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How to Register a Custom or Antique Vehicle in Connecticut

Updated on Thu, 4/28/2011

Like most other motor vehicles, custom-built and antique vehicles must be properly registered and titled in the state of Connecticut. However, the process of registering an antique or custom-built vehicle is slightly different from registering a regular vehicle. If you have brought an antique or custom-built vehicle into Connecticut for a first time registration, or if you have custom-assembled a vehicle in the State, you will be referred to a DMV office near you.

WHAT ARE ANTIQUE AND CUSTOM BUILT VEHICLES?

  • In Connecticut, an antique vehicle is defined as any motor vehicle that was manufactured at least twenty years ago. They are also called Early American vehicles and are used as collector's items.
  • The State defines a custom-built vehicle as any motor vehicle that has been assembled or completely reconstructed using new or used parts. They are also called Composite Vehicles. Custom vehicles are registered with the make as "custom-built." The model year will be the year in which the vehicle was built.

HOW TO REGISTER AN ANTIQUE OR CUSTOM BUILT VEHICLE

Before you visit the DMV office for registration, you will have to schedule a complete inspection for the vehicle. Inspections are done only at the Wethersfield location and you can schedule an appointment by calling the DMV customer center. You have to take it on a trailer without driving the vehicle to the inspection office since it is not registered yet. You will need the following documents for the inspection:
  1. A completed inspection application.
  2. Two photographs of the vehicle.
  3. Bills of sale for all parts used, or if applicable, certificates of titles.
Once you have passed inspection and the vehicle has been assigned a VIN, you can proceed to a DMV office near you to register your antique or custom-built vehicle. This process is the same as registering any motor vehicle. For a vehicle manufactured prior to 1981, including antique vehicles, you will be required to submit the following documents to the Commissioner:
  1. Proof of Connecticut residency.
  2. A completed Application for Title.
  3. Proper identification.
  4. Four color photographs including all four sides of the vehicle.
  5. Proof of VIN verification by the DMV.
  6. Proof that sales tax has been paid.
  7. A notarized statement stating that the vehicle is not a replica or imitation and that it has been maintained or modified to conform to original manufacturing specifications.

FEES

When registering an antique or custom-built vehicle, you will be required to pay the $88 inspection fee along with the $50 VIN fee and appropriate titling and registration fees. The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles accepts cash, money orders or checks.

RENEWING A CUSTOM-BUILT OR ANTIQUE VEHICLE REGISTRATION

Your custom-built or antique vehicle's registration will clearly indicate when it will expire. The process for renewing the registration on a custom or antique vehicle is the same as renewing the registration on a regular motor vehicle.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION