inspected annually before the current certificate expires (also required on change of registrant). Tires must have at least 2/32 of an inch of tread.