How to own a vehicle in
Wisconsin
as a non-US resident
Wisconsin
Presence requirements
The US states, not the national government, control vehicle ownership in the United States.
In order to own a vehicle in any US state, you must establish a presence in that state.
These are the presence requirements to own a vehicle in this state:
Address
Wisconsin address required to own a vehicle in Wisconsin.
Proof of Residency at Address
None required.
Identity
A valid Wisconsin driver license or Social Security Number is required to register a vehicle in Wisconsin.
Cost of owning a vehicle
When you register a vehicle - apply for ownership and permission to drive it on public roads - two costs are due:
- Sales tax
- Registration fees
Sales tax and registration fees are due in the state in which the vehicle is registered, not where the vehicle is purchased.
These are the costs to own a vehicle in this state.
Sales tax is due where a vehicle is owned, not where it is bought - so owning a vehicle in Montana can save you hundreds (or thousands) of dollars.
Sales tax (state + local average)
5.5% of the vehicle's value
Registration fees
$299.50
Inspection Requirements
In order to register a vehicle (or renew a registration in this state, the vehicle must meet the following inspection requirements:
Biennial emissions inspections required for vehicles 1996 or newer in the following counties: Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Kenosha, Racine, Sheboygan, Waukesha, Washington
There are 38 states that
Don't require proof of residency.
There are 21 states that
Don't require proof of residency.
Don't require a US driver's license.
There are 7 states that
Don't require proof of residency.
Don't require a US driver's license.
Don't require vehicle inspections.
Montana is the only US state that
Allows non-residents to register vehicles through a company.
Doesn't require a US driver's license.
Doesn't require vehicle inspections.
Doesn't have vehicle sales tax.
Want an easier way?
Let visitor.us register your vehicle in Montana, which has:
• No US driver's license requirement
• No vehicle inspection requirement
• No sales tax (purchase your vehicle in any US state)
• No vehicle inspection requirement
• No sales tax (purchase your vehicle in any US state)
Midwest
How to register a vehicle in other states in the region
Let's Get You on the Road
We make US vehicle ownership easy so you can enjoy your visit.
