Michigan Vehicle Registration (3 Steps)The buyer has 15 days to register their vehicle at a local Secretary of State office.[1] Ideally, the seller will accompany the buyer when the registration occurs. 1. Prepare for RegistrationThe buyer must gather the following[2]:
Michigan Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney – This is required if the buyer wants another person to complete the registration for them.
2. Obtain Statement from Loan Provider (if applicable)A lien termination statement or signed title from the lienholder is needed if the vehicle previously had a loan against it. If there’s an active loan, a letter of authorization from the lienholder is required instead.[3]
3. Visit Secretary of State OfficeThe registration paperwork must be filed in person at a local Secretary of State office (appointments may be scheduled in advance). While at the office, the following will occur:
A set of license plates and registration tabs will be issued once the vehicle is registered. |
Michigan Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale Form
Last updated May 24th, 2025
A Michigan motor vehicle bill of sale is used to record the change of ownership when buying and selling a vehicle. Although it’s not mandatory for vehicle registration or titling, a bill of sale acts as proof of purchase for taxation purposes and can also function as an odometer disclosure statement.