Northern Mariana Islands Vehicle Registration Fees by Age

Northern Mariana Islands vehicle registration fee based on vehicle age and type can be confusing if you don’t know the exact tiers. The CNMI Division of Motor Vehicles sets different rates depending on whether you’re registering a passenger car, truck, motorcycle, or commercial vehicle, and how old it is. As of 2026, these fees are clearly defined but not always easy to find in one place.

We’ve broken down the current structure so you can see exactly what you’ll pay before you visit the DMV. Here’s how the system works and where your vehicle fits in.

Commercial vehicles have higher rates. Late fees apply after the deadline.

How CNMI Vehicle Registration Fees Work by Age and Type

The CNMI DMV uses two main factors to calculate your fee: vehicle type and vehicle age. Type includes passenger cars, trucks, motorcycles, commercial vehicles, and trailers. Age is grouped into brackets like 0, 2 years, 3, 5 years, and 6+ years.

Each combination has a set fee. A 1-year-old passenger car pays a different rate than a 7-year-old motorcycle. The system is straightforward once you know where your vehicle falls.

Quick Fee Lookup: What You’ll Pay Based on Your Vehicle

Here’s a snapshot of the current fees as of 2026.

If your vehicle doesn’t fit neatly into one of these categories, the DMV will classify it based on its primary use and weight.

Fee Breakdown by Vehicle Type

Passenger Cars

Most sedans, hatchbacks, and coupes fall under this category. The fee drops as the vehicle ages, starting at $50 for the newest models.

Trucks & SUVs

Trucks and SUVs are grouped together and cost slightly more than passenger cars. A 0, 2-year-old truck registers at $60.

Motorcycles

Motorcycles have the lowest fees, starting at $30 for new models. The rate decreases to $20 for bikes 6+ years old.

Commercial Vehicles

Business-use vehicles, including vans and heavy trucks, pay the highest fees. A new commercial vehicle costs $100 to register.

Trailers

Trailers are the least expensive to register, with fees ranging from $15 to $25.

Fee Breakdown by Vehicle Age

Age brackets determine how much you pay. The DMV groups vehicles by model year, not purchase date.

0–2 Years Old

Newer vehicles fall in this bracket. A 2024 or 2025 model pays the highest fee for its category.

3–5 Years Old

This bracket covers vehicles like a 2020, 2022 model. Fees drop by $10, $15 compared to the newest bracket.

6–10 Years Old

Vehicles from 2015 to 2019 sit in this range. The fee reduction continues, but not dramatically.

11+ Years Old

Older cars and motorcycles get the lowest rates. A 2013 or older vehicle pays the minimum fee for its type.

The age brackets reset every year based on the current calendar year.

Step-by-Step: How to Register Your Vehicle in CNMI

First, gather all required documents. You’ll need the title, proof of insurance, and a completed registration application.

Next, visit your local DMV office. Saipan handles most registrations, but Tinian and Rota also offer services.

At the DMV, submit your documents and pay the fee. They’ll issue your registration sticker and plates.

Do I Need an Inspection First?

No vehicle inspection is required for registration in the CNMI. Just the paperwork and payment are enough.

Can I Register Online?

The CNMI DMV does not offer full online registration. You’ll still need to visit in person or by mail with payment.

Documents You’ll Need (No Exceptions)

Missing paperwork is the #1 reason registrations get delayed. Here’s exactly what you need to bring.

What If I Lost My Title?

You’ll need to request a duplicate title from the DMV before registering. The process takes a few days and may require a small fee.

Do I Need Insurance Before Registering?

Yes. The CNMI requires proof of liability insurance before you can register any vehicle.

Where to Register: Saipan, Tinian, and Rota DMV Offices

The CNMI has three DMV locations, one on each main island.

Saipan DMV

The main office is on Saipan. It handles the highest volume and offers the most consistent hours.

Tinian DMV

Tinian’s office is smaller and sees fewer visitors. Hours may be limited, so call ahead.

Rota DMV

Rota’s DMV is the smallest of the three. Service may be intermittent due to staffing.

Travel Tips

If you’re on Tinian or Rota, consider waiting until you’re on Saipan to register. The larger office has shorter wait times and more staff.

Late Fees and Penalties You Want to Avoid

Missing your registration deadline costs more than just the base fee. A late fee of $10, $25 applies if you register within 30 days of expiration. After 30 days, the penalty increases to $50 or more.

Driving with an expired registration is a traffic violation. Officers can ticket you on the spot.

How to Avoid Late Fees

Set a calendar reminder before your registration expires. The DMV sends renewal notices by mail, but don’t rely on them.

If you’ve already missed the deadline, go to the DMV as soon as possible. Paying the late fee quickly stops the penalties from growing.

Common Mistakes That Delay Your Registration

Missing documents top the list. Many applicants show up without the title or proof of insurance.

Another frequent issue is mismatched information. Your name on the title must match your ID exactly.

What If My Vehicle Has a Lien?

You can still register it, but the lienholder must be listed on the title.

Can I Use a Copy of the Title?

No. The DMV requires the original title or a certified copy.

FAQs About CNMI Vehicle Registration Fees

Final Tip: How to Double-Check Your Fee Before You Go

Use the fee table earlier in this guide to estimate your cost. Match your vehicle’s type and age bracket to the corresponding fee.

If you’re unsure, call the DMV office. They can confirm your fee over the phone if you provide your vehicle’s details.

Bring exact change or a card to cover the fee. The DMV doesn’t always have change for large bills.