Most states have titling and registration laws that require residents to title and register their cars in the state—and for new residents of the state to do so within some period of time, such as 30 days. Some states require titled cars to pass a comprehensive safety inspection. And some states also require cars owned by residents of certain counties to pass an emissions test/inspection designed to improve air quality in more densely populated counties.
In Arizona, residents are required to title and register their vehicles with the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). New residents must title and register their vehicles within 15 days of establishing residency. This process involves submitting the necessary documentation, paying applicable fees, and obtaining Arizona license plates. Additionally, Arizona mandates emissions testing for vehicles in certain urban areas, primarily in Phoenix and Tucson metro areas, to ensure compliance with air quality standards. Vehicles that are required to undergo emissions testing must do so every one or two years, depending on the vehicle's age and type. However, Arizona does not require a state-wide safety inspection for vehicles to be titled and registered.