How To Register A Gifted Car In Indiana?

Do you have a gifted car that you want to register in Indiana? Registering a gifted car in Indiana is a simple process, but there are a few steps you need to follow to ensure that you do it correctly. In this article, we will walk you through the steps that you need to take to register your gifted car in Indiana. Whether you are a new resident or have been living in Indiana for years, this guide will help you navigate the process with ease. So, let’s get started!

How to Register a Gifted Car in Indiana?

If you’ve received a car as a gift in Indiana, you’ll need to register it in your name before you can legally drive it. The process of registering a gifted car in Indiana involves a few steps, but it’s not too difficult if you know what to do. In this article, we’ll outline the steps you’ll need to take to register your gifted car in Indiana.

Step 1: Obtain the Vehicle Title

The first step in registering a gifted car in Indiana is to obtain the vehicle title. The person who gave you the car should have signed over the title to you. If they have not yet done so, you’ll need to ask them to sign the title over to you. Once you have the title in your possession, you can move on to the next step.

Benefits of obtaining the vehicle title

Having the vehicle title in your name is important because it proves that you are the legal owner of the car. Without the title, you won’t be able to register the car in your name or sell it later on.

Step 2: Get a Vehicle Inspection

Before you can register your gifted car in Indiana, you’ll need to get a vehicle inspection. This inspection is meant to ensure that the car is safe to drive and meets certain emissions standards.

Benefits of getting a vehicle inspection

Getting a vehicle inspection can give you peace of mind knowing that the car you are driving is safe and roadworthy. It can also help you avoid potential problems down the line.

Step 3: Complete the Vehicle Registration Application

Once you have the title and have passed the vehicle inspection, you’ll need to complete the vehicle registration application. This application can be obtained from your local Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office.

Benefits of completing the vehicle registration application

Completing the vehicle registration application is necessary if you want to legally drive your gifted car in Indiana. It’s important to make sure that all the information on the application is accurate and up-to-date.

Step 4: Pay the Registration Fees

After you’ve completed the vehicle registration application, you’ll need to pay the registration fees. The fees will vary depending on the type of car you have and the length of time for which you are registering it.

Benefits of paying the registration fees

Paying the registration fees is necessary if you want to legally drive your gifted car in Indiana. The fees go towards maintaining the state’s roads and highways.

Step 5: Get Your License Plates

Once you’ve completed all the necessary steps and paid the registration fees, you’ll be given your license plates. These plates must be affixed to your car before you can legally drive it on Indiana roads.

Benefits of getting your license plates

Having your license plates is necessary if you want to legally drive your gifted car in Indiana. It’s important to make sure that your plates are securely attached to your car and that they are visible from a distance.

Step 6: Get Car Insurance

Finally, before you can legally drive your gifted car in Indiana, you’ll need to get car insurance. This insurance will protect you and your car in the event of an accident or other mishap.

Benefits of getting car insurance

Getting car insurance is not only necessary, but it can also give you peace of mind knowing that you are protected in case something goes wrong. It can also help you avoid potential legal and financial problems down the line.

Conclusion

Registering a gifted car in Indiana may seem daunting, but it’s not too difficult if you know what to do. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can make sure that your gifted car is legally registered in your name and that you are able to drive it on Indiana roads with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Registering a gifted car in Indiana can be a bit confusing. Here are some common questions and answers to help you through the process.

1. What documents do I need to register a gifted car?

When registering a gifted car in Indiana, you will need to provide a few key documents. These include the car’s title, a completed Application for Certificate of Title, and proof of insurance. Additionally, you will need to present a completed Sales Tax Exemption Form 125, which can be obtained from the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).

If the car was gifted to you by a family member, you will also need to provide a Family Gift Affidavit. This document confirms that the transfer of ownership was a gift and not a sale, and can also be obtained from the BMV.

2. Do I need to pay sales tax on a gifted car?

In Indiana, you are generally required to pay sales tax when you purchase a car. However, if the car was gifted to you by a family member, you may be eligible for a sales tax exemption. To claim this exemption, you will need to complete Form 125 and submit it to the BMV along with your other registration documents.

It’s worth noting that if the car was gifted to you by a non-family member, you will not be eligible for the sales tax exemption and will need to pay sales tax on the car’s fair market value.

3. How much does it cost to register a gifted car in Indiana?

The cost to register a gifted car in Indiana varies depending on a few factors. These include the car’s age, weight, and value. Additionally, you may need to pay fees for titling, registration, and plates. As of 2021, the minimum fee for registering a car in Indiana is $21.35, while the maximum fee is $100. However, fees can vary depending on your specific situation.

It’s a good idea to contact the BMV for an estimate of the total cost to register your gifted car, as fees and taxes can be complex and vary by county.

4. Can I register a gifted car online?

Yes, you can register a gifted car online in Indiana. To do so, you will need to visit the BMV’s website and follow the prompts to register your car. You will need to provide the necessary documents and pay any fees online using a credit or debit card.

Alternatively, you can register your gifted car in person at a BMV branch. This may be a good option if you need help filling out the registration forms or have questions about the process.

5. How long do I have to register a gifted car in Indiana?

In Indiana, you are required to register a gifted car within 45 days of taking possession of it. Failure to do so can result in fines and penalties. It’s important to complete the registration process as soon as possible to avoid any legal issues and ensure that you can legally drive your new car.

If you are unable to register the car within 45 days due to extenuating circumstances, you may be able to request an extension from the BMV. However, this is not guaranteed, and it’s best to try to complete the registration process within the allotted time frame.

How To Gift A Vehicle To Someone Without Paying Taxes

In conclusion, registering a gifted car in Indiana can seem like a daunting task, but with the right information and preparation, it can be a straightforward process. By making sure that you have all the necessary documents and information, including the vehicle title, bill of sale, and proof of insurance, you can avoid any delays or complications.

It is important to note that Indiana requires all vehicles to be registered within 31 days of purchase or transfer of ownership. Failure to do so can result in fines and penalties. Additionally, be sure to check with your local county clerk’s office for any specific requirements or fees.

Finally, if you are unsure about any aspect of the registration process, do not hesitate to reach out to the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles for assistance. They are there to help you navigate the process and ensure that you are in compliance with all state laws and regulations. With these tips in mind, you can successfully register your gifted car and enjoy all the benefits of ownership in Indiana.