Indiana vehicle registration fees are processed through the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Indiana is a rear-plate-only state. The annual registration fee is $21.35 for standard passenger vehicles, with an annual vehicle excise tax layered on top based on the vehicle’s age and original MSRP. County and municipal wheel taxes add further cost in many jurisdictions.
How much does it cost to register a vehicle in Indiana?
Indiana’s base registration fee is $21.35 per year. The annual vehicle excise tax, which is calculated as a declining percentage of the vehicle’s original MSRP, is typically the largest fee component for newer vehicles.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Standard passenger vehicle registration | $21.35 per year |
| Annual vehicle excise tax (1st and 2nd year) | Percentage of MSRP — contact the BMV for the current rate for your vehicle |
| Annual vehicle excise tax (3rd through 6th year) | Reduced percentage — contact the BMV |
| Annual vehicle excise tax (7th year and beyond) | Low minimum flat rate |
| Motorcycle registration | $26.35 per year |
| County or municipal wheel tax | Varies by county — typically $7.50 to $40 or more annually |
| EV registration surcharge | Contact the Indiana BMV at in.gov/bmv for the current fee |
Indiana’s total registration cost varies widely based on the vehicle’s age, original value, and your county’s wheel tax. Use the Indiana BMV fee estimator at in.gov/bmv to calculate your specific total.
What is the plate replacement fee in Indiana?
Indiana plate replacement fees vary by plate type. Contact the Indiana BMV for current replacement fees.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Standard plate replacement | Contact the Indiana BMV at in.gov/bmv or (888) 692-6841 for the current fee |
| Personalized plate replacement | Contact the Indiana BMV for the current fee |
What vehicle taxes apply in Indiana?
Indiana charges 7% state sales tax on vehicle purchases. County adjusted gross income taxes (CAGIT) may add additional cost in some jurisdictions.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| State sales tax on vehicle purchase | 7% |
| County adjusted gross income tax (CAGIT) | Varies by county — typically 0.5% to 3.13% |
| Use tax on out-of-state vehicle purchases | 7% of purchase price |
Indiana allows a trade-in deduction from the taxable purchase price for dealer sales. Private-party vehicle purchases are taxed on the full purchase price.
Does Indiana require an emissions test for registration?
Indiana does not require a statewide vehicle emissions test for registration renewal. No smog check or emissions certificate is required for standard passenger vehicle registration in Indiana.
What are the insurance requirements for registration in Indiana?
Indiana requires all registered vehicles to carry minimum liability insurance.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury — per person | $25,000 |
| Bodily injury — per accident | $50,000 |
| Property damage — per accident | $25,000 |
| Uninsured motorist | $25,000 / $50,000 required |
Are there any registration penalties or late fees in Indiana?
Indiana charges late fees for registration not completed on time. A one-month grace period typically applies after expiration.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Late vehicle registration | Contact the Indiana BMV at in.gov/bmv or (888) 692-6841 for the current late fee |
Is there a registration grace period in Indiana?
Indiana generally provides a one-month grace period after registration expiration before late fees apply. Confirm current terms with the Indiana BMV, as policies may be updated.
Can I get a registration fee refund in Indiana?
Indiana does not generally offer registration fee refunds. Contact the BMV at (888) 692-6841 for specific eligibility situations such as a total loss or permanent out-of-state relocation.