Licensing Motor Vehicles & Trailers

Our Services:

Licensing Motor Vehicles & Trailers

The License Office can provide service for licensing motor vehicles and trailers.

For Missouri Residents
In order to license a motor vehicle or trailer in the State of Missouri, the following documents must be submitted:

1. An original or certified copy of the personal property tax receipt in the owner's name for the previous year or a statement of non-assessment (a waiver) from the county must accompany all applications for license plates.
   Note: Missouri Resident Military Personnel must show an original copy of their paid personal property tax or waiver from the county of residence. Non-Resident Military Personnel may submit a copy of their leave and earnings statement in lieu of a personal property tax receipt or waiver.
2. An application for license must be signed. The owner's signature certifies that the owner has and will maintain, during the period of registration. Financial responsibility with respect to each motor vehicle owned, licensed or operated on the streets and highways.
3. A current insurance identification card (original or copy). This is not required for trailers at this time.
4. Applicable fees.
   a. Motor vehicle (passenger) license fees are based on the taxable horsepower.
   b. Truck license fees are based on the weight of the truck and zone of operation (local or beyond local).
   c. Trailer plates may be purchased for one year or three years.
   d. In addition, an office fee will be charged as mandated by the State of Missouri.
5. Vehicle Safety Inspection not more than 60 days old. (except for new motor vehicles, which do not need safety inspections for the first two registration cycles. Please see the License Plate Renewals page for more details or click here).
6. If the owner desires to transfer a license plate at the time he makes application for title, a $2.00 transfer fee is charged unless the license plates being transferred expire the month the plates are transferred. In the event that license plates are being transferred only, the owner does not need to submit the personal property tax receipt.

New Residents

To license a motor vehicle or trailer in the State of Missouri, the following documents must be submitted:

1. A signed application for license as long as a Missouri title has already been obtained. The owner's signature certifies that the owner has and will maintain, during the period of registration. Financial responsibility with respect to each motor vehicle owned, licensed or operated on the streets and highways.
2. An original or certified copy of the personal property tax receipt in the owner's name for the previous year, or a personal property tax waiver from the former county of residence.
3. Current proof of insurance for the motor vehicle.
4. Safety inspection less than 60 days old.
5. Applicable fees.
   • Motor vehicle (passenger) license fees are based on the taxable horsepower.
   • Truck license fees are based on the weight of the truck and zone of operation (local or beyond local).
   • Trailer plates may be purchased for one year or three years.
   • In addition, an office fee will be charged as mandated by the State of Missouri.

For additional questions, please call our office at (816) 316-4835.