Pennsylvania Vehicle Auto Tag & Registration Guide for New Residents

Moving to Pennsylvania is exciting — but before you hit the road, there’s one important thing to handle: registering your vehicle and getting PA license plates. If you’ve recently moved from another state, here’s a simple step-by-step guide to make the process smooth.

1️⃣ Establish Residency
Before registering, you need to be a Pennsylvania resident. You’re considered a resident if you:

• Have a permanent Pennsylvania address

Once you meet any of these, you can start the registration process.

2️⃣ Get a Pennsylvania Driver’s License

Before registering your vehicle, apply for a PA driver’s license through the PennDOT Driver License Center. You’ll need your out-of-state license when applying and proof of your current address in Pennsylvania.

3️⃣ Get Pennsylvania Auto Insurance

Pennsylvania law requires all vehicles to be covered by a valid PA auto insurance policy before registration.
You’ll need to show proof of insurance — either an insurance ID card or a copy of your policy with your PA address.

💡 Tip: If you’re new to the state, Mars Tag & Insurance can help you get an affordable PA-compliant policy quickly, often on the same day.

4️⃣ Gather the Required Documents

When you come to a PA tag and title agency (like Mars Tag & Insurance), bring:

• Out-of-state vehicle title
• Valid PA driver’s license or PA ID
• Proof of PA insurance
• Current odometer reading
• Payment for taxes, title, and registration fees

If there’s a lien on your vehicle, you’ll also need the lienholder information so we can request the title on your behalf.

5️⃣ Complete the Registration & Title Transfer

At Mars Tag & Insurance, we handle everything — from your title transfer to your new PA registration and plates. You’ll leave with your new Pennsylvania tags the same day in most cases.

6️⃣ Don’t Forget: Safety & Emissions Inspection

Once your vehicle is registered, you’ll need to complete:

• Safety inspection (required annually)
• Emissions test 

You usually have 10 days after registration to get these done.

✅ Final Thoughts
Moving can be stressful — but getting your car legal in Pennsylvania doesn’t have to be. At Mars Tag & Insurance Agency, we help new residents handle auto tag, registration, title transfer, and insurance all in one visit.
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Stop by our office in Philadelphia, and we’ll make sure you’re fully set up to drive with peace of mind.