How to Register a Motorcycle: Custom-Built Motorcycle Guide

It’s exactly two years since I, a skilled vehicle builder, started the construction of my dream motorcycle. Along the line, I had wanted to throw away the idea into the trash, but for the encouragement I received from friends. I felt discouraged, having repeatedly heard of the difficulty I had to face before I could register his custom-built motorcycle. But thanks to my listening ears, dogged spirit, and determination to have something to my name as a custom motorcycle constructor.

In this article, you’ll learn, relearn, and unlearn all the essential information you need to register a motorcycle that is custom-built and make it road-worthy and ride-ready. It would be best if you remembered that (depending on your state of residence) causing your custom-built masterpiece to become an official property can be tricky or demanding.

But don’t worry—once you read this post—you will clear your doubt and have a straight and clear understanding of how things work in different states across the United States. The information here does not cover the registration of antique motorcycles. The reason is that most of what we have as custom bikes today are not built from antique parts. Two, the process of registering antique bikes is rather complex. 

What Does a New Custom-Built Motorcycle Mean?

Now, we shall take my case as a typical example for review. When I, as an individual, assemble different major components like aftermarket parts made by an authorized frame manufacturer, the end product is called a custom built motorcycle. A home built motorcycle frame will not have a VIN until it is assigned one by the state.

Other than a manufacturing plant or company, an individual who brings together new motorcycle components produced by registered manufacturers is a custom builder. The motorcycle parts the builder purchased from the authorized manufacturer often come with a receipt and the Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MSO).

The second thing you must know is that a new custom motorcycle is built for private use, not resale. That is why it is not built by licensed manufacturers but by individuals with the requisite skills and expertise to build their own custom motorcycle.

Where Does The Process Start? 

To make the process less cumbersome, finding out how to register a custom motorcycle or chopper should begin long before you present your finished motorcycle at the local registration center. Before you buy any part of the motorcycle or continue with the build process, the entire registration process should have begun. The direct advice is that the moment you conceive the idea of piercing a motorcycle in your garage, you should also start thinking of how to register the final product. 

Registering your new custom motorcycle begins with knowing the regulations that guide motorcycle registration in the State of the Union where you live. This is because each State’s DMV operates its law and requests custom bike registration and different legal documents. 

Essentials to Register New Custom Motorcycle

To avoid getting into the DMV and having your registration delayed or difficult, you must prepare some things beforehand. These details, however insignificant they may appear to be, if not adequately attended to, can cause you your vehicle registration.

1. Title of Ownership

Your title is proof that the motorcycle belongs to you. It’s also the official document that confers ownership of you. When purchasing the frame or engine block, ensure the vin number matches what you have on the Title of Ownership. It eases the process of proving your ownership and facilitates transferable registration if you decide to sell.

Whether you purchase a new frame or build your own frame, there are forms you must fill. When you get to the FAQs section of this article, your questions will be answered. Keep reading.

If you purchase a frame with VIN, things get easier. Also, take your local department seriously as a key partner in this process.

Ensure you have documentation for all major components you purchase or build. Lack of paperwork may lead to complications in the registration process. Even if all parts are insured, verify their origin and keep the receipts and bill of sale. Documentation from the building process, including invoices and bills of sale, should be kept in a file.

2. Custom Motorcycle Safety Inspection

This is a crucial part of the process. I remember when I took my first custom motorcycle for inspection. The law enforcement officer asked, “How safe is this brand new custom-built motorcycle?” I was unprepared and lost my chance to register one of my best builds. A safety inspection is required in many states before a custom motorcycle can be registered.

Safety inspection involves checking the road readiness of your custom built motorcycle. The law enforcement officer and inspection agent will verify if the VIN numbers on your parts match those on the Manufacturer’s Certificate. Keep all receipts, bills, and paperwork for your engine, transmission, frame, and body parts.

Also ensure your custom motorcycle meets motor vehicles standards, using high-quality, certified major components. You may hire a local custom build shop to do a pre-inspection and advise you before the official law enforcement officer inspection.

3. Emissions Certification

Many builders title for motorcycle projects fail because they skip this step. States require emissions checks that include exhaust and sound levels. Your custom build must meet these standards to obtain certification. Even if your local department doesn’t require it, it’s advisable to get it done.

Visit your dmv website or local dmv for state-specific emissions requirements. Being proactive avoids unnecessary delays in your registration process.

4. Builders Title for Motorcycle Limitations

That you’re allowed to build a custom motorcycle does not mean you can build as many as you want within a year. States limit the number of titles you can own within a year. If you build past the threshold, you will not have titles for as many custom motorcycles you build. Some states limit the number of builder’s titles one can obtain within a year without being a licensed business.

Generally, some states limit the number to six; for others, the threshold is 10 titles per year. Again, if you plan to build multiple custom motorcycles, seek advice; find out the number of titles you can apply for in your state. Some states will register you as a dealer or business owner if you exceed the threshold.

5. Finalizing the Details of Your Registration Process

We are nearing the end of the registration process for your custom-built motorcycle. Assuming you have gathered all necessary documents, the next step is to book an appointment with your local DMV. Be prepared to pay registration fees, which vary by state and apply whether you’re a first-time builder or renewing a title. Check your local DMV’s policies for exact fee details.

6. Insuring is as Important as Building Your Motorcycle

Insurance is the key that unlocks peace of mind while riding a motorcycle. You can’t complete your vehicle registration without a policy.

You must be ready to show your level of preparedness to have your motorcycle registered by showing all information and documents regarding your custom motorcycle insurance policy to the registrar at the DMV office.

How to Renew Motorcycle Registration

You can renew your registration documents every year. Typically, the DMV office will send you a reminder to bring to your awareness that your papers have expired or are edging towards expiry. 

You need to renew the registration yearly, and there are four different means through which you can renew your registration. They include personal information by mail, phone, or online. Depending on your state, each of these methods is viable and effective. Contact your local DMV office to determine which method applies to your state.

Renewal in Person

This is the best-advised way to get your custom-built motorcycle registration done with little hassle. All you need to do is to show up at your local DMV office with the renewal notice you receive. Added to that are your license and proof of renewal fee payment. At that point, you’ll get your new registration certificate and stickers.

Renewal via Mail

If you can’t go to your DMV office, you can renew your motorcycle registration by mail. Simply respond to your renewal notice, send a copy of your proof of insurance to your state’s DMV, and you’ll receive your new registration certificate and stickers by mail.

Renewal via Phone

You must have your VIN, registration renewal notice, and license plate number ready. Call your local DMV office, provide your payment method, and after processing, your new registration certificate and stickers will be mailed to you.

Online Renewal

Every DMV office has a website where you can renew your registration online in some states. You’ll receive a renewal notice, and to complete the process, you’ll need to provide proof of insurance, smog certification (if required), your Vehicle Identification Number, and payment method. After renewal, your new registration and stickers will be mailed to you.

Challenges in Titling Motorcycles

Salvage branding significantly complicates the titling process for motorcycles, as it indicates that the bike has previously been damaged or deemed a total loss by an insurance company. This branding can affect the bike’s value and legal status, requiring additional inspections and paperwork to prove that the motorcycle is safe and roadworthy. Additionally, titles for motorcycles can get lost over time, which further complicates registration by making it difficult to verify ownership and history. In such cases, owners must often go through a lengthy process to obtain replacement titles, which may involve submitting detailed documentation, proof of ownership, and sometimes even bonded titles to satisfy state requirements and ensure the motorcycle can be legally registered and ridden.

Documents and Items Required at Motorcycle Registration Offices

You have made all necessary arrangements, and it is time to visit your local DMV office for the final appointment. What documents and items will the office require of you as you step in? Here are the things you shouldn’t forget to accompany to the motorcycle registration center. Remember, some states may require more or less. You’ll need to find out what the local registration office needs. 

• A completed Title or Registration Application 
• A Vehicle safety inspection certificate
• A filled-out Statement of Construction.
• Proof of insurance
• Emission Inspection certificates
• Proof of payment of the registration fee
• Your Out-of-State Registration (applicable to a new builder or someone who buys his components and parts outside the state of his residence)
• Documents showing Proof of ownership, such as receipts and bills for sale. Depending on the state, a notary may be asked to review and verify the documents you present.
• Sales tax and registration fees are due.

What’s more, the motorcycle registration application form is right here. The sample below is for Oregon; there may be variations when you compare it to other states’ application forms. You can check with your local DMV office to have an accurate application. The internet is also there for you to use if you need to download the application as it applies to your state of residence.

Here are related common questions.

Can I register a motorcycle with no frame number?

It asks if a candidate can become US president without the Electoral College. Your guess is as good as mine. Regardless of the legal jurisdiction or the laws of the State of the Union, you cannot register an unfinished frame. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) considers the frame as being the bike. At every point in time, a new frame requires a new number. It becomes difficult to prove how old your frame is if the serial number doesn’t have a serial number.

What does a Q-registration mean?

You’ll need to visit DVLA website to get the full details of the process of a Q-registration. A Q registration stands for a kit motorcycle or rebuild, which differs from an original registration.

How do I recover a lost motorcycle title?

First, your motorcycle title is the document that confers ownership of the vehicle on you. When you sell the bike, your signature is also needed on the title to sign it over to the bike’s new owner. And even though replacing and recovering your lost motorcycle title may seem seamless and simple, it is better to avoid losing the proof. Keep it safe and secure in a fireproof or water-resistant safe or a safety deposit box at a bank. 

Now, let’s get back to your question. There are three steps to replace your lost motorcycle title. Ensure you have copies of the following documents: Vehicle Identification Number, Photo ID, Year and make of motorcycle, and License plate number.

• Go to your state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website
• Search for “Title Replacement” or “Request a Title.” Page and open the application form.
• Complete the application form by entering your name, address, city, and state. Fill in the field for the vehicle identification number of the motorcycle, as well as, the year and make of the bike and the license plate number.

What do I do if I purchase a frame without a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?

It is simple. If you buy a frame or engine with no VIN, you need to acquire the MSO from the seller. This will show that you have legally acquired those components. Temporarily, you can use the MSO pending the time the VIN will be issued to you. But do not forget to discuss with your local registration center how you can obtain your VIN.

Do I need a VIN if I built (not bought) my own frame?

That’s a brainer. You won’t need a VIN if you’re the builder of your frame or engine. No local registration office will demand a VIN or MSO from you if the frame it’s built. But you must follow the procedure. Typically, the registration office will issue you a home-built VIN permanently attached to the vehicle’s frame. Do not take that for granted. You can be the first to approach the registration for this home-built VIN. Ensure you ask for a conspicuous location where the VIN will be pasted on your frame for easy identification.

What if my components have different titles?

There is nothing to worry about if you have multiple parts with different titles. It doesn’t mean you have been scammed or won’t be able to get your new construction registered. You’ll approach your local registration office for advice on what to do. Usually, you should complete all inquiries regarding this before you go ahead and buy the salvaged part.

You now have all the information at your fingertips concerning registering your custom-constructed motorcycle across states. You know it is not so much about your passion for building a custom motorcycle. The legal framework and operational guidelines of your state of residence and local DMV offices are important considerations when building a custom motorcycle.

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