Missouri Antique Vehicle Registration Laws

Owning an antique vehicle in Missouri comes with special privileges—and unique requirements. The Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) allows for the registration of antique vehicles under specific guidelines meant to preserve historical integrity and limit modern usage. Here's everything you need to know to stay compliant.

What Qualifies as an Antique Vehicle in Missouri

According to Missouri law, an "antique motor vehicle" is any vehicle that is at least 25 years old and is used solely for exhibitions, parades, car club activities, or similar uses. These vehicles must not be used for general daily transportation except under limited conditions.

Registration Process

To register your antique vehicle in Missouri, you must:

1. Submit a completed Application for Missouri Title and License (Form 108).
2. Provide proof of ownership, such as a prior title or a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO).
3. Present a completed and notarized Application for Historic or Year of Manufacture License Plates (Form 5695).
4. Pay the registration fee—a one-time fee of $25 for an antique plate, in addition to any local taxes or surcharges.

Missouri Car Title and Registration Steps provides further instructions if your antique vehicle also needs a new title.

License Plate Options

Antique vehicles may use one of the following plate types:

• Standard Antique Plates: Issued by the DOR specifically for antique vehicles.
• Year of Manufacture Plates: Owners can use authentic Missouri plates from the vehicle’s model year, provided the plate number is not already in use.

Usage Restrictions

Antique vehicles are not to be used for general transportation. However, Missouri law allows:

• One day per week of general driving, without specifying which day.
• Unlimited use for official exhibitions, parades, tours, and car club events.
• Driving to and from a repair or maintenance facility.

Failure to comply with usage restrictions could lead to fines or revocation of antique status.

Insurance Requirements

Even though antique vehicles are not used frequently, they must still carry valid insurance meeting Missouri's minimum liability coverage. For current insurance requirements, consult the Missouri Insurance Requirements for Drivers.

Emissions and Safety Inspections

Antique vehicles registered with antique plates are exempt from Missouri’s biennial emissions and safety inspection requirements, unless they are used as regular transport.

Renewals and Transfers

• No annual renewal is required for antique plates, as the fee is a one-time payment.
• If selling or gifting the vehicle, the antique status does not automatically transfer. The new owner must apply for antique registration under their name.

For help with title transfers or re-registration, see Transfer of Out‑of‑State Registration to Missouri.

Important Considerations

Before registering your vehicle as an antique, consider your intended use. If you plan to drive it regularly, a standard registration might be more appropriate. Keep in mind that misuse of an antique registration can result in penalties under Missouri law.

For those who occasionally drive their antique car to events or on scenic routes, this status offers a cost-effective and legally compliant path to preserving your vehicle’s history while enjoying it on the road.

Check out the Renewing Missouri Registration After Deadline resource in case you miss an application or plate deadline for any reason.