How to Get a License for a Classic Car

Nostalgia is the primary reason enthusiasts and collectors are drawn to classic cars. They admire their unique aesthetic, mechanical simplicity, and the craftsmanship that went into the creation of these vintage vehicles.

Many people see these vehicles as symbols of a bygone era, when automotive design was more artistic and less driven by modern production constraints. The unique styling and attention to detail of classic cars, often hand-built or with fewer automation processes, create a sense of timeless elegance.

Classic cars serve as tangible links to the past, often connected to childhood memories, famous people, or significant periods in history. Additionally, they perfectly capture the spirit of freedom on the open road.

For collectors, owning and restoring these vehicles is not only a passion but a way to preserve history. The challenge of finding rare parts or meticulously restoring a vintage car enhances their sense of achievement.

Some people even see classic cars as investments, thanks to their tendency to appreciate in value over time. So on top of all the aesthetic and nostalgic qualities of classic cars, there is even a financial appeal that adds to their allure.

Whether you’ve restored it to pristine condition or bought it fully refurbished, driving your vintage vehicle on public roads involves one crucial step: getting it properly licensed. The process of obtaining a license for a classic car can vary depending on where you live, but there are some general steps that apply in most cases. This is what we will be discussing here today.

What is Considered a Classic Car?

Before diving into the steps of obtaining a license, it’s essential to define what qualifies as a “classic car”.

A classic car is generally defined as a vehicle that is at least 20 to 40 years old, though the specific criteria can vary depending on country or organization. Classic cars are often distinguished by their unique design, historical significance, and limited production. They are typically well-preserved or restored to their original condition in order to fully showcase the craftsmanship and engineering of the era it originated from.

Enthusiasts and collectors often seek out classic cars for their nostalgic value and potential investment opportunities, as their rarity and condition can significantly impact their market value.

The exact definition of a "classic car" can therefore vary by region or country, and this distinction is often important when it comes to licensing and registration. In many places, a classic car is subject to special licensing and insurance rules that recognize its status as a historical vehicle.

Step 1: Check Your Local Regulations

Obtaining a license for a classic car in the US involves a process that varies depending on the state and local regulations. Most states have specific requirements for registering a classic, antique, or vintage car, often depending on the vehicle's age.

To begin, check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or similar agency to understand their specific requirements. You will typically need to provide proof of ownership, such as a title, and may need to submit the vehicle for inspection to confirm its eligibility as a classic car.

Many states allow owners of classic cars to apply for special license plates or vintage plates that resemble those used during the car’s original era. These plates often come with perks, such as reduced registration fees or waivers from emissions testing.

Keep in mind that the use of classic cars under these plates may be limited to exhibitions, parades, or occasional personal use.

Insurance is another critical factor when licensing a classic car, as many insurers offer specialized coverage for vintage vehicles, which often includes provisions for restoration and agreed-upon value protection. To ensure full compliance, always consult your state’s guidelines and consider contacting a classic car organization or attorney if you run into any legal issues or need further clarification.

Step 2: Gather Essential Documents

Before applying, you will need to gather several essential documents. First, you must have the car’s title, which proves your ownership. If the title is missing or lost, you’ll need to apply for a duplicate from your state’s DMV.

If you’ve recently purchased the vehicle, ensure the title has been properly transferred to your name. Additionally, you will need a bill of sale if you bought the car from a private seller, which documents the transaction and is often required during the registration process.

Beyond the title and bill of sale, you’ll need to provide proof of insurance. Some states have specific insurance requirements for classic cars, which may differ from standard auto insurance policies. Typically, you’ll need classic or antique car insurance, which takes into account the vehicle's value, usage, and historical significance.

Finally, ensure you have a completed vehicle inspection certificate, which confirms that the car meets state safety standards. Depending on your state, emissions tests might be required as well. Once all these documents are collected, you can proceed with the registration and apply for a classic car license plate.

Step 3: Determine the Type of Registration You Need

Classic cars often come with unique registration options depending on their age, use, and condition. Here are the most common types of registration you might encounter:

Standard Registration

If you plan to use your classic car for regular driving, including commuting, you may opt for a standard registration. This process is similar to registering a modern car and will allow you to drive your classic vehicle without many restrictions.

Historic or Collector Registration

If your classic car will only be used for specific purposes, such as attending car shows or parades, you may qualify for historic or collector registration. This type of registration usually comes with benefits like lower fees and insurance rates. This is the type of registration that comes with driving restrictions.

You may only be able to drive the vehicle on weekends, to special events, or for maintenance purposes.

Restored and Modified Cars

In cases where a classic car has been heavily modified (think hot rods or muscle cars with custom parts), the registration process may differ. Modified classic cars may not qualify for historic plates but will likely still require a VIN verification and may have to meet certain safety and emissions standards, depending on local laws.

Step 4: Get a Classic Car Insurance Policy

As we mentioned earlier, obtaining a classic car insurance policy is one of the key steps to getting a license for your vintage automobile.

Classic car insurance differs from standard auto insurance because it is tailored specifically for older, often rare vehicles that are used less frequently. These policies are designed to protect the value of the car, which can appreciate over time, unlike most modern vehicles.

When choosing a policy, owners should look for agreed value coverage. This allows them to agree with the insurer on the car’s worth. This is important because classic cars can often have a higher market value compared to their original purchase price.

Insurers may also require the vehicle to be stored in a secure location, and may impose limits on how many miles it can be driven annually.

Before acquiring a policy, owners must meet specific requirements. This typically includes having a clean driving record and ensuring that the classic car is not used for daily commuting. Classic cars are often considered collectibles, and insurance companies prefer to limit their exposure to risk by only covering vehicles driven on a limited basis. This may include car shows, parades, and special events.

By securing a classic car insurance policy, owners protect their investment while complying with state laws that require insurance coverage for registration.

After obtaining the appropriate insurance, owners can then proceed with the necessary steps to register their classic car, ensuring that it meets the state’s legal requirements for a roadworthy vehicle.

 Step 5: Pass a Safety and Emissions Inspection

Another key step you have to go through to ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy is passing a safety inspection. This stage of the process includes checking essential systems like brakes, lights, tires, and steering.

Safety inspections are typically required to ensure that even older, classic vehicles meet minimum operational standards. In some states, additional checks for seat belts or other modern safety features might be required, although many classic cars may be exempt from modern regulations depending on their age.

In addition to safety inspections, many states also require classic cars to pass emissions tests. These inspections help verify that a car’s exhaust meets environmental standards. That said, older vehicles often face more lenient criteria or exemptions due to the technology available when they were manufactured.

Some states even have special exemptions for classic or antique cars that are driven infrequently. Classic car owners should verify their specific state requirements, as regulations can differ widely across the country.

Step 6: Pay the Required Fees and Display Your Plates

In addition to the standard fees for registration, some states charge a special fee for classic or antique vehicle plates—which we discussed earlier. Fees vary by state, but they typically range from $50 to $200 for classic car registration.

After paying the necessary fees and receiving your new plates (if applicable), it’s time to install them on your car. Be sure to follow local laws regarding plate display. For example, some areas may require front and rear plates, while others only require rear plates.

If you’re using specialty plates, you might want to purchase a protective cover to keep them in good condition, especially if they have a custom design for classic or historic cars.

Work with Classic Car Deals to Find the Best Classic Cars for Sale

Licensing a classic car is a process that requires attention to detail, but it’s well worth the effort to ensure your vehicle is road-ready and compliant with the law. Whether you’re taking your vintage beauty to a car show or simply cruising through town, following these steps will help you enjoy the full experience of owning and driving a classic car.

Work with Classic Car Deals if you want an easier way to obtain the classic car of your dreams.

Located in Cadillac, Michigan, Classic Car Deals is the world’s largest online consignment company. They can help you find the classic car (or truck) that fits your exact needs and preferences.

Classic Car Deals has a showroom where you can view all the classic cars for sale that they have in stock at their headquarters. If you want to view the cars online, they also have a website that you can visit. Consignment makes it easier for owners to sell their classic car, meaning buyers get to enjoy a wider range of choices.

If you don’t see your dream classic car right away, don’t worry: the Classic Car Deals sales team will do their best to help you find your ideal classic car or truck. This company has consignment cars all over the country.

Call Classic Car Deals once you’ve found your ideal classic car to double check on the location. They provide an easy and hassle-free way for you to shop classic cars for sale nationwide, offering the widest selection of vintage, exotic, and collectible cars and pickup trucks.

Your first step to buying your dream car is to contact one of their reps today. Visit their Consignment page today for more details.