Motor Vehicles

Attention: We do not process titles after 4:00 PM at our

Opelika, Auburn, and Smiths Station offices.

Motor Vehicle Documents:

• Bill of Sale
• Vehicle Inspection Form
• Power of Attorney
• Affidavit for Ad Valorem Tax Credit on Motor Vehicle
• Application for Disability Access parking credentials
• Affidavit of Residency
• Next of Kin Affidavit

Important Announcement: Alabama Mandatory Liability Insurance

Please be aware of the changes with the Alabama’s mandatory liability insurance law. If the Alabama Department of Revenue is unable to verify liability insurance coverage for your vehicle a verification letter will be sent to the address you have on file at your local DMV. If the vehicle was covered on this date in question, please provide evidence of continuous liability insurance coverage for the vehicle within thirty 30 days of the date of the notice. Evidence of insurance coverage may be provided by completing an online MLI questionnaire at: www.besuretoinsureal.com or by providing the evidence of insurance coverage to your local licensing official.

Registrants may claim an exemption form the MLI law if the vehicle was not operated during the lapse in coverage due to the vehicle being stored, inoperable or otherwise unused (i.e., sold). All the following conditions must be met in order to claim the stored or inoperable exemption:

• The license plate must be surrendered to the local licensing official within thirty (30) calendar days from the date of this notice.
• The vehicle was not involved in an accident during the lapse in coverage.
• The registrant or a driver of the vehicle was not issued a citation during the lapse in coverage while operating the vehicle; and
• The exemption was not previously claimed during the current registration period for the vehicle.

If each of the above conditions have been satisfied, the current registration will be revoked for the remainder of the registration period. If the vehicle for which the registration has been revoked is no longer stored, inoperable or otherwise unused, a new registration and license plate must be obtained before operating the vehicle. Once this exemption is claimed, reinstatement of any further lapses during the registration period will require the payment of reinstatement fees.

Please note that failure to provide evidence of continuous liability insurance or failure to surrender the license plate to your local licensing official within thirty (30) calendar days from the date of notice will result in the suspension of the registration of your vehicle. Once the suspension occurs reinstatement fees will apply if liability insurance cannot be provided.

If the tag is not being surrendered within 30 days of the verification notice, the registrant must qualify for one of the “good cause” reasons listed on The MLI Affidavit, Form 32-7A-11 (Appendix F). The registrant must comply within 30 days of the release per form MLI Affidavit, Form 32-7A-11.

Motor Vehicle Links From State of Alabama:

Check Status of Electronic Title

Search for Personalized Tags

Vehicle Information Check

Specialty Plates

Collegiate Plates

Generic Specialty Plates

Military Plates

Generic Racing Plates

Antique Plates (Trucks)

Antique Plates (Cars)

Antique Plates (Motorcycles)

Title/Registration/IRP/IFTA Forms

Mandatory Liability Insurance

Mandatory Liability Insurance Manual

Title FAQS

IRP/IFTA FAQS

Registration FAQS

We do not accept business license plate renewals online.

Alabama Vehicle Registration Schedule.
Alabama registers vehicles based on the first letter of the last name.

January	A & D	June	M & I
February	B	July	P & L
March	C & E	August	J, K & R
April	F, G & N	September	Q, S & T
May	H & O	October	U, V, W, X, Y, Z
November	Commercial and Fleet Vehicles, IRP and National Guard.

**Attention Lee County Taxpayers**

• Our office cannot give price quotes for license plates over the phone.
• Per Alabama Department of Revenue, license plates cannot be renewed without a valid Alabama Drivers License.
• New Alabama residents must obtain an Alabama Drivers License within 30 days of entering the state.
• New residents must register their vehicles within 30 days of entering the state.

Automobile Insurance / Identification

Beginning January 1, 2013, license plate issuing officials will attempt to verify liability insurance utilizing the State of Alabama Online Insurance Verification System (OIVS), which will allow license plate issuing officials to immediately verify the insurance status of a vehicle at any point in time.

In addition to providing evidence of insurance, a valid state issued driver license, non-driver identification card or national driver license must be provided for EACH owner reflected on the vehicle title. If the vehicle owner is a company, the federal employer identification number (FEIN) is required.

COLLECTION OF ESCAPED TAXES
Motor vehicles with delinquent registrations are subject to payment of escaped ad valorem taxes for up to two prior years plus the current year when it can be determined a tax lien has attached to the property and the taxes have not been paid, except for the ad valorem taxes that would have been due in arrears for the 1999 tax year.

The two prior years plus the current tax year should be based on the taxpayer's tax years if ownership of the vehicle has not changed. If the ownership of vehicle has changed, the two prior years should be based on the previous owner's tax years, and the current tax year should be based on the date the next tax lien attached to the motor vehicle.

However, when a new owner of a used vehicle registers the newly acquired vehicle and it cannot be determined when the tax lien attached or if the taxes have been paid on the vehicle, collect one preceding tax year (12 months - no interest or penalty) as provided in 40- 12-253, Code of Alabama 1975 in addition to the current tax year, except for the ad valorem taxes that would have been due in arrears for the 1999 tax year. The preceding tax year should be the 12 months prior to the acquired date of the vehicle.

NEW RESIDENTS

CHANGE IN TITLE REQUIREMENTS FOR VEHICLES WITH AN OUT OF STATE LIEN:

PER THE ALABAMA DEPARTMENT, SECTION 32-8-31 (4), CODE OF ALABAMA 1975, HAS BEEN AMENDED SO THAT NO CERTIFICATE OF TITLE SHALL BE ISSUED FOR A VEHICLE FOR WHICH THE ALABAMA LICENSE PLATE ISSUING OFFICIAL HAS VERIFIED THAT THE CURRENT OWNER OR OPERATOR IS RECORDED AS THE OWNER OR OPERATOR ON A CURRENTLY EFFECTIVE CERTIFICATE OF TITLE ISSUED BY ANOTHER STATE AND THE CERTIFICATE OF TITLE IS BEING HELD BY A RECORDED LIENHOLDER.

The license plate issuing official shall obtain a copy of the out of state certificate of title or printout of the electronic out of state certificate of title and verify that the owner or operator registering the vehicle is recorded on the out of state certificate of title or printout.

VEHICLE INSPECTION

PER CODE OF ALABAMA RULING 810-5-5.13, a physical inspection of a motor vehicle and verification of the vehicle identification number and the descriptive data shown on the application is required for ALL vehicles that are being titled for the first time in the state of Alabama. This may be completed by the Lee County Revenue Commissioner's Office or a law enforcement representative.

AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE
Beginning June 1, 2000, motorists will be required to carry liability insurance on each motor vehicle. Failure to show proof of coverage at traffic stops could result in a fine of up to $500. Beginning January 1, 2001, an insurance certification was incorporated into the motor vehicle registration form which the customer signs before registration is complete."

COLLECTION OF ESCAPED TAXES
Motor vehicles with delinquent registrations are subject to payment of escaped ad valorem taxes for up to two prior years plus the current year when it can be determined a tax lien has attached to the property and the taxes have not been paid, except for the ad valorem taxes that would have been due in arrears for the 1999 tax year.

The two prior years plus the current tax year should be based on the taxpayer's tax years if ownership of the vehicle has not changed. If the ownership of vehicle has changed, the two prior years should be based on the previous owner's tax years, and the current tax year should be based on the date the next tax lien attached to the motor vehicle.

However, when a new owner of a used vehicle registers the newly acquired vehicle and it cannot be determined when the tax lien attached or if the taxes have been paid on the vehicle, collect one preceding tax year (12 months - no interest or penalty) as provided in 40- 12-253, Code of Alabama 1975 in addition to the current tax year, except for the ad valorem taxes that would have been due in arrears for the 1999 tax year. The preceding tax year should be the 12 months prior to the acquired date of the vehicle.

In order to avoid paying escape taxes, please provide a copy of the previous owner's last registration.

Customers with vehicles purchased from an Alabama Dealer:

• The application for title is required.
• Bill of sale is required.

We have transitioned to a new online motor vehicle REGISTRATION system for vehicles newly purchased from an Alabama dealer ONLY, called EasyTag

Don't Waste Time, Do it Online! Go to www.EasyTagAL.com

Here's what you'll need:

- Your Alabama title application

-Your bill of sale

-Your proof of insurance

-Your driver's license

Remember: Act quickly. You only have ten days from the date of your purchase to take advantage of the EasyTag service.

Register online ANY TIME you want 24/7 safely and securely. Please call 205-263-4599 with any questions regarding the EasyTag system.

Customers with vehicles purchased from out of state dealers:

• Will be required to pay sales tax
• Possibly apply for a title for the vehicle

Customers with vehicles purchased from an individual:

• Will be required to pay sales tax.
• Apply for a title.
• Download bill of sale here
• If the vehicle was last registered in Alabama, ad valorem taxes will have to be brought current before the vehicle can be registered.
• Please see notice below concerning escape Ad Valorem taxes on used vehicles purchased from individuals.

Required documentation is listed below.

Alabama dealer:

• Application for Title.
• Sales invoice (Bill of Sale) to verify sales tax was paid
• Tag receipt from old vehicle if transferring tag from a trade in.
• Ask about credit voucher on vehicle traded in or sold.
• Sales invoice from dealer will need to show trade in listed to receive credit voucher.
• If not, then you will need written confirmation of disposal of vehicle with dealer.
• Documentation must be original documents. Faxed copies cannot be accepted.

Out-of-state dealer:

• Original Title or Application for Title (or MSO/Certificate of Origin if new vehicle).
• Sales Invoice (Bill of Sale) to see how much sales tax is owed.
• Tag receipt from old vehicle if transferring tag from a trade in.
• Ask about credit voucher on vehicle traded in or sold.
• Sales invoice from dealer will need to show trade in listed to receive credit voucher. If not, then you will need written confirmation of disposal of vehicle with dealer.
• Documentation must be original documents. Faxed copies cannot be accepted.

Individual (Alabama):

• Original Title (or Application for Title if financed) Bill of Sale with purchase price and signed by former owner. Tag receipt from old vehicle if transferring a tag from former vehicle.
• Bill of sale from old vehicle if applying for credit voucher.
• Ask about credit voucher for vehicle traded in or sold.
• Vehicle is subject to escape taxes of up to two years if current tag receipt from former owner is not provided. See notice below.
  

Individual (Out of State):

• Original Title (or Application for Title if financed).
• Download bill of sale here.
• Tag receipt from old vehicle if transferring a tag from former vehicle.
• Bill of sale from old vehicle if applying for credit voucher.
• Ask about credit voucher on vehicle traded in or sold.
• If vehicle is not titled in other state, a copy of complete registration from other state, signed by previous owner.

RENEWALS

ATTENTION ACTIVE DUTY PERSONNEL:

In order to receive the military ad valorem tax exemption, you must provide a form from from JAG office stating eligibility and home of record. We also require a copy of your current LES. If you do not have the JAG form, you may come in person to sign affidavit. Please bring a current photo ID.

ATTENTION SPOUSES:

If you cannot obtain the JAG from, you can bring in a power of attorney in order to sign the affidavit in our office. We also need a copy of spouse's current LES and a current photo ID.

ONLINE RENEWALS

• Although this office does not recommend it, tags renewals can be made up until midnight of the last day of the month. Any system overloads or the inability to renew online does not excuse you from the late fee. Anyone renewing after that day will be charged a $15.00 penalty and will be required to come into the office.
• Decals, tags, and tag receipts will be mailed out as soon as possible after they are renewed.
• A printable receipt will be available for proof of online payment only. Not to be used as a valid tag receipt.
• Vehicle owner must be a resident of Lee County.
• Online customers will be charged a 3.0% plus $0.30 convenience fee (subject to a $3.50 minimum) which goes directly to the online payment provider, and a mail fee of $3.00.
• If your renewal notice or current registration has an incorrect address please contact our office.
• A change from a regular plate to a personalized must be transacted in our office.
• If there is problem processing your renewal, we will attempt to contact you by email Monday thru Friday between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm. Make sure you leave us the correct email for you. If we are unable to reach you we will void your registration and refund your payment. If you have questions, you may contact us at 334-737-3655.
• Any transaction requiring an affidavit or supporting documents, please see information below.

You may renew your tags online by clicking HERE.

NOTE: Before renewing online, please read disclaimer below concerning supporting documentation for some renewals.

ONLINE TAG RENEWAL - REQUIRED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

IF YOUR TAG RENEWALS INVOLVE THE FOLLOWING, WE WILL NEED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS BEFORE MAILING YOUR TAG. YOU MAY SUBMIT PAYMENT FOR THESE TYPE RENEWALS ONLINE, BUT THIS OFFICE RESERVES THE RIGHT TO WITHHOLD MAILING OF TAGS &/OR DECALS UNTIL DOCUMENTATION IS RECEIVED IN THIS OFFICE.

1. National Guard Tag: Certificate of Eligibility from Guard Unit

2. US Reserve Tag: Certificate of Eligibility from Reserve Unit

3. FOP Tag : Current Membership Card

4. Firefighter Tag: Letter from Chief stating eligibility (Paid or Volunteer)

5. Realtor Tag: The National Association of Realtors (NAR) membership card for Alabama Association of Realtors (AAR)

6. Rescue Squad Tag: Certificate signed by the treasurer of Alabama Association of Rescue Squads, Inc.

7. Amateur Radio Tag: Proof of ownership of the amateur radio or citizen’s band radio license

8. Educator Tag:

• Active – Documentation or certification of current employment in public or private education as provided by law. Documentation must be presented annually in order to substantiate eligibility to obtain these license plates.
• Retired – Documentation that he/she is receiving a monthly allotment as a retired education employee. Once a retired educator presents this documentation, the proof shall be valid from year to year and the retired educator is not required to resubmit proof of retirement as long as the retired educator does not move to another county.

9. Military Ad Valorem Tax Exemption: Serviceman's Special Affidavit with LES Form from JAG office stating eligibility and home of record. We also require a copy of your current LES

RENEWAL BY MAIL

• A courtesy registration reminder is mailed for each vehicle that is currently registered in Lee County.
• The reminders are mailed the first few days of each renewal month.
• Although these courtesy reminders are mailed, it is still the responsibility of the vehicle owner to make sure the vehicle is registered and fees paid on time.
• Before mailing, the owner of record will need to sign the notice and fill in their drivers license number and expiration date.
• Late renewals cannot be handled by mail. Owner will need to come into the office the handle late registrations.
• Military Ad Valorem Tax Exemption Form from JAG office stating eligibility and home of record. We also require a copy of your current LES

RENEWAL IN PERSON

• Please bring your courtesy reminder or a copy of the last registration with you when renewing in person.
• The Alabama drivers license and insurance card of each owner of record is also required.
• The best time to renew your tag in person is between the 11th and 25th of the month. Mondays and Fridays are high activity days in the office, along with the first working day following holidays.
• You may pay with credit/debit cards at the counter. You will be charged a 2.5% convenience fee, $.30 processing fee. These fees goes directly to the provider.
• Vehicles that are renewed late are subject to a $15 late fee. Vehicles not driven during the expiration/renewal month may sign a non use affidavit to avoid the penalty.
• All ad valorem tax must be brought current regardless of use of vehicle.
• Military Ad Valorem Tax Exemption Form from JAG office stating eligibility and home of record. We also require a copy of your current LES

NEW RESIDENTS TO ALABAMA
If you own the vehicle:

1. Title

2. Last Registration

3. Proof of Alabama insurance

4. Current valid Driver’s License

5. Proof of Residence

If you have a lien on vehicle:

1. Copy of title

2. Last registration

3. Proof of Alabama insurance

4. Current, valid Driver’s License

5. Proof of residence

NEW RESIDENTS FROM ANOTHER ALABAMA COUNTY
Residents moving from another Alabama county will need to bring in the renewal reminder or the previous year's registration, proof of residency, proof of insurance and your Alabama drivers license in order to obtain Lee county plates. You may wait until your renewal month to switch the registration.

NEWS

ONLINE VERIFICATION OF LIABILITY INSURANCE

• In the near future, the State of Alabama will begin online verification of mandatory vehicle liability insurance. When in place, insurance cards will have to be presented to register any motor vehicle. VIEW Brochure on OIVS.

NO MORE PHONE SUPPORT FOR TITLE INQUIRIES

• New email service replaces title inquiry telephone service. Per memo dated April 25, 2008, the Department of Revenue is discontinuing telephone service for motor vehicle title inquiries. All customers are to be directed to send email inquiries to titles@revenue.alabama.gov
• The memo states that the Department of Revenue is receiving over 200,000 calls per month on the telephone system and it is impossible to maintain enough staff to handle this volume of calls.
• Customers can also check vehicle information on the http://www.revenue.alabama.gov website or follow the links at the top of this page.