How to Register a Financed Vehicle Out of State

How to Register a Financed Vehicle Out of State

South Dakota vs. Montana LLC

If you’re looking to register a financed vehicle out of state, you’re not alone. Many vehicle owners and RV enthusiasts want to save on sales tax, keep their registrations legal nationwide, and simplify paperwork — especially when moving, traveling, or storing vehicles seasonally.

Two of the most effective (and completely legal) ways to do this are:
✅ Registering in South Dakota, or
✅ Registering through a Montana LLC

Both methods offer major benefits — and with Montana’s new ability to issue temporary tags in as little as 24 hoursand custom license plate options, there’s never been a better time to explore your options.

Option 1: Register Your Financed Vehicle in South Dakota

If your car, RV, or truck still has a loan, South Dakota is one of the simplest and most lender-friendly states for out-of-state registration.

Why South Dakota Works

  • 💰 Low 4% sales tax (far below the national average)

  • 🏠 No residency requirement — register from anywhere in the U.S.

  • ⚡ Fast, straightforward process — no LLC or additional setup needed

Your vehicle remains titled in your name, which keeps your lender’s lien intact. This makes South Dakota a perfect fit for financed vehicles where the bank requires personal ownership.

How It Works

  1. Choose your South Dakota registration service.

  2. We handle the paperwork preparation.

  3. You sign and return your forms.

  4. The South Dakota DMV issues your new title and plates.

That’s it — once your order is placed, we manage everything else, ensuring your vehicle is legally registered and road-ready.

Option 2: Register Through a Montana LLC (With Lender Approval)

For buyers focused on maximum tax savings and flexibility, the Montana LLC registration program is the top choice. It’s the best way to eliminate sales tax and gain more control over how your vehicle is titled and registered.

If your vehicle is financed, you’ll just need written approval from your bank or lender before we can complete the process.

Why Lender Approval Is Important

Most financing contracts require vehicles to be titled under the borrower’s personal name. However, many lenders are open to titling through an LLC — as long as they receive a clear explanation and issue a brief Letter of Authorization. Once approved, you can title and register your financed vehicle under your Montana LLC and unlock huge savings.

Why Choose a Montana LLC

  • 🚫 No sales tax: Montana is one of the few states with zero sales tax, which can save you thousands on high-value vehicles.

  • ⏱️ Temporary tags available in as little as 24 hours: Get on the road fast while your permanent plates are processed.

  • 🏢 LLC ownership & privacy: Register your vehicle under your Montana LLC for added legal protection and flexibility.

  • 🚗 Register multiple vehicles: One LLC can hold multiple vehicles, reducing long-term costs.

  • 🏁 Custom license plates available: Choose from Montana’s wide selection of plate styles and designs to personalize your registration.

Montana LLC Registration Process

  1. Purchase your Montana LLC registration package.

  2. Complete the quick online order form.

  3. Receive, review, and sign your paperwork.

  4. Upload or mail the forms using the prepaid envelope.

  5. Once approved, receive your temporary tags (often within 24 hours) so you can drive immediately.

  6. We handle all DMV filings and ship your permanent or custom plates directly to you.

If your vehicle is financed, simply send us your lender’s approval letter so we can complete your order without delay.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Situation Recommended Option
You have a financed vehicle and your lender won’t approve LLC titling South Dakota Registration
You want the biggest tax savings and your lender approves LLC ownership Montana LLC Registration
You need plates fast or want a personalized design Montana LLC Registration 
You’re registering multiple vehicles or RVs Montana LLC Registration
You just need a quick one-time out-of-state registration South Dakota Registration

Both states offer great solutions — but Montana’s temporary tag program and custom plate options make it especially appealing for buyers who want immediate registration, privacy, and long-term savings.

Final Thoughts

If your vehicle is financed, South Dakota offers the easiest path with minimal lender involvement. But if your bank approves LLC titling, Montana delivers unmatched flexibility, no sales tax, and the ability to get temporary tags within 24 hours — plus the option to customize your plates to match your style.

Whichever route you choose, our team handles every step — from forming your LLC to coordinating with the DMV. You’ll receive updates, guidance, and fast delivery of your plates so you can drive legally and confidently anywhere in the country.

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