Registering a car in New York costs vary depending on factors such as the vehicle’s weight, type, and your location within the state. Here are key cost details for car registration in New York as of 2025:

• Base registration fees for passenger vehicles range approximately from $26 to over $70 for two years, depending on vehicle weight.
• Weight classes with associated two-year fees:
  • Up to 1,650 lbs: $26
  • 1,651 – 1,900 lbs: $29
  • 1,901 – 2,100 lbs: $32.50
  • Over 3,700 lbs: Around $71
• If you live in the Metropolitan Commuter Transportation District (MCTD) counties (including NYC and nearby counties), an additional $50 two-year fee applies.
• There is a $25 fee for standard license plates when registering for the first time. Custom plates cost $60 or more plus an annual fee.
• For first-time registration, a $50 title certificate fee is charged.
• Sales tax applies to the vehicle's purchase price on first registration.
• There is a $1 processing fee added to the above fees.
• Electric vehicles or vehicles with 6 or more cylinders have a minimum two-year registration fee of $32.50.

So, for a typical light passenger vehicle, expect to pay between $26 and $80+ for registration fees over two years, plus title, plate, and sales tax fees where applicable. Heavier vehicles and those in the NYC metro area pay more. This gives you a broad overview of costs to register a car in New York in 2025. For precise fees tailored to your vehicle, the NY DMV offers an online fee calculator. These costs reflect the 2025 fees and regulations for New York car registrations.