Moving to a new state can be challenging. There is so much paperwork and it can seem like you hit roadblock after roadblock. That is why we wanted to provide a step-by-step guide on how to transfer your license plate, your driver’s license and get car insurance in Pennsylvania. We have been contacted by many people who are exhausted with the process of making their vehicle legal to drive in Pennsylvania.
Steps To Transfering Your License Plate For A PA License Plate
Follow the steps below to transfer your license plate, acquire a Pennsylvania license and set up your PA
Step 1: Establish Residency In Pennsylvania
Before initiating the license plate transfer process, make sure you are a Pennsylvania resident. You must have a valid Pennsylvania address and be living in the state to complete this procedure.
Step 2: Obtain A Pennsylvania Driver’s License
You must have a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license or a non-driver identification card. In order to brain a PA driver’s license you must do the following:
- Bring Proof Of Id: A valid out-of-state license or your Social Security card would be the best form of id.
- Visit PennDOT Office where you will complete a DL-180R form. This can be filled out in person or online.
- Pass A Vision Test At The DOT Office: If you use glasses or need prescription contacts to drive be sure to bring them with to pass the vision test.
- Surrender Your Out Of State License: You cannot keep your out-of-state license when receiving your PA driver’s license.
- Pay For License Transfer: The cost of a license transfer fee changes regularly so be prepared with multiple forms of payment.
Step 3: Valid Out-of-State Vehicle Title
Ensure that you possess the original title of your vehicle from the previous state. This title is to prove your ownership of the vehicle.
If you do not have the out-of-state title because of a lien on the vehicle or you are still leasing the vehicle, you can request for the title from your lienholder or lender. You will need the following information from the lien holder or lender
Step 4: Vehicle Inspection Certificate
Visit a Pennsylvania-licensed inspection location to have your car examined. For your license plate to be transferred, you must have the vehicle inspected in Pennsylvania. This is because there are different emissions and standards in different locations throughout the United States and even throughout regions of Pennsylvania.
Step 5: Proof of Vehicle Insurance
Pennsylvania requires all vehicles to be insured. Provide proof of your existing Pennsylvania auto insurance coverage to continue the registration process. The name on the insurance must be one of the owner’s names that is on the title. You can acquire your auto insurance with Strickler Insurance. We would love to help you through your process of moving to Pennsylvania. We can insure your car and home.
The importance of having motor insurance while changing your out-of-state license plate to Pennsylvania cannot be emphasized enough. Not only is it required by law to have insurance, but it also protects your financial security and the safety of other drivers.
Step 6: Complete the MV-1 Form
Download and fill out the MV-1 Application for Certificate of Title/Registration form. This document is available on the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) website. Give accurate information about your car, your insurance coverage at the time, and yourself.
Step 7: Visit a PennDOT Office
Locate a nearby PennDOT office and visit in person to submit your MV-1 form along with the required documents. At the office, you’ll need to pay the necessary fees associated with the license plate transfer.
Step 8: Receive Your New Pennsylvania License Plate
Once your application is processed and approved, you will be issued a new Pennsylvania license plate. Remove your out-of-state plate from your vehicle and replace it with the new Pennsylvania plate.
Transferring Your License Plate To Pennsylvania
When you have all the necessary paperwork and follow the instructions precisely, changing your out-of-state license plate to a Pennsylvania license plate is a simple procedure. To drive safely and legally, be careful to adhere to Pennsylvania’s auto insurance laws. You may have a seamless transition and safe driving experiences in the Keystone State by finishing the transfer process and having enough insurance.
