HB 5685 Summary

• Changes vehicle registration violations from misdemeanor criminal offenses to civil infractions for driving unregistered vehicles, failing to transfer titles, or operating with improper plates.

• Modifies language in registration statutes from mandatory criminal liability ("It is a misdemeanor") to civil infraction responsibility ("responsible for a civil infraction").

• Updates temporary registration plate provisions to clarify procedures for dealers and repossession agents, including serial numbering requirements and destruction of temporary plates upon receipt of regular registration.

• Revises title transfer procedures to clarify the secretary of state's role in issuing certificates and specifies a $15 transfer fee if registration is not completed within 15 days.

• Amends nonresident vehicle operation rules to allow temporary 72-hour permits for transportation-for-hire vehicles and clarifies procedures for fleet operators to obtain temporary registrations.

• Effective only if House Bill 5802 is enacted into law.