The process of applying for an antique vehicle registration in Tennessee is generally administered by the state Department of Revenue (DOR). Motorists who request antique license plates will need to satisfy a set of DOR-imposed requirements, which may differ from the procedure of obtaining regular vehicle registration documents.

Since a TN antique car registration is issued to motor vehicles that classify as antique rides, drivers must first ensure their car falls under this category prior to addressing DOR. In addition to getting the correct tags, applicants also have the option to register their car with vintage license plates. Should you wish to learn more about how to register an antique car in TN, continue reading below.

Definition of an Antique Vehicle in Tennessee

Since obtaining a Tennessee antique vehicle registration is only possible for owners of antique cars, drivers must learn the difference between a standard and antique motor vehicle in order to proceed with their application properly.

Under the strict antique license plates rules, your vehicle will be classified as antique if it is more than 25 years old without any changes to its body and engine.

Aside from this, your vehicle must be used for travel to and from tours, exhibits, parades or other events of public interest. If a vehicle is considered an antique, it may be used for general transportation on Saturday and Sunday only, or any day if it is used for the purposes of selling, testing or repairs.

Steps in the Tennessee Registration Process

When registering a vintage car in Tennessee, the state Department of Revenue generally requires motorists to complete and submit an application form and/or certification for antique vehicle registration.

Specific personal information will be necessary in this case, including the applicant’s name and address, as well as the car year, make, model and a complete serial or vehicle identification number (VIN). Drivers requesting this type of car registration must also prove their ownership and the vehicle’s age by signing the form.

Since most U.S. states mandate applicants for antique car license plates to provide a certificate of title, as well as proof of financial responsibility among other requirements, contact a local DOR county clerk in TN to inquire about any additional steps pertaining to registering antique rides within the state.

Your historical car registration is permanent and a renewal procedure is not required, contrary to renewing your regular car registration documents.

Note: DOR also allows owners of antique motor vehicles to obtain plates instead of antique tags, which usually display the era when the car was manufactured.

Fees to Register an Antique Vehicle in Tennessee

For successful completion of your TN antique vehicle registration procedure, you must also remember to provide payment for the fees as set by DOR. The current fee to obtain antique license plates amounts to $32.75. Additional county costs may apply as well. Fees are subject to change without notice.

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