What You Need to Title and Register a Vehicle in Mississippi

Mississippi requires you to obtain a title and register any vehicle you own before driving it on public roads. The Mississippi Department of Revenue handles both processes, and you'll need to complete them in a specific order: title first, then registration. You cannot register a vehicle without a title in place.

The title proves you own the vehicle. Registration gives you a license plate and sticker that show the state you're registered in. Both documents have expiration dates and renewal requirements. If you're buying from a dealer, the dealer typically handles the title transfer. If you're buying privately, you handle it yourself.

Key Takeaways

  • Mississippi titles and registrations are handled by the Department of Revenue, and you must title a vehicle before you can register it.
  • A private sale requires the seller's signature on the title, a bill of sale, and proof of inspection before you can title it in your name.
  • Registration stickers expire annually on your birthday month, and you renew by mail, online, or in person at a county assessor's office.
  • Out-of-state titles require a transfer process and proof that any lien has been satisfied before Mississippi will issue a new title.
  • Dealer purchases are faster because the dealer files the paperwork, but you still need to pick up your plates and sticker within a set timeframe.

Documents You Need for a Private Sale Title Transfer

If you're buying a vehicle from a private seller in Mississippi, you'll need the seller's signature on the back of the title in the designated box. The title must be signed in front of a notary public or an authorized agent at a county assessor's office. You cannot sign it yourself and have it notarized later—the seller must be present.

You also need a bill of sale, which is a written record of the sale. Mississippi does not have a required form, but you can use the Form 78-001 (process for Title), which includes space for sale details. The bill of sale should include the vehicle identification number (VIN), the sale price, the date, and both signatures. Keep a copy for your records.

Before you can title the vehicle, you must have a vehicle inspection completed by an authorized Mississippi inspection station. This confirms the VIN matches the vehicle and that it's roadworthy. The inspection costs vary by station but typically runs $15 to $25. You'll receive an inspection report to submit with your title process.

how the process works for a Mississippi Title

Once you have the signed title, bill of sale, and inspection report, you submit them to your county assessor's office. You can also mail them to the Department of Revenue's title section, though in-person submission is faster. Include a completed Form 78-001 (process for Title) with your documents.

If there is a lien on the vehicle (meaning a lender has a claim to it), you need proof that the lien has been satisfied. This is usually a lien release letter from the lender. If the lien is not released, Mississippi will issue the title with the lender's name on it, and you won't own it outright until the lien is paid off.

Processing takes 5 to 10 business days if you submit in person at the assessor's office. Mail submissions take longer, typically 2 to 3 weeks. You'll receive the new title by mail at the address you provide on the process. Once you have the title, you can proceed to registration.

Registering Your Vehicle and Getting Plates

Registration is separate from titling. Once your title arrives, take it to your county assessor's office along with proof of insurance. Mississippi requires all registered vehicles to carry liability insurance. You'll need the declarations page from your insurance policy, which shows your coverage dates and limits.

Fill out Form 78-002 (process for Registration) at the assessor's office. You'll pay the registration fee, which varies by vehicle weight and type. For most passenger cars, the fee is between $20 and $35 annually. You'll receive license plates and a registration sticker on the spot or by mail, depending on the office.

Your registration sticker expires on the last day of your birthday month each year. You renew by returning to the assessor's office, paying the renewal fee, and receiving a new sticker. You can also renew online through the Department of Revenue website or by mail if you prefer not to visit in person.

Transferring a Title from Out of State

If you're moving to Mississippi with a vehicle titled in another state, you have 30 days to transfer the title to Mississippi. Bring your out-of-state title, proof of inspection, and a completed Form 78-001 to your county assessor's office. If the out-of-state title has a lien, you'll need proof that it's been satisfied or transferred to a Mississippi lender.

Some states issue titles differently—some are electronic, some require notarization, and some have different lien notation formats. Call your county assessor's office before you visit to confirm they have everything they need. Processing an out-of-state transfer usually takes the same 5 to 10 business days as a new title.

You cannot register the vehicle under your Mississippi address until the title transfer is complete. If you're moving and need to register quickly, plan to visit the assessor's office as soon as you arrive.

Dealer Purchases and Temporary Tags

When you buy from a Mississippi dealer, the dealer files the title and registration paperwork on your behalf. You'll sign the title process at the dealership, and the dealer submits it to the Department of Revenue. The dealer also orders your plates and sticker.

You'll receive a temporary tag (usually valid for 30 days) that allows you to drive the vehicle while the permanent plates are being made. Keep the temporary tag visible on your windshield. Once your permanent plates arrive, the dealer will contact you to pick them up, or they may mail them to you depending on the dealership's process.

Even though the dealer handles the paperwork, you're responsible for providing proof of insurance before the registration is finalized. The dealer will ask for your insurance information at the time of purchase. If you don't have insurance yet, arrange it before you leave the lot.

Renewing Your Registration

Your registration renewal notice arrives by mail about 30 days before your sticker expires. The notice includes the renewal fee and instructions for renewing online, by mail, or in person. You can renew online through the Department of Revenue website if you have your current registration number and vehicle information.

If you renew by mail, send the renewal notice with your payment to the address listed on the notice. If you renew in person, visit your county assessor's office with your current registration and proof of insurance. Processing takes a few days by mail or is when ready in person.

If your registration expires before you renew, you cannot legally drive the vehicle on public roads. Driving with an expired registration can result in a traffic citation. If you miss the important date, you can still renew at the assessor's office, but you may face a late fee depending on how long it's been expired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I register a vehicle without a title?

No. Mississippi requires a title before registration. If you don't have a title yet, you must obtain one first. For a private purchase, this means getting the seller's signature notarized and submitting an inspection report. For a dealer purchase, the dealer files the title paperwork, but registration cannot proceed until the title is issued.

What if the seller won't sign the title?

The seller must sign the title for you to own the vehicle legally. If the seller refuses, you don't have a valid purchase. Do not give money until the title is signed and notarized. If you've already paid and the seller won't cooperate, contact a lawyer about your options.

How much does it cost to title and register a vehicle in Mississippi?

Title fees vary by vehicle type and weight but typically range from $15 to $30. Registration fees for passenger cars are usually $20 to $35 annually. Inspection costs $15 to $25. Notarization for the title signature costs $5 to $15. Total cost for a new title and first-year registration is usually $60 to $100.

What happens if I buy a vehicle with an outstanding loan?

The lender's name will appear on the title as a lienholder. You own the vehicle but cannot sell it without the lender's permission until the loan is paid off. When you pay off the loan, the lender sends a lien release letter. You then take that letter to the assessor's office to have the lender's name removed from the title.

Can I renew my registration online?

Yes. The Mississippi Department of Revenue website allows online renewal if your registration is current and you have your registration number. You'll need proof of insurance to complete the renewal. Online renewal takes a few business days to process, and your new sticker arrives by mail.