Registering a vehicle in New Jersey involves several fees that you need to be aware of. These fees cover titling, registration, sales tax, and potentially an electric vehicle fee. Understanding these costs will help you prepare for the car registration process in NJ.
Essential Fees for Car Registration in New Jersey
When you register your vehicle with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC), you will encounter the following fees:
Title Fee
The title fee is a one-time charge to establish ownership of your vehicle. The standard title fee is $60. However, if you financed your vehicle and have a lien, the fee is $85 for one lien and $110 for two liens. This fee ensures your vehicle’s title is legally recorded and reflects any financial interests in the vehicle.
Registration Fee
The registration fee is a recurring payment that allows you to legally operate your vehicle on New Jersey roads. This fee varies based on the type of vehicle you are registering. The registration fee includes the cost of your license plates. For new vehicles that have never been titled, the registration is valid for four years. Leased vehicles receive registration based on the lease term. To estimate your specific registration fee, you can use the online fee calculator provided by NJMVC.
Sales Tax Fee
New Jersey levies a sales tax on vehicle purchases. The sales tax fee is a payment for this tax, and the amount depends on the purchase price of your vehicle and the current sales tax rate in New Jersey. If you require assistance calculating the sales tax for your vehicle, it is recommended to contact the New Jersey Division of Taxation for accurate guidance.
Electric Vehicle Fee
Starting July 1, 2024, New Jersey implemented an annual additional fee for zero emission vehicles (ZEVs). This fee is in addition to the standard registration fee. It applies to vehicles certified as ZEVs under California Air Resources Board standards. The electric vehicle fee is $250 annually, and it will increase by $10 each year for the subsequent four years. For new ZEV registrations, the fee for multiple years is collected upfront. For example, for new ZEVs registered between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025, you will pay the fee for the years 2024, 2025, 2026, and 2027 at the time of initial registration.
The NJMVC is updating its systems to incorporate this new electric vehicle fee. For ZEV registrations between July 1, 2024, and August 31, 2024, the additional fee will be collected separately after the initial registration. Purchasers of ZEVs during this period will receive a notice regarding this additional fee.
Understanding these fees is a crucial part of the car registration process in New Jersey. Make sure to budget for these costs to ensure a smooth and compliant vehicle registration experience.
