Registering a work truck or van in New York might seem complicated, but you can break it down into a few key steps. Follow this guide to get it done right.

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Step 1: Do You Even Need Commercial Plates?

First, let's see if your vehicle needs commercial plates. Answer these simple questions:

• Is your truck or van used for business? (Think landscaping, plumbing, delivery, construction, etc.)
• Is it heavy? If it's used for business and weighs more than 5,000 lbs., you likely need them. Many standard pickup trucks (like a Ford F-250/F-350) and cargo vans (like a Sprinter or Transit) fall into this category.
• Is it a specific work vehicle? If it's a tow truck, dump truck, or tractor, the answer is yes.
• Do you transport people for a fee? If you use it as a shuttle for 15+ people, you'll need commercial plates.

If you answered YES to any of these, continue to Step 2.

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Step 2: Gather Your Paperwork

Think of this as your DMV toolkit. Having these ready will save you a huge amount of time.

• Proof You Own It: The vehicle's original Title. If it's brand new, you'll need the certificate of origin from the dealer.
• Your Driver's License: A valid NYS license.
• Proof of Insurance: You must have commercial auto insurance. Your insurance company will give you a special card called an NYS Insurance ID Card (Form FS-20).
• Proof You Paid Sales Tax: A bill of sale and a completed sales tax form (DTF-802). Purchased from a Dealer or Out of State? Forms DTF-803, or 804.
• Business Tax ID: If the vehicle is owned by your business (an LLC, Corp, etc.), you'll need the business's Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN).
• Weight Slip: If your truck is very heavy (empty weight over 6,000 lbs.), you'll need a slip from a certified scale showing how much it weighs.
• Proof of Incorporation: If registering to a business please include proof of incorporation.

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Step 3: Go to the DMV and Register

With your toolkit ready, it's time to head to a DMV office or, to save time NOW at NY Tag and Title

1. Fill out the Application: Ask for the Vehicle Registration/Title Application (Form MV-82). Fill it out carefully or use our Interactive Form. The most important part is declaring the Maximum Gross Weight (the weight of the truck plus the heaviest load you'll ever carry).
2. Pay the Fees: The cost is based on the weight you declare—heavier trucks pay more.
3. Get Your Plates: Once you submit your paperwork and payment, you'll receive your commercial license plates.

Remember: If you'd rather not spend your day at the DMV, you can use a third-party service such as NY Tag & Title to handle this step for you. See the tip at the end of this article.

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Step 4: Important Rules for Big Trucks & Out-of-State Travel

This step is a heads-up for special situations.

• For VERY Heavy Trucks (over 18,000 lbs.):
  If your truck's maximum weight is over 18,000 lbs (roughly the weight of a garbage truck), you have an extra task. You must register for a Highway Use Tax (HUT) certificate. This is a special tax you pay based on the miles you drive in New York.
• For Driving Outside of New York:
  If you plan to drive your work truck in other states, you'll likely need special "apportioned" plates through the International Registration Plan (IRP). This lets you operate in multiple states with just one registration. You'll also need a fuel tax license (IFTA).

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Step 5: After You Get Your Plates (Staying Legal)

You're almost done! Just remember these two final rules to stay compliant.

1. Get It Inspected: Your vehicle needs a commercial safety inspection every 12 months.
2. Label Your Truck: You must display your business name and address clearly on both sides of the vehicle.

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Want to Skip the DMV Lines?

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Hate the thought of long lines and confusing paperwork at the DMV? You can save time and hassle by using a professional service.

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NY Tag and Title specializes in handling New York vehicle registrations for you. We can process your paperwork, deal with the DMV, and get you on the road faster. This is a great option for busy professionals who want to ensure their registration is done correctly without the long wait.

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Final Tip: Vehicle rules can be tricky. If you're ever unsure about a specific form or rule, the best thing to do is call NY Tag & Title or your local DMV or check the official NYS DMV website. It's better to ask a question than to get a fine later!