Mark & Galusha, Attorneys Handling Municipal and Traffic Violations in - Union, Springfield, and Paterson, New Jersey.

When moving to a new state, it is often difficult to check off ALL the items from your to-do list. But when moving to New Jersey, vehicle registration should be a top priority. 

As a new resident, it is necessary for drivers to register their vehicles with the State within 60 days of moving. Failing to do so may lead to fines, and even impounding.

As required by N.J.S.A. 39:3-17.1, “Any person who becomes a resident of this State… shall register any vehicle operated on the public highways of this State within 60 days of so becoming a resident of New Jersey.” A person who is caught for the first time in violation of this statute is subject to a maximum fine of $250.00, and a maximum fine of $500 may be imposed for a second violation. If caught a third time, the state is authorized to impound your vehicle for no less than 96 hours (or four days). At this time, authorities will release your vehicle only upon showing of registration, insurance, and payment of all towing and storage fees.

Fees for storing an impounded vehicle can run up to $100 per day, depending on location, and towing fees are generally upwards of $60. If you fail to reclaim your vehicle by midnight on the day following the 30th day of impound, the State is authorized to sell your vehicle at auction.

It is therefore in a resident’s best interest to register their motor vehicle as soon as possible after moving to the Garden State.

If you have an issue concerning fines associated with the failure to register, or any other municipal matter, call Mark & Galusha LLC, attorneys specializing in municipal matters. Contact us at 908-626-1001 or 973-440-2311, or tell us your story by clicking the contact us page.