In order to register a vehicle in Tennessee, you need a Tennessee address, and proof that you reside there.
If you do not want to obtain residency in the United States, we recommend starting your visit in another state, or using visitor.us' services to register a vehicle that you buy in Tennessee.
Tennessee's vehicle registrations are handled by its counties.
If you buy your vehicle from a Tennessee dealer, it will issue you a 30-day temporary registration.
Whether you're buying a vehicle from a private party or a dealer, and are planning to register it in Tennessee, bring the required items (below) to the county clerk's office of the address where you'll register your vehicle.
For vehicles being registered in Tennessee, Tennessee sales taxes are payable to the dealer upon sale, or the county clerk upon registration (if purchased from a private party).
Fee: $116.50
Fee: $21.50
Fee: $116.50
The vehicle's title must be signed by the owner(s) printed on the title, its odometer reading recorded (if less than 10 years in age), and be free of all liens in order for the prior owner's interest to be released.
A current, government-issued photo ID is required to register a vehicle in Tennessee.
A bill of sale is not required to register a vehicle in Tennessee, although signing one with the vehicle's seller is recommended.
An annual emissions inspection is required for vehicles from 1975 or later in the following counties: Hamilton, Davidson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, and Wilson.
Safety inspections are not required in Tennessee.
VIN inspections are not required in Tennessee.
Tennessee's minimum liability insurance limits are 25/50/15.
People wishing to register a vehicle in Tennessee must provide proof that they reside at the registration address.
Vehicles registered in Tennessee must be registered to a Tennessee address.