SUMMARY: keep the proof of registration in the CAR, the paid registration renewal notice in your TAX files, and the title in your PERMANENT file. (Any extraneous registration renewal paperwork can be filed MONTHLY after completed).

Most importantly, your current proof of vehicle registration should be kept inside the glove compartment of your vehicle (along with proof of auto insurance coverage and emergency contact information).  You will receive a renewal notice from your state department of motor vehicles.

An unanswered/unpaid registration renewal notice belongs in an action file, typically on your desktop to be paid immediately or before the registration deadline (use "ACTIVE" labels if necessary - e.g. "Bills To Pay").

A completed/paid registration renewal notice is a tax deductible transaction (if you itemize deductions**), so file it in the light-blue TAX section, e.g. “Tax Documents”, “Tax Paid (Property/Sales)”, or “Other Deductions” depending on how detailed your tax categories are. (You may also be filing business or tax deductible receipts by month or vendor A-Z, if you use accounting software or a spreadsheet to categorize expenses).

The vehicle proof of registration and renewal notices should not be confused with the vehicle title transfer or closing paperwork from the time you purchased the car, filed in PERMANENT "Auto Records".  A title transfer document is especially needed if you purchase a used car, but may not be provided by a new car dealer in certain situations (i.e. when leasing a new car). When purchasing a new car from a dealer the title transfer and initial registration is handled by the dealer. For subsequent registration renewal, you will automatically receive notices in the mail.

NOTE 1: Some people may feel compelled to keep a copy of your most recent proof of registration and other renewal paperwork for general reference in the filing drawer (to avoid having to go to the car to access the information if you want to check/confirm when you last renewed, or as a back-up). Keep in mind, however, that proof of registration paperwork is not needed when switching or applying for new auto insurance coverage—only the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) which should already be found in your PERMANENT file "Auto Records" (simply locate the car purchase records—i.e. closing paperwork, lease agreement, or title transfer—also the VIN will most likely appear on any repair/maintenance invoice at the top).  Also keep in mind you can already locate the latest registration renewal receipt in your tax files for reference, and the proof of registration is still in your car. If you still choose to keep a separate copy of the recent proof of registration (or if your state DMV gives you an extra copy), consider using your handy REMOVE/REPLACE "Insurance, Auto" file. Alternatively, you could print a custom REMOVE/REPLACE file such as "Auto Registration", specifically for holding a recent copy of proof of registration. (This is probably overkill for most people).

NOTE 2: Some filers, according to preference, will drop a separate copy of the proof of registration in the PERMANENT "Auto Records" file which is acceptable, although it will need to be updated annually and may become cluttered in the permanent file which accumulates vehicle maintenance history, etc.  Therefore it is generally recommended to just keep the proof of registration in the CAR, the paid registration renewal notice in your TAX files, and the title in your PERMANENT file. (Any extraneous registration renewal paperwork can be filed MONTHLY after completed).

**motor vehicle registration fees are considered personal property taxes on IRS Schedule A for itemized tax deductions, if all or part of the fee is based on the value of the vehicle, which may vary depending on the state you live in.

*NOTE: While FreedomFiler® provides a method of automatic purging which eliminates the need to review files, you must ultimately decide which documents are kept two years, ten years, or indefinitely. FreedomFiler® is not liable under any circumstances for claims of loss or damage arising from suggested document retention guidelines. Consult a professional advisor to determine your specific document retention needs and adapt your system accordingly.

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