Can you register a car that isnt physically in the US?

If the car is not US spec it's not possible

If the car is US spec (and imported to Europe) and the title of the vehicle is French let's say, that person would need to sell the car to somebody residing in the US, and that person would need a proof that the car is on US soil (any custom clearance papers) plus a copy of EPA/DOT that certifies that it is still compelling with US specs.

in short... nope.

 

I legally registered a car that was not in the U.S. at the time I registered it, so I know that it can be done. Your friend's situation sounds different to what mine was though.

 

Yes it's possible (at least in FL). Just need a notary to sign the form. But it's not legal...

(I am assuming the car originated in the US and was taken to France. I.E., a US spec car that has already been registered in the US at some point)

 

FYI, depending on the State, you'll be required to have a VIN check done by the local PD. If the vehicle isn't present, the VIN check can't be run. They read it off the VIN plate. Now, if you happen to know someone who can do a favor for you...

CW

 

That was true for me, except here the California Highway Patrol performs the VIN check instead of the local PD.

I should have typed that I initiated the registration process before the car was in the country. The VIN check is required to complete the registration, but I walked out of the DMV office the day I applied for registration with a Temporary Operating Permit, so the car was road legal before it was in the U.S.

 

VIN cert can be signed by notary in FL.

 

This is the process in Kansas. If vehicle not present then Hwy Patrol cannot verify VIN and you are SOL.

 

I know In arizona, As long as they see a Title Your good to go.
Last year they ended the Vin check.

But I dunno about a International title.

 

In Louisiana just bring the title or whatever paperwork you have to one of our independent notary shops that has their computers tied in with the OMV. They'll get everything through and give you a registration and plate on the spot. Some of them will tell you how to forge the donation form so you can get around the taxes.

I'm sure it will be the next thing the state investigates, the inspection sticker people just got fined from the state police.

 

Interesting to read the different replies here and see how this process differs state to state.

In Idaho you just bring the DMV the paperwork and they register it. I've registered several cars without them being present, granted they were in the state at the time, but it's not like the DMV knew.

Only time I know of the DMV checking a car was when I guy I know registered a Nissan Primera (JDM car), but all the inspector did was look at the headlights. Bam, instant state issued VIN number and registration.

Real problem would be if your state/county required emissions testing and the car couldn't be present. But I'm sure there would be ways around that.

 

While I am sure there are ways to do it otherwise, legally only Members of the Military and Foreign Service can register a car that is not physically in the US.