Georgia Vehicle Registration and Title Guide
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is what you need to know about registering a vehicle in Georgia. This guide covers fees, title transfers, emissions requirements, and documents you will need from the Georgia Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Division.
Registration at a Glance
- Renewal Cycle
- Every 1 year(s)
- Emissions Testing
- Required in some counties
- Safety Inspection
- Not required
Registration Fees
| Transaction | Fee |
|---|---|
| New Registration | $20 |
| Renewal | See notes |
| Title Transfer | Contact DMV |
| Duplicate Title | Contact DMV |
| Late Penalty | Contact DMV |
| Vanity / Personalized Plate | Contact DMV |
Title Transfer
Dealer vs. Private-Party Sales
Requirements differ for dealer purchases vs private-party sales
Emissions and Inspections
Georgia requires emissions testing in certain counties.
Counties with emissions requirements:
- Cherokee
- Clayton
- Cobb
- Coweta
- DeKalb
- Douglas
- Fayette
- Forsyth
- Fulton
- Gwinnett
- Hall
- Henry
- Paulding
- Rockdale
No safety inspection required.
Georgia-Specific Information
Georgia replaced its sales tax on vehicles with a Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT) paid once at the time of title transfer. Emissions testing is required in metro Atlanta counties.
Frequently Asked Questions
New vehicle registration in Georgia costs $20.
Yes, Georgia requires a title transfer when a vehicle changes ownership.
Georgia requires emissions testing in certain counties: Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Hall, Henry, Paulding, Rockdale.
Looking for DMV Office Locations?
Find your nearest Georgia Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Division office, hours, and services offered.
View Georgia DMV office locationsPrefer to learn online?
Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.
View Online CoursesThis information is based on Georgia Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Division guidelines. Requirements and fees can change. Visit the official Georgia Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Division website for the most current information.