Buying and Selling FAQs

I just saw a car I'd like to buy, but it's not in New Jersey. What's the process for bringing it here?

You'll need to visit your local Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) Agency and apply for a New Jersey registration and title. Be sure to bring the current title (signed over to you) or the manufacturer's certificate of origin, as well as the bill of sale, a current odometer reading, and the Vehicle Identification Number.

My buddy just bought a cool car from Italy. Is it difficult to import a car?

Well, it's a little more difficult than going down to the corner lot, but if you do your research and keep tabs on all the paperwork involved, it shouldn't be too bad. First, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to get all the basics. Then, call the central MVC office in New Jersey (not your local office) at (609) 292-6500 or (888) 486-3339 to get specific information about your particular vehicle, and the requirements for where you live.

I've found a car in New Jersey, but I live in Delaware. Can I get a tag for it to get back home?

Sure. You'll need to get a 20-day temporary registration at any MVC Agency. Bring your current title (signed over to you), proof of your current address, and proof of insurance. The fee is $5.

How much will I pay in registration fees for my new car?

The New Jersey MVC has a detailed list of fees on its Web site to help you determine the amount you'll pay when registering and titling your vehicle.

I just heard about low-speed vehicles and am researching buying one. Is registration different for this kind of vehicle?

Low-speed vehicles (LSVs) are exempt from inspections and don't have to pay sales tax. The state has an entire list of guidelines for owners of LSVs.

What is the Accelerated Registration Program?

Since 2004, New Jersey residents who buy new passenger vehicles (motorcycles are not included) are required to register their vehicles for four years at a time, paying the full fees for all four years. No refunds are given for partial use if you choose to sell your vehicle before the four years have passed. You are allowed to transfer the registration to another vehicle as long as the ownership remains the same. The transfer fee is $4.50.

I'll be buying my first car soon, but I don't even know where to begin researching to get the best deal. Can you help me?

Sure. The Internet and your local newspapers are great sources to learn about cars and their ratings, reliability, and prices. Check out such Web sites as AutoTrader.com, Cars.com, Usedcars.com and Kelley Blue Book. You'll also want to read DMV.ORG's Buying and Selling Guide for tips on getting exactly what you want and need in a car for the price you want to pay.

I really want to buy a hybrid car, but they're expensive. Will the government give me any kind of break?

Yes. If you bought a hybrid car that you started using after December 31, 2005, or if you buy one before December 31, 2010, you qualify for this credit. This means that if you bought a car before December 31, 2005, but didn't start using it until after that date, you still qualify. Likewise, if you wait until December 31, 2010, to buy your hybrid but don't take delivery until after that date, you will qualify. You must be the original owner of the car.

The amount of the credit varies according to the type of car and year it was purchased. Amounts vary from $250 to over $3,000. See the above link for more details and forms.

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