Chapter 803 — Vehicle Title and Registration
2001 EDITION
TITLES
(Generally)
(1) The original certificate of title issued by the Department of Transportation;
(2) A salvage title certificate issued by the department; or
(3) The department records as provided under ORS 802.240. [1983 c.338 §174; 1991 c.873 §29]
(2) Rules adopted under this section may require or allow different forms of title for different purposes or for different persons.
(3) Rules adopted under this section may include fee structures that vary for different forms of title but in no case may the department charge more than the fees established for similar title transactions under ORS 803.090. [1993 c.233 §6]
(1) The certificate shall be numbered in a manner prescribed by the department.
(2) The certificate shall contain a description of the vehicle.
(3) The certificate shall contain evidence of identification of the vehicle the department deems proper.
(4) The certificate shall contain the name of the owner of the vehicle.
(5) The certificate shall identify any security interest holders in the order of their priority. This subsection does not apply to the security interests where the debtor who granted the security interest is in the business of selling vehicles and the vehicle constitutes inventory held for sale or lease.
(6) The certificate shall identify any lessor of the vehicle.
(7) The certificate shall be authenticated by a seal of the State of Oregon printed on the certificate.
(8) The certificate shall have space to fill in information required by the department upon the transfer of a vehicle under ORS 803.094 and space for the odometer disclosure required on transfer of an interest under ORS 803.102.
(9) If the vehicle is a reconstructed vehicle, the certificate shall:
(a) Show the original year model and make of the vehicle.
(b) Indicate that the vehicle is reconstructed. A certificate of title shall not indicate that a vehicle is reconstructed as otherwise required by this paragraph if the reconstructed vehicle is an antique vehicle.
(10) If the vehicle is an assembled vehicle, the certificate shall:
(a) Show the make of the vehicle as "assembled."
(b) Show the year the building of the vehicle is completed as the year model of the vehicle.
(11) The certificate shall show the mileage of the vehicle as reported to the department at the time the most recent title transfer was reported to the department, or the mileage reported to the department at the time the vehicle was initially titled in Oregon, whichever occurred last. The information required by this subsection shall be shown as reported to the department on odometer disclosure reports required by law to be submitted to the department.
(12) If the vehicle is a replica, the certificate shall indicate that the vehicle is a replica.
(13) If the vehicle has been reported to the department as a totaled vehicle under the provisions of ORS 819.012 or 819.014, the certificate shall contain the word "totaled" unless the reason for the report was theft and the vehicle has been recovered.
(14) The certificate shall contain any other information required by the department, including but not limited to brands or other notations the department requires.
(15) The certificate shall be produced by a secure process that meets or exceeds the requirements of federal law. [1983 c.338 §175; 1985 c.16 §58; 1985 c.251 §14; 1985 c.253 §1; 1985 c.402 §6; 1987 c.127 §1; 1989 c.148 §8; 1991 c.820 §9; 1991 c.873 §7; 1993 c.233 §14; 2001 c.293 §1; 2001 c.445 §183]
Note: For transition provisions regarding secured transactions, see notes under 79.0628.
803.016 Titles in form other than certificate. If title to a vehicle is not to be issued in the form of a certificate, the record of title kept by the Department of Transportation shall include all information required by ORS 803.015. Nothing in this section requires that title issued in a form other than a certificate:
(1) Be numbered as required by ORS 803.015 (1);
(2) Be authenticated as required by ORS 803.015 (7);
(3) Have the space required by ORS 803.015 (8); or
(4) Be produced by a secure process as required by ORS 803.015 (15). [1993 c.233 §16; 2001 c.293 §2]
803.020 [1985 c.251 §14a; repealed by 1991 c.873 §53]
(2) Exemptions from this section are established by ORS 803.030. The exemptions are subject to ORS 803.040.
(3) The offense described in this section, violating vehicle title requirements, is a Class D traffic violation. [1983 c.338 §176; 1985 c.16 §59; 1985 c.333 §4; 1993 c.233 §17; 1995 c.383 §35]
803.030 Exemptions from title requirement. This section establishes exemptions from the requirements under ORS 803.025 to obtain title issued by this state. The exemptions are subject to ORS 803.040. The exemptions are in addition to any exemptions under ORS 801.026. Vehicles exempted by this section from the requirements to be titled by this state are not prohibited from being titled by this state if titling is permitted under ORS 803.035. The exemptions are partial or complete as provided in the following:
(1) Title from this state is not required for a vehicle unless the vehicle is operated on a highway in this state.
(2) Title from this state is not required unless a vehicle is operated under a registration number of this state.
(3) Manufactured structures are subject to ORS 803.025 as provided under ORS 820.500 and 820.530.
(4) Snowmobiles, Class I all-terrain vehicles and Class III all-terrain vehicles are not subject to the requirements under ORS 803.025. The requirements and procedures for titling snowmobiles are as provided under ORS 821.060 and 821.070.
(5) Road rollers, farm tractors and traction engines are exempt from the requirements for title.
(6) Trolleys are exempt from the requirements for title.
(7) Bicycles are exempt from the requirements for title.
(8) United States Government owned and operated motor vehicles and trailers are exempt from the requirements for title.
(9) Implements of husbandry, well drilling machinery, emergency fire apparatus providing public fire protection and invalid chairs are exempt from the requirements for title.
(10) Fixed load vehicles are exempt from the requirements for title while operated within the immediate construction project, as described in the governmental agency contract, in the construction or reconstruction of state or county roads, highways or city streets.
(11) Motor vehicles designed to operate at a loaded weight over 8,000 pounds, trailers and equipment are exempt from requirements for title while:
(a) Owned, leased, contracted or requisitioned by the State Forester, State Board of Forestry, their contractors under ORS chapter 477, or the federal government; and
(b) Being used for the purposes of forest protection and fire suppression under ORS chapter 477 or a similar federal statute, including movement of the vehicles to and from the work area.
(12) Farm trailers are exempt from requirements for title when the operation or movement of the vehicle upon the highways is incidental to its use in an agricultural operation.
(13) Golf carts operated under an ordinance adopted under ORS 810.070 are exempt from requirements for title.
(14) Golf carts or similar vehicles are exempt from requirements for title when:
(a) They have not less than three wheels in contact with the ground;
(b) They have an unloaded weight of less than 1,300 pounds;
(c) They are designed to be and are operated at not more than 15 miles per hour; and
(d) They are operated by disabled persons.
(15) The nonresident owners of vehicles currently registered and titled in any other country, state or territory may operate such vehicles over the highways of this state without complying with the titling requirements under ORS 803.025. All of the following apply to this subsection:
(a) This subsection only provides an exemption so long as the owner satisfactorily shows that the owner is not a resident of this state as described under ORS 803.200.
(b) The exemption under this subsection applies to vehicles granted exemptions under ORS 802.500, 802.520 or 826.005, unless otherwise provided under paragraph (c) of this subsection.
(c) Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph, a vehicle operated over the highways of this state for compensation or profit must comply with the titling requirements under ORS 803.025 in the same manner as required of nontitled vehicles. The following vehicles are not subject to this paragraph:
(A) Vehicles operated under reciprocal registration exemptions established under ORS 802.500 or 826.005.
(B) Vehicles operated under an exemption established under ORS 802.520.
(C) Vehicles that are proportionally registered under an agreement established under ORS 826.007, and according to the procedures established under ORS 826.009 or 826.011.
(D) Any vehicle if duly registered and titled under the laws of the state or country of which the owner is a bona fide resident to the extent that in the foreign country, state, territory or federal district where the owner resides like exemptions and privileges are granted vehicles duly registered and titled under the laws of this state and owned by residents of this state.
(d) If no exemptions from titling requirements are in effect under ORS 802.500, 802.520, 826.005 or 826.007 with respect to another jurisdiction, any vehicle properly registered and titled in such other jurisdiction and for which evidence of compliance is supplied shall receive, when operated in this state, the same exemptions, benefits and privileges granted by such other jurisdictions to vehicles properly registered and titled in this state. Reciprocity extended under this paragraph shall apply to commercial vehicles only when engaged exclusively in interstate commerce.
(e) Any vehicle operated under dealer registration plates issued by another state, country, province, territory or the District of Columbia is subject to this subsection.
(16) Vehicle dealers issued certificates under ORS 822.020 may use and operate untitled vehicles as provided under ORS 822.040.
(17) Towing businesses issued certificates under ORS 822.205 may tow untitled vehicles as provided under ORS 822.210.
(18) Vehicle transporters issued certificates under ORS 822.310 may transport untitled vehicles as provided in ORS 822.310.
(19) Untitled vehicles may be operated under trip permits described under ORS 803.600 or under permits described under ORS 803.610 to 803.625.
(20) Vehicles that are registered by the United States Department of State and that are owned or operated by foreign nationals with diplomatic immunity are exempt from the requirements for title.
(21)(a) Vehicles that are registered under the proportional registration provisions of ORS chapter 826 and are titled in a jurisdiction other than Oregon are exempt from the requirements for title.
(b) A trailer that is registered under the proportional registration provisions of ORS chapter 826 and titled in a jurisdiction other than Oregon shall remain exempt from the requirements for title in Oregon if the trailer is registered when the other jurisdiction removes its exception to proportional registration requirements for the trailer.
(22) Converter dollies and tow dollies are exempt from the requirements for title. [1983 c.338 §177; 1985 c.16 §60; 1985 c.333 §5; 1985 c.401 §1; 1985 c.459 §3; 1985 c.668 §6; 1987 c.25 §1; 1989 c.43 §17; 1989 c.991 §24; 1991 c.284 §13; 1991 c.459 §438f; 1991 c.477 §1; 1993 c.233 §18; 1995 c.774 §10; 1999 c.361 §1; 1999 c.977 §18; 2001 c.827 §1]
803.035 Optional titling; rules. (1) The Department of Transportation, by rule, may provide for optional titling of vehicles that are not subject to the vehicle titling requirements under ORS 803.025 or that are exempt from vehicle titling requirements by ORS 803.030. The rules adopted for purposes of this subsection may provide for the titling of categories of vehicles, types of vehicles or otherwise. Upon request of an owner, the department may issue title for a vehicle that meets the requirements of rules adopted under this section.
(2) A vehicle that is issued title under this section is subject to the same provisions, conditions, fees and other requirements for titling as are other vehicles under the vehicle code and is subject to ORS 803.040. [1985 c.333 §2; 1993 c.233 §19]
(a) The vehicle becomes legally titled under the laws of another jurisdiction.
(b) The owner of the vehicle establishes that the vehicle is no longer subject to the vehicle titling requirements under the vehicle code by a method recognized or established by the Department of Transportation.
(c) A salvage title is issued for the vehicle.
(2) Subsection (1) of this section applies to a vehicle issued title by this state even if one of the following applies to the vehicle:
(a) At some time after issuance of the title by this state, the vehicle becomes eligible for an exemption from titling requirements under ORS 803.030 or for any other reason.
(b) The issuance of the title was permissive under ORS 803.035.
(c) The vehicle is not required to comply with vehicle titling provisions of the vehicle code for any reason. [1985 c.333 §3; 1991 c.873 §30; 1993 c.233 §20]
(1) The person shall satisfy the department that the person is the owner of the vehicle and is otherwise entitled to have title issued in the person’s name.
(2) Except as otherwise provided in ORS 803.050 (2) or 820.587 (5), the person shall complete an application for title described in ORS 803.050.
(3) The person shall pay the fee for issuance of a certificate of title under ORS 803.090 or the fee for issuance of title in another form, as established by the department by rule in accordance with ORS 803.012.
(4) If the vehicle is a reconstructed vehicle or an assembled vehicle, the person shall provide the following information in addition to any other information required under this section:
(a) The certificate of title last issued for the frame of the vehicle, a salvage title certificate issued for the vehicle or other evidence of ownership satisfactory to the department.
(b) Bills of sale for major components used to build the vehicle.
(5) If the vehicle is covered by an Oregon title or salvage title certificate, except as provided in ORS 820.587 (5), the applicant shall surrender the Oregon title or salvage title certificate, submit an application as provided under ORS 803.065 or submit other evidence of ownership satisfactory to the department.
(6) Unless the department adopts rules to the contrary, if the vehicle is from another jurisdiction, the applicant shall surrender to the department with the application the certificate of title issued by the other jurisdiction, if such jurisdiction requires certificates of title. If such jurisdiction does not require certificates of title, then the applicant shall surrender the registration cards.
(7) No title shall be issued by the department for a vehicle required by ORS 803.210 to be inspected unless the vehicle has been inspected as described in ORS 803.212 and the inspection fee paid under ORS 803.215.
(8) If required by the department, the person shall submit proof as described under ORS 803.205 for the purposes of establishing ownership.
(9) If the department has reason to believe a vehicle was not certified by the original manufacturer as conforming to federal vehicle standards, the department may require the applicant to provide the department with proof the department determines appropriate to establish to the satisfaction of the department that the vehicle conforms to federal vehicle standards.
(10) Unless the vehicle is exempted from odometer disclosure requirements, the applicant shall submit an appropriate odometer disclosure form. The department shall determine what constitutes an appropriate form in any particular situation. The department may make exceptions by rule to the requirement for submission of an odometer disclosure form. [1983 c.338 §178; 1985 c.16 §61; 1985 c.402 §7; 1985 c.410 §1; 1987 c.146 §5; 1989 c.148 §9; 1991 c.873 §8; 1993 c.233 §21; 2001 c.675 §7]
803.050 Application; contents. (1) An application for title required under ORS 803.045 shall be in a form specified by the Department of Transportation and shall contain all the following:
(a) A full description of the vehicle, including, but not necessarily limited to, the vehicle identification number.
(b) The name of the owner of the vehicle or other person whose name is to be shown on the title.
(c) The identity of any security interests in order of priority.
(d) The identity of the interest of any lessor.
(e) A disclosure of whether the vehicle is a replica or is specially constructed, reconstructed or assembled. If the title and registration records of the department already indicate that a vehicle is a replica or is specially constructed, reconstructed or assembled, disclosure under this subsection is not required unless the vehicle has been changed since title for the vehicle was last transferred.
(f) If the title application shows a leasehold interest, the lessor shall designate whether the lessor or the lessee is to be shown on the title as the owner of the vehicle.
(g) Any other information required by the department.
(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, the department may accept an application that does not contain everything required by this section if the department is satisfied as to the ownership of the vehicle. [1983 c.338 §180; 1985 c.16 §62; 1985 c.251 §15; 1985 c.300 §1; 1985 c.402 §8a; 1987 c.750 §3a; 1989 c.148 §10; 1991 c.551 §2; 1991 c.873 §9; 1993 c.233 §22]
(a) To the security interest holder with the highest priority.
(b) If there are no security interest holders, to the lessor.
(c) If there are no security interest holders or lessors, to the owner of the vehicle.
(2) When a salvage title certificate is issued by this state, the department shall deliver the certificate to the owner of the vehicle.
(3) The department may determine by rule whether, when, how and to whom titles issued in a form other than a certificate shall be delivered. [1983 c.338 §181; 1985 c.16 §63; 1991 c.873 §31; 1993 c.233 §23]
803.060 Renewal. A title does not require a renewal and is valid until one of the following occurs:
(1) The vehicle is destroyed, dismantled or substantially altered.
(2) Any interest reflected on the title changes. [1983 c.338 §182; 1985 c.316 §1; 1993 c.233 §24]
(a) The department is satisfied as to the loss, mutilation or destruction of a certificate of title or salvage title certificate.
(b) The fee for issuance of a duplicate or replacement certificate of title or for a salvage title certificate established under ORS 803.090 is paid.
(2) The department may accept an application for a duplicate or replacement title certificate at the time of any transfer of a vehicle under ORS 803.092. The following apply to this subsection:
(a) The department shall only accept the application if, at the time of transfer, the title certificate is lost, mutilated or destroyed.
(b) When the department accepts an application, the department may accept proof of transfer other than the certificate of title or may accept a certificate of title that has not been completed along with other proof of transfer for purposes of transferring a vehicle under ORS 803.092. The department may accept any proof of transfer under this paragraph that establishes to the satisfaction of the department that the vehicle has been transferred including, but not limited to, statements of release of interest, bills of sale, assignments of interest or other similar proof.
(c) If an application is made under this subsection, the fee for duplicate or replacement title certificate under ORS 803.090 shall be paid in addition to the transfer fee under ORS 803.090.
(d) The department may include the form for application under this subsection as part of the form for transfer of a vehicle or may make the forms separate, as the department finds convenient.
(e) The department is not required by this subsection to issue a duplicate or replacement title before transfer, but may withhold issuance of title until new title is issued upon completion of transfer.
(f) The department may adopt rules to establish procedures and requirements for effecting a transfer under ORS 803.092 when application is made under this subsection at the same time. [1983 c.338 §183; 1985 c.174 §1; 1985 c.300 §2; 1989 c.148 §11; 1991 c.873 §10]
(Offenses)
(2) The offense described in this section, false statement on title or transfer of vehicle, is a Class A misdemeanor. [1983 c.338 §184; 1985 c.393 §1; 1991 c.873 §32; 1993 c.233 §25; 1993 c.751 §21]
(2) Penalties relating to submitting a false odometer reading relating to the titling of a vehicle shall be as provided under ORS 815.430.
(3) The offense described in this section, false swearing relating to titling of vehicles, is a Class A misdemeanor. [1983 c.338 §185; 1985 c.251 §16; 1985 c.393 §2; 1991 c.873 §33; 1993 c.233 §26; 1993 c.751 §22]
(2) The offense described in this section, unlawfully publishing certificate of title forms, is a Class C felony. [1983 c.338 §186; 1991 c.873 §34]
803.085 Selling untitled vehicle prohibited; penalty. (1) A person commits the offense of selling an untitled vehicle if the person sells a vehicle without complying with the requirements under ORS 803.025 and 803.045 to obtain a title for the vehicle or the requirements of ORS 819.016 to obtain a salvage title for the vehicle, as appropriate.
(2) The offense described in this section, selling an untitled vehicle, is a Class A misdemeanor. [1983 c.338 §187; 1985 c.393 §3; 1991 c.873 §35; 1993 c.233 §27]
(Fees)
(1) The transfer fee under ORS 803.092:
(a) For a salvage title, $17.
(b) For a trailer over 8,000 pounds, a motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,000 pounds or more or a truck tractor, $90.
(c) For vehicles not described in paragraph (b) of this subsection, $30.
(2) The fee for issuance of a certificate of title under ORS 803.045 or 820.591:
(a) For a trailer over 8,000 pounds, a motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,000 pounds or more or a truck tractor, $90.
(b) For vehicles not described in paragraph (a) of this subsection, $30.
(3) The fee for issuance of a salvage title certificate under ORS 803.140, $17.
(4) The fee for issuance of a duplicate or replacement certificate of title under ORS 803.065 or 820.591:
(a) For a duplicate or replacement salvage title certificate, $17.
(b) For a trailer over 8,000 pounds, a motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,000 pounds or more or a truck tractor, $90.
(c) For a vehicle not described in paragraph (b) of this subsection, $30.
(5) The fee under subsection (4) of this section must be paid at the same time as a transfer fee under this section if application is made at the same time as application for transfer.
(6) The fee for issuance of a new certificate of title under ORS 803.220 indicating a change of name or address:
(a) For a new salvage title certificate, $17.
(b) For a trailer over 8,000 pounds, a motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,000 pounds or more or a truck tractor, $90.
(c) For a vehicle not described in paragraph (b) of this subsection, $30.
(7) The fee for late presentation of certificate of title under ORS 803.105, $25 from the 31st day after the transfer through the 60th day after the transfer and $50 thereafter.
(8) The fees for title transactions involving a form of title other than a certificate shall be the amounts established by the Department of Transportation by rule under ORS 803.012. [1983 c.338 §188; 1985 c.16 §64; 1985 c.174 §2; 1985 c.300 §3; 1985 c.315 §1; 1987 c.790 §1; 1989 c.148 §12; 1991 c.873 §11; 1993 c.233 §28; 2001 c.669 §7; 2001 c.675 §8]
(Transfer of Title or Interest)
(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, application is not required under this section when:
(a) The change involves only a change in the security interest where the security interest holder or lessor is a financial institution, a financial holding company or a bank holding company, as those terms are defined in ORS 706.008, a licensee under ORS chapter 725, or any subsidiary or affiliate of any of the foregoing and the transfer of the interest of the security interest holder or lessor:
(A) Results from the merger, conversion, reorganization, consolidation or acquisition of the security interest holder or lessor;
(B) Is to an entity that is a member of the same affiliated group as the security holder or lessor; or
(C) Is made in connection with a transfer in bulk.
(b) The vehicle is transferred to a vehicle dealer and the vehicle will become part of the dealer’s inventory for resale. Upon the transfer of a vehicle to a dealer, however, the dealer shall immediately notify the department of such transfer. This exemption from the requirement to apply for title does not apply if the department determines that application for title is necessary in order to comply with odometer disclosure requirements. If the department determines that application for title is not required, it may require filing of documents under ORS 803.126.
(c) The vehicle is to be titled in another jurisdiction.
(d) The vehicle has been totaled, wrecked, dismantled, disassembled, substantially altered or destroyed, in which case the provisions of ORS 819.010, 819.012, 819.014 or 822.135 relating to notice and surrender of title documents shall be complied with.
(e) The transfer involves the creation or termination of a leasehold interest in a vehicle that is proportionally registered under ORS 826.009 or 826.011, if the department is furnished with satisfactory proof of the lease.
(3) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the transferee shall:
(a) Submit an application that meets requirements for title under ORS 803.045 and 803.050 and any applicable rules of the department.
(b) Submit the title transfer fees as required under ORS 803.090.
(c) Comply with the provisions of ORS 803.065 and any applicable rules of the department under that statute and submit the duplicate or replacement title fee as provided under ORS 803.090, if the transfer includes an application for duplicate or replacement title and transfer of title.
(d) Submit an odometer disclosure containing information required by the department for the kind of transaction involved.
(e) Submit any late presentation of certificate of title fee as provided under ORS 803.090 if such fee is required under ORS 803.105.
(4) Notwithstanding subsections (1) and (3) of this section, if the vehicle is a manufactured structure, an application may be submitted under this section or as allowed by ORS 820.587 (5).
(5) For purposes of this section:
(a) "Affiliated group" has the meaning given to the term in section 1504(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (26 U.S.C. 1504(a)).
(b) A "transfer in bulk" is:
(A) The sale or assignment of, the grant of a security interest in, or any other transfer of either a group of loans secured by vehicles, leases of vehicles or both or a participation or other interest in the group of loans;
(B) The creation of asset-backed securities or other securing of assets involving the loans or leases; or
(C) Any similar transaction involving the loans or leases. [1989 c.148 §3; 1989 c.452 §7; 1991 c.67 §212; 1991 c.820 §14; 1991 c.873 §12; 1993 c.233 §29; 1993 c.427 §1; 1997 c.631 §554; 2001 c.377 §53; 2001 c.675 §9]
803.094 Release or assignment of title interest; rules; when and by whom required; exceptions. (1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, upon the transfer of any interest shown on an Oregon title any person whose interest is released, terminated, assigned or transferred, shall release or assign that interest in a manner specified by the Department of Transportation by rule. Rules adopted for purposes of this subsection shall be designed, as much as possible, to protect the interests of all parties to the transfer. If required under ORS 803.102, the person shall also complete an odometer disclosure statement.
(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section:
(a) In the case of a transfer by operation of law of any interest shown on an Oregon title, the personal representative, receiver, trustee, sheriff or other representative or successor in interest of the person whose interest is transferred shall release or assign interest and if required by the department by rule, as provided under ORS 803.102, complete an odometer disclosure statement and shall provide the certificate, if any, and disclosure statement if required to the transferee. The representative or successor shall also provide the transferee with information satisfactory to the department concerning all facts entitling such representative or successor to transfer title. If there is no person to assign interest, the person to whom interest is awarded or otherwise transferred shall be responsible for the requirements of this paragraph.
(b) In the case of a transfer at death of the interest of the owner, lessor or security interest holder if the estate is not being probated and title is not being transferred under the provisions of ORS 114.545, interest may be assigned through the use of an affidavit. The affidavit shall be on a form prescribed by the department and signed by all of the known heirs of the person whose interest is being transferred stating the name of the person to whom the ownership interest has been passed. If any heir has not arrived at the age of majority or is otherwise incapacitated, the parent or guardian of the heir shall sign the affidavit. In the case of a transfer under this paragraph, one of the heirs or any other person designated by the department by rule shall complete any odometer disclosure statement required under ORS 803.102.
(c) In the case of a transfer at death of the interest of the owner, lessor or security interest holder where transfer occurs under the provisions of ORS 114.545, the "affiant" as defined in ORS 114.505 is the person required to assign interest. The department may designate by rule the affiant or any other person to complete any odometer disclosure statement required under ORS 803.102.
(d) Upon the termination of a lease, in lieu of the lessee releasing interest, the lessor may provide information satisfactory to the department that the lease has been terminated. The lessor shall provide an odometer disclosure statement if required under ORS 803.102. If the lessor does not take possession of the vehicle upon termination of the lease, the information in the odometer disclosure given by the lessor may be taken from an odometer disclosure given by the lessee to the lessor under ORS 803.102 unless the lessor has reason to believe that the disclosure by the lessee does not reflect the actual mileage of the vehicle.
(e) A security interest holder or lessor, without the consent of the owner, may assign interest of the holder or lessor in a vehicle to a person other than the owner without affecting the interest of the owner or the validity or priority of the interest. A person not given notice of such assignment is protected in dealing with the security interest holder or lessor as the holder of the interest until the assignee files in accordance with ORS chapter 79. This paragraph does not exempt such assignments from title transfer requirements.
(f) If an interest in a manufactured structure is transferred pursuant to an application under ORS 820.587 (5), the recital by the escrow company that no written objections were received constitutes the release or transfer of interest by the person whose interest is released, terminated, assigned or transferred.
(3) Nothing in this section requires the release or assignment of title upon the creation or termination of a leasehold interest for a vehicle that is proportionally registered under ORS 826.009 or 826.011 if the department is furnished with satisfactory proof of the lease for such vehicle.
(4) The department by rule may allow odometer disclosure statements to be on a form other than the certificate of title.
(5) Persons subject to the provisions of this section shall provide to the transferee a title certificate, if one has been issued and is in their possession, the release or assignment of interest, and any required odometer disclosure statement. If an odometer disclosure statement is required, the transferee shall provide a signed disclosure to the transferor in a form determined by the department by rule. [1989 c.148 §2; 1991 c.67 §213; 1991 c.873 §13; 1993 c.233 §30; 2001 c.675 §10]
803.097 Perfection of security interest in vehicle. (1) Except as provided in subsection (5) of this section, the exclusive means for perfecting a security interest in a vehicle is by application for notation of the security interest on the title in accordance with this section or ORS 820.587 (5). The application may accompany the application for a title or may be made separately at any time prior to issuance of title and must be accompanied by evidence of ownership as defined by the Department of Transportation by rule or information required under ORS 820.587 (5) unless the department is in possession of evidence of ownership when it receives the application. If title to the vehicle has been issued in a form other than a certificate, and the title reflects a security interest, the application for perfection shall include authorization from the previous security interest holder for the new security interest to be recorded on the title. Authorization under this subsection is not required if:
(a) A release of interest is submitted by the prior security interest holder or the department is otherwise satisfied that the prior holder no longer holds an interest or is otherwise not entitled to title to the vehicle;
(b) The security interest is being added to the title in conjunction with the cancellation of previous title or other action the department takes to correct ownership information reflected on a title; or
(c) Title is being transferred by operation of law.
(2) When the department processes an application for a security interest the department shall mark on the application or otherwise indicate on the record the date the application was first received by the department. The department shall determine by rule what constitutes receipt of an application for purposes of this subsection.
(3) If the department has the evidence required by subsection (1) of this section and if the application contains the name of each owner of the vehicle, the name and address of the secured party and the vehicle identification number of the collateral, the security interest is perfected as of the date marked on the application or indicated in the record by the department. If the application does not contain the information required by this subsection, or if the department does not have the required evidence, the department shall indicate on the application or on the record that the date placed on the application or the record pursuant to subsection (2) of this section is not the date of perfection of the security interest.
(4) Except as provided in ORS 820.591 (2), the security interest remains effective until released or terminated by the secured party.
(5) A security interest in a vehicle may not be perfected as described under this section but is subject to the perfection provisions under ORS chapter 79 if the debtor who granted the security interest is in the business of selling vehicles and the vehicle constitutes inventory held for sale or lease. [1987 c.750 §2; 1989 c.148 §13; 1993 c.233 §31; 2001 c.445 §184; 2001 c.675 §11a]
Note: For transition provisions regarding secured transactions, see notes under 79.0628.
803.100 Application of Uniform Commercial Code. (1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, and subject to ORS 820.510, the rights and remedies of all persons in vehicles subject to security interests established under ORS 803.097 or 820.591 shall be determined by the provisions of the Uniform Commercial Code.
(2)(a) If perfection of a security interest in a vehicle, including a manufactured structure or a manufactured dwelling, occurs on or before 20 days after attachment of the security interest, the secured party takes priority over the rights of a transferee in bulk or a lien creditor that arise between the time the secured party’s interest attaches and the time of perfection of the security interest.
(b) This subsection applies to any security interest in a vehicle that is not a purchase money security interest. [1983 c.338 §190; 1985 c.16 §66; 1989 c.148 §14; 1999 c.818 §3; 2001 c.675 §12]
(2) Except as otherwise provided in this section, upon transfer of any interest in a motor vehicle, an odometer disclosure statement shall be made by the transferor to the transferee. The disclosure shall be in a form that complies with the provisions of ORS 803.120 and shall contain the information required under ORS 803.122.
(3) If a transfer requiring a disclosure statement involves a leased vehicle, the lessor shall notify the lessee that the lessee is required to provide odometer disclosure. The lessee shall furnish the lessor with a form that complies with the requirements of ORS 803.120 and shall provide the information required by ORS 803.122 except that for purposes of the required information, the lessee shall be considered the transferor, the lessor shall be considered the transferee and the date shall be the date of the disclosure statement.
(4) Where an interest in a vehicle is transferred by operation of law, the Department of Transportation shall determine by rule whether an odometer disclosure statement is required and if so, who is required to provide it.
(5) The odometer disclosure requirements of this section do not apply upon transfer of an interest where the transfer is due solely to the creation, release or assignment of a security interest, or upon transfer of an interest in any of the following:
(a) A vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 16,000 pounds.
(b) A vehicle that is not self-propelled.
(c) A vehicle that is at least 10 years old.
(d) A vehicle that is sold directly by the manufacturer to any agency of the United States in conformity with contractual specifications.
(e) A vehicle that is exempted from the requirement by rules of the department. [1989 c.148 §4; 1991 c.67 §214; 1991 c.873 §1]
(a) Shall immediately notify the Oregon State Police or, if the department determines it would be appropriate to do so, notify another law enforcement agency; and
(b) Shall not issue title within 30 days of giving the notice required by paragraph (a) of this subsection unless the department is notified before the end of the 30 days that the vehicle is not stolen. After the passage of the 30-day period, the department may issue the title.
(2) The department may issue title to a vehicle that is listed as stolen without giving the notice required by of subsection (1)(a) of this section if the department is satisfied that the applicant for title is the person from whom the vehicle was stolen or is the insurer of that person.
(3) The department may check with the National Crime Information Center and the Law Enforcement Data System for information about vehicles in situations other than those specified in ORS 803.212 and subsections (1) and (2) of this section if the department determines that it is appropriate to do so. [1991 c.576 §§3,4; 1993 c.233 §32]
803.105 Failure to deliver documents on transfer; late fee; penalty. (1) Except as provided in ORS 803.092, a person commits the offense of failure to deliver vehicle documents on transfer of a vehicle for which the Department of Transportation has issued a certificate of title if the person does not comply with any of the following:
(a) Upon transfer of title or any interest in a vehicle, the transferee shall present the certificate of title to the department within 30 days after the transfer. This paragraph does not apply to a vehicle dealer. If the transfer arises from the sale of a vehicle, a transferee who presents the certificate more than 30 days after the transfer shall pay the fee for late presentation of certificate of title established in ORS 803.090. However, the fee for late presentation does not apply if the transferee proves to the satisfaction of the department that:
(A) The transferee made a good faith effort to obtain title; or
(B) Failure to comply was for a reason beyond the control of the transferee.
(b) Upon transfer of title or any interest in a vehicle to a vehicle dealer, the vehicle dealer shall immediately notify the department that the vehicle has been transferred to the dealer.
(c) Upon creation of a leasehold interest in a vehicle, the lessor or holder shall present the certificate of title to the department within 30 days of the transfer. This paragraph does not apply to the creation of leasehold interests in vehicles that are proportionally registered under ORS 826.009 or 826.011.
(d) Upon termination of a leasehold interest, the lessor shall cause the certificate of title to be delivered to the department within 30 days of the termination. This paragraph does not apply to the termination of leasehold interests in commercial vehicles that are proportionally registered under ORS 826.009 or 826.011.
(e) Upon creation of a leasehold interest in vehicles that are proportionally registered under ORS 826.009 or 826.011, the lessee shall furnish the department with satisfactory proof of the lease.
(f) Upon the creation of a security interest in a vehicle where the owner or lessor is in possession of a certificate of title, the owner or lessor, if there is a lease, shall deliver the certificate to the person in whom the security interest was created. This paragraph does not apply upon the creation of a security interest where the debtor who granted the security interest is in the business of selling vehicles and the vehicle constitutes inventory held for sale.
(g) Upon the creation of a security interest in a vehicle where a prior security interest holder is in possession of the certificate of title, the owner or lessor, if there is a lease, shall either provide for the delivery of the certificate of title to the person in whom the security was created or arrange for direct delivery by the prior security interest holder to the department. This paragraph does not apply upon the creation of a security interest where the debtor who granted the security interest is in the business of selling vehicles and the vehicle constitutes inventory held for sale.
(h) Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of this subsection, upon creation of a security interest in a vehicle, a person in whom a security interest was created and who receives a certificate of title showing the interest from the person granting the security interest shall present the certificate of title to the department within 30 days after receiving the certificate of title.
(i) Within 15 calendar days of satisfaction of a security interest in a vehicle, the security interest holder affected:
(A) If in possession of the certificate of title, shall deliver the certificate of title and the release contained thereon to the security interest holder next named, if any, otherwise to the lessor or, if none, to the owner.
(B) If not in possession of the certificate of title, shall deliver a release to the person entitled thereto.
(j) Upon receipt of a release of a security interest in a vehicle by a person who is not in possession of the certificate of title, the person shall promptly deliver the release to the holder of the certificate of title. This paragraph does not apply to release of a security interest in vehicles where the debtor who granted the security interest is in the business of selling vehicles and the vehicle constitutes inventory held for sale.
(k) Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of this subsection, upon satisfaction of a security interest in a vehicle, the holder of the certificate of title and the release shall present both to the department within 30 days after the date of the release. This paragraph does not apply upon release of a security interest in vehicles where the debtor who granted the security interest is in the business of selling vehicles and the vehicle constitutes inventory held for sale.
(2) The offense described in this section, failure to deliver vehicle documents on transfer of interest in a vehicle, is a Class D traffic violation. [1983 c.338 §191; 1985 c.16 §67; 1985 c.315 §2; 1985 c.485 §4; 1987 c.750 §5; 1989 c.43 §19; 1989 c.148 §15; 1989 c.452 §5; 1991 c.284 §14; 1993 c.18 §167; 1993 c.233 §33]
(2) Nothing in this section authorizes the department to adopt rules requiring compliance with this section by persons who would be exempt from compliance with ORS 803.105 even if they had been issued certificates of title by the department.
(3) The offense described in this section, failure to deliver information on transfer of a vehicle, is a Class D traffic violation. [1993 c.233 §35]
803.108 Effect of tax lien on transfer of vehicle. If the ownership of a motor vehicle subject to the lien provided for by ORS 319.700 is transferred, whether by operation of law or otherwise, the Department of Transportation shall not issue, to the transferee or person otherwise entitled thereto, a registration card or title with respect to such motor vehicle until the department has determined that the lien has been removed. Implements of husbandry are not subject to this section by virtue of exemption under ORS 319.520 from the lien provided for by ORS 319.700. [Formerly 803.115]
803.110 [1985 c.485 §3; repealed by 1989 c.148 §20]
(Transferor Notice)
803.112 Notice of transfer of interest in vehicle; contents; exemptions. (1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, the transferor of an interest in a vehicle covered by an Oregon title shall notify the Department of Transportation of the transfer within 10 days of the date of transfer. The notice shall be in a form determined by the department by rule and shall contain:
(a) A description of the vehicle sufficient to identify it.
(b) The name and address of the transferee.
(c) The date of birth of the transferee.
(d) The number of the transferee’s driver license, unless the transferee is a vehicle dealer or does not have a driver license.
(e) The signature of the transferee.
(f) Any other information required by the department by rule.
(2) For purposes of giving notice under this section, if the transfer occurs by operation of law, the personal representative, receiver, trustee, sheriff or other representative or successor in interest of the person whose interest is transferred shall be considered the transferor.
(3) The requirements of this section do not apply upon creation, termination or change in a security interest or a leasehold interest or upon award of ownership of a motor vehicle made by court order.
(4) A vehicle dealer is exempt from the notice requirement of this section if the dealer:
(a) Transfers the vehicle to another dealer; or
(b) Submits an application for title to the vehicle on behalf of the buyer of the vehicle.
(5) Notification provided under this section is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an assignment or release of any interest in the vehicle. [1995 c.516 §2]
803.113 Department action upon receipt of notice under ORS 803.112; rules. (1) Except as otherwise provided by rule of the Department of Transportation under subsection (4) of this section, upon receipt of a notification of transfer described in ORS 803.112, the department shall make a notation on its records indicating that it has received notification that an interest in the vehicle has been transferred. The notation shall be made whether or not the form submitted to the department contains all the information required by ORS 803.112, so long as there is sufficient information to identify the vehicle. Thereafter, until a new title is issued, when the department is asked to provide the name of the owner of a vehicle as shown on its records, the department shall provide the name of the transferor and indicate that department records show a notification of transfer but do not show a title transfer. The department shall also provide the name of the transferee if it is shown on the form submitted by the transferor under ORS 803.112.
(2) Whenever the Oregon Vehicle Code or other statute requires notice to the owner of a motor vehicle, the person required to provide notice shall provide the notice to the current owner as shown on the records of the department and to any transferee shown as a result of notification to the department under ORS 803.112.
(3) If the department does not receive an application for title from the person named as transferee in a form submitted under ORS 803.112 within 60 days of the receipt of the form, the department shall notify the person named of the obligation under ORS 803.092 to apply for title. Notification shall be made as soon after the 60th day after receipt of the form as is convenient for the department.
(4) The department may adopt rules for the implementation of ORS 803.112 and this section. Rules shall be designed to allow the department to implement ORS 803.112 and this section in a way that is efficient and convenient for the public and the department. Rules under this section may include, but need not be limited to, rules authorizing the department to remove information recorded under this section and specifying circumstances under which information submitted need not be recorded. [1995 c.516 §3]
803.114 Knowingly submitting false notice of transfer; penalty. (1) A person commits the offense of knowingly submitting false notice of transfer if the person submits a notice of transfer of an interest in a vehicle as described in ORS 803.112 to the Department of Transportation and the person knows that the interest in the vehicle has not been transferred.
(2) The offense described in this section, knowingly submitting false notice of transfer, is a Class C misdemeanor. [1995 c.516 §4]
803.115 [1983 c.338 §192; 1989 c.992 §30; 1993 c.233 §36; renumbered 803.108 in 1997]
803.116 Knowingly submitting false information about transfer of interest in vehicle; penalty. (1) A person commits the offense of knowingly submitting false information about transfer of a vehicle if the person submits a notice of transfer of an interest in a vehicle as described in ORS 803.112 to the Department of Transportation and the person knows that some or all of the information contained in the notice is false.
(2) The offense described in this section, knowingly submitting false information about transfer of a vehicle, is a Class C misdemeanor. [1995 c.516 §5]
803.117 Effect of notice of transfer on civil and criminal liability. A transferor who has made a bona fide transfer of a vehicle and has delivered possession of it to a transferee shall not, by reason of any of the provisions of the Oregon Vehicle Code, be subject to civil liability or criminal liability for the parking, abandoning or operation of the vehicle by another person when the transferor has:
(1) Notified the Department of Transportation of the transfer as required by ORS 803.112; and
(2) Assigned the title to the transferee. [1995 c.516 §6; 1997 c.249 §275]
(Odometer Disclosure)
(2) Any form authorized by the department for use as an odometer disclosure upon transfer of an interest in a vehicle shall refer to the federal law requiring disclosure of odometer information and shall state that failure to complete the disclosure form, or providing false information on the form, may result in a fine or imprisonment.
(3) Any form authorized by the department for use as an odometer disclosure upon transfer of an interest in a vehicle shall provide a way for the transferor to indicate, to the best of the transferor’s knowledge, which of the following is true:
(a) That the odometer reading reflects the actual mileage of the vehicle;
(b) That the odometer reading reflects an amount of mileage in excess of the designed mechanical odometer limit; or
(c) That the odometer reading does not reflect actual mileage and should not be relied on.
(4) An odometer disclosure required upon transfer of an interest in a vehicle shall be made on the vehicle title unless the department provides otherwise by rule. [1991 c.873 §3]
803.122 Information required; rules. (1) When an odometer disclosure is required at time of transfer of a vehicle, the transferee and the transferor shall both sign the odometer disclosure form and the transferor shall provide as much of the following as is required by the Department of Transportation by rule:
(a) The odometer reading at the time of transfer, excluding tenths of miles.
(b) The date of transfer.
(c) The transferor’s name, which shall be printed, and current address.
(d) The transferee’s name, which shall be printed, and current address.
(e) The identity of the vehicle, including its make, model, year and body type and the vehicle identification number.
(f) Any other information that the department determines by rule would further the purposes of the odometer disclosure requirements.
(2) In addition to providing the information required by subsection (1) of this section, the transferor shall indicate, in a manner determined by the department, which of the statements described in ORS 803.120 (3) is accurate. [1991 c.873 §4]
(2) The department may establish fees for providing forms authorized by this section. Fees shall be designed to recover the cost of producing and providing the forms. An agreement entered into by the department for the purpose of providing forms authorized by this section to the public may provide for a fee to be charged by the person providing the forms. [1991 c.873 §6]
(2) A person filing an odometer disclosure statement under this section shall pay a fee of $4. [1991 c.873 §6a]
(Transitional Ownership Records)
(1) More than 20 days have elapsed between the date of sale or if no sale is involved, the date the contract or security interest being perfected was signed and the date the transitional ownership record is received by the department;
(2) The transitional ownership record does not contain all of the information specified in ORS 801.562;
(3) It is determined that persons named on the transitional ownership record as having a security interest did not have a security interest on the date the transitional ownership record was received;
(4) It is determined the person who submitted the transitional ownership record made false statements in completing the transitional ownership record;
(5) The department does not receive the primary ownership record within 90 days from the date of sale or if no sale is involved, from the date the security agreement or contract was signed;
(6) The security interest holder or person submitting the transitional ownership record elects to retain it, requests it be returned or requests that the transitional ownership record be withdrawn; or
(7) The information on or in the transitional ownership record has been changed or altered in a manner that is not acceptable to the department. [1989 c.927 §9; 1993 c.233 §44; 1995 c.309 §2; 1999 c.818 §2]
(1) It is determined that title is to be issued to someone other than the person shown on the transitional ownership record;
(2) Interests reflected on the primary ownership record or in information submitted in conjunction with that record conflict with the interests as reflected on the transitional ownership record; or
(3) The person submitting the transitional ownership record has failed to submit the fee required by ORS 803.134 or to comply with an alternative payment method established by the department under ORS 803.134. [1989 c.927 §10; 1993 c.233 §45]
(Salvage Titles)
803.140 Application; certificate; rules. (1) When a person is required by the provisions of ORS 819.016 to apply for a salvage title for a vehicle, the application shall be in a form acceptable to the Department of Transportation and shall contain any information required by the department by rule. Rules adopted by the department may include, but need not be limited to, provisions for accepting an application under this section that does not contain all the information otherwise required, if the department is satisfied as to ownership of the vehicle.
(2) The department may design a salvage title certificate for vehicles and by rule may prescribe the contents of the certificate. A salvage title certificate shall be produced by a secure process that meets or exceeds the requirements of federal law.
(3) The department may issue a salvage title certificate to a person who submits an application that meets the requirements imposed by the department under this section and submits the fee required under ORS 803.090.
(4) The department may adopt any rules it considers necessary for the administration of the salvage title process. The rules may include, but need not be limited to, rules specifying:
(a) Permissible uses of a salvage title certificate.
(b) Requirements for replacement or surrender of a salvage title certificate or for issuance of a new certificate.
(c) Records that will be kept by the department.
(d) Forms of salvage title other than certificates. [1991 c.873 §28; 1993 c.233 §37]
PROVISIONS APPLICABLE TO BOTH TITLE AND REGISTRATION
(Generally)
803.200 Residency; criteria; exception; camper on vehicle. This section establishes when the exemptions under ORS 803.030 and 803.305 from titling and registration of vehicles owned by nonresidents are applicable. The applicability of the described exemptions for nonresident owners of vehicles is subject to all of the following:
(1) A person is a resident of this state for purposes of titling and registering vehicles if the person engages in any gainful employment in this state or takes any action to indicate the acquiring of residence in this state during the period of sojourn in this state by doing any of the following:
(a) Remaining in this state for a consecutive period of six months or more regardless of the domicile of the person.
(b) Placing children in a public school without payment of nonresident tuition fees.
(c) Making a declaration to be a resident of this state for the purpose of obtaining, at resident rates, a state license or tuition fees at an educational institution maintained by public funds.
(d) Maintaining a main office, branch office or warehouse facilities in this state and operating motor vehicles in this state.
(e) Operating motor vehicles in intrastate transportation for compensation or profit for other than seasonal agricultural work.
(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, private passenger motor vehicle owners who are bona fide residents of states adjoining this state shall be permitted to operate their vehicles in this state for so long as such motor vehicles remain currently registered and titled in an adjoining state.
(3) A camper on a motor vehicle described in this section shall be subject to registration or titling under the vehicle code at the same time that such motor vehicle becomes subject to registration and titling under this section.
(4) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, a person who is gainfully employed in this state shall not be considered a resident of the state if the person has taken no other steps to become a resident. This subsection applies, but is not limited, to a student at an educational institution who is paying nonresident tuition rates. [1983 c.338 §198; 1993 c.751 §87]
803.205 Proof of ownership on transfer or application for title or registration; affidavit. (1) The Department of Transportation may require proof under this section if the department determines the proof is necessary to resolve questions concerning vehicle ownership or undisclosed security interests in the transfer of any vehicle under ORS 803.092, in an application for issuance of title under ORS 803.045 or 820.591 or in an application for registration of a vehicle under ORS 803.350.
(2) Under this section, the department may require any proof sufficient to satisfy the department concerning the questions about the ownership of the vehicle or security interests in the vehicle. The proof required by the department may include, but is not limited to, completion of an affidavit that:
(a) Is in a form required by the department by rule;
(b) Contains any information the department requires by rule as necessary to establish ownership of the vehicle or to determine any security interests in the vehicle; and
(c) Is verified by the person making the affidavit.
(3) The department is not liable to any person for issuing title or registering a vehicle based on proof provided under this section.
(4) Nothing in this section affects any power of the department to refuse to issue or to revoke title or registration. [1983 c.338 §199; 1989 c.148 §16; 1993 c.233 §38; 2001 c.675 §13]
(2) The department may charge a fee of not more than $10 for providing expedited services authorized by this section. [1991 c.873 §5]
(a) An inspection of the vehicle identification number or numbers of the vehicle is performed in accordance with ORS 803.212; and
(b) The fee established under ORS 803.215 is paid to the department for the inspection.
(2) Except as provided in subsections (3) and (4) of this section, the requirements of this section apply to all of the following:
(a) A vehicle from another jurisdiction.
(b) Any assembled or reconstructed vehicle.
(c) Any vehicle if the certificate of title has been or is required to be submitted to the department, or a person is required to report to the department, under ORS 819.010, 819.012, 819.014 or 819.030.
(d) Any vehicle if the department has received notice that the vehicle has been or will be wrecked, dismantled, disassembled or substantially altered under ORS 819.010 or 822.135.
(e) Replicas.
(f) Any vehicle the department has reason to believe was not certified by the original manufacturer as conforming to federal vehicle standards.
(3) The requirements of this section do not apply to manufactured structures.
(4) The requirements of this section do not apply to the following vehicles if the person shown as the owner on an out-of-state title for the vehicle applies for an Oregon title in that person’s name:
(a) A rental truck, rental truck tractor or rental trailer that is registered in Oregon under an interstate agreement that provides that a portion of the owner’s fleet is to be registered in each state in which the fleet operates.
(b) A trailer or semitrailer that has permanent registration. [1983 c.338 §200; 1985 c.16 §71; 1985 c.402 §9; 1985 c.410 §2; 1987 c.146 §2; 1991 c.820 §15; 1993 c.174 §8; 1993 c.233 §39]
803.212 Inspection of vehicle identification numbers. (1) The Department of Transportation, or persons or agencies authorized to do so by the department, shall conduct a physical inspection of the vehicle identification number of each vehicle located in this state and required by ORS 803.210 to be inspected. The department may designate certified dealers to perform the inspection and may enter into agreements with the Oregon State Police or other law enforcement agencies of this state to perform inspections. The inspection shall determine whether the vehicle identification number or numbers match those on the records of the department, on the title or primary ownership record or contained in other information received by the department.
(2) If a vehicle that is required by ORS 803.210 to be inspected is located in another jurisdiction, the department may designate a person or agency in such jurisdiction to perform the physical inspection and may waive the inspection fee.
(3) Except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, the department shall check the vehicle identification number or numbers of all vehicles required by ORS 803.210 to be inspected against those listed as stolen at the National Crime Information Center. If the check indicates the vehicle is stolen, the department:
(a) Shall immediately notify the Oregon State Police or, if the department determines it would be appropriate to do so, notify another law enforcement agency; and
(b) Shall not issue title within 30 days of giving the notice required by paragraph (a) of this subsection unless the department is notified before the end of the 30 days that the vehicle is not stolen. After the passage of the 30-day period, the department may issue the title.
(4) The department may refer a vehicle to the Oregon State Police or other appropriate law enforcement agency for a vehicle identification number inspection if:
(a) Inspection of the vehicle under this section reveals that the vehicle identification number on the vehicle is different from the number provided to the department or appears to have been tampered with, altered or defaced; or
(b) The vehicle is a reconstructed or assembled vehicle or has been reported destroyed or totaled under ORS 819.012, 819.014 or 819.030 or is any other salvaged vehicle from another jurisdiction. This subsection does not apply to a vehicle that has been reported totaled to the department because of theft and has subsequently been recovered.
(5) If the department refers a vehicle to a law enforcement agency under subsection (4) of this section, the law enforcement agency shall inspect the vehicle. If the law enforcement agency determines that there is reason to believe that the identification number of the vehicle has been tampered with, altered or forged or that the vehicle is stolen, the law enforcement agency may seize the vehicle and may hold the vehicle until completing an investigation to establish the origin and ownership of the vehicle. The department shall reimburse the Department of State Police, and may reimburse any other law enforcement agency, for any inspections conducted under this subsection in an amount agreed upon by the department and the Department of State Police or other law enforcement agency. [1987 c.146 §4; 1991 c.576 §1; 1991 c.820 §16; 1993 c.233 §40a; 1993 c.751 §23]
803.215 Fee for inspection. A fee of $4 shall be charged for an inspection of a vehicle required by ORS 803.210. [1983 c.338 §201; 1985 c.736 §1; 1987 c.146 §6; 1987 c.790 §2]
803.217 Transfer of title and registration for vehicles abandoned by tenant. The Department of Transportation shall adopt rules to provide for the transference of a certificate of title and registration for titled vehicles, recreational vehicles and manufactured dwellings that are abandoned by a tenant as defined in ORS 90.100. [1997 c.577 §43]
(Offenses)
(a) Has any interest in a vehicle registered or titled by this state that is shown on the title;
(b) Changes names, by marriage or otherwise, from that shown on the title or changes the person’s address from that shown on the registration; and
(c) Does not comply with the requirements under this section.
(2) To comply with the requirements of this section, a person must do all the following:
(a) The person must notify the department of the change. Notice of a change of name or address must be given to the department within 30 days of the change.
(b) If the person changes names, by marriage or otherwise, from that shown on the title and a certificate of title is being held by a security interest holder, the person must notify the security interest holder within 30 days after the change who, in turn, must notify the department in a timely manner.
(c) Any time the name is changed from that on the title, any certificate of title that has been issued must be submitted to the department with the notice and the appropriate fee under ORS 803.090.
(3) A person may obtain a new certificate of title reflecting a change of name or address by making application therefor and paying the appropriate fee under ORS 803.090.
(4) If title has been issued in a form other than a certificate, a person requesting a change in name shall provide authorization from the primary security interest holder, if any, to have the title changed. If the authorization is not received, the department shall continue to reflect the previous name on the title. Nothing in this subsection precludes the department from including the new name in records maintained in conjunction with title whether or not authorization is received.
(5) Upon receipt of notice of a change and any authorization required under this section, the department shall note the change in its records. Upon receipt of the notice and the fee required under ORS 803.090, the department shall issue a new certificate of title indicating the change.
(6) This section does not apply to a change of name or address of a security interest holder or lessor that is a financial institution, a financial holding company or a bank holding company, as those terms are defined in ORS 706.008, a licensee under ORS chapter 725, or any subsidiary or affiliate of any of the foregoing.
(7) The offense described in this section, unlawful failure to notify the department of a name or address change, is a Class D traffic violation. [1983 c.338 §202; 1985 c.16 §72; 1985 c.485 §1; 1989 c.452 §6; 1993 c.233 §46a; 1993 c.751 §88; 1995 c.383 §36; 1997 c.631 §555; 2001 c.377 §54]
(2) The offense described in this section, failure to designate a replica, reconstructed, assembled or specially constructed vehicle in application for title or registration, is a Class B misdemeanor. [1983 c.338 §203; 1985 c.393 §4; 1985 c.402 §10; 1993 c.233 §47]
(a) Alters or forges or causes to be altered or forged any certificate of title, certificate of registration or assignment thereof issued by the Department of Transportation.
(b) Holds or uses certificate of title, certificate of registration or assignment thereof issued by the department knowing the certificate or assignment has been altered or forged.
(c) Unless authorized by the department, prints or produces or causes to be printed or produced any certificate of title, certificate of registration or any assignment thereof required by the department.
(d) Holds or uses any certificate of title, certificate of registration or assignment thereof required by the department knowing that it has been printed or produced without authority from the department.
(2) The offense described in this section, forging, altering or unlawfully producing or using vehicle titles or registration, is a Class C felony. [1983 c.338 §204; 1985 c.16 §73; 1991 c.407 §22; 1995 c.733 §83]
REGISTRATION
(Generally)
(2) In addition to other persons subject to this section, this section applies to out-of-state corporations owning, operating or maintaining a place of business in this state with regard to vehicles that are used by the corporation doing business in this state.
(3) Exemptions from this section are established under ORS 803.305.
(4) The offense described in this section, failure to register a vehicle, is a Class D traffic violation. [1983 c.338 §205; 1985 c.16 §74; 1985 c.401 §4; 1995 c.383 §37]
803.305 Exemptions from general registration requirements. This section establishes exemptions from the requirements under ORS 803.300. The exemptions under this section are in addition to any exemptions under ORS 801.026. Vehicles exempted by this section from the requirements to be registered by this state are not prohibited from being registered by this state if registration is permitted under ORS 803.310. The following are exempt, either partially or completely as described, from the registration requirements under ORS 803.300:
(1) Road rollers, farm tractors, trolleys and traction engines are exempt from registration.
(2) Bicycles are exempt from registration.
(3) A vehicle is exempt from registration if it has registration issued for the vehicle by the Armed Forces of the United States where the registration is issued in a foreign country to a vehicle owned by a member of the Armed Forces. The exemption granted by this subsection applies only for a period of 45 days from the time the vehicle is returned to the United States.
(4) A vehicle is exempt from registration if it is not operated on the highways of this state. No manufactured structure is exempt by this subsection. This subsection does not affect any exemption established under ORS 820.510.
(5) A trailer is exempt from registration if it is equipped with pneumatic tires made of elastic material and is not operated in this state with a loaded weight of more than 1,800 pounds. No trailer for hire, travel trailer, camper or manufactured structure is exempt by this subsection.
(6) Vehicles owned and operated by the United States Government are exempt from registration.
(7) Snowmobiles are subject to the requirements for registration provided under ORS 821.080 to 821.110.
(8) Manufactured structures are subject to ORS 803.300 as provided under ORS 820.500, 820.510 and 820.530.
(9) Implements of husbandry, well drilling machinery, emergency fire apparatus providing public fire protection and invalid chairs are exempt from registration.
(10) Farm tractors and farm trailers on highways are exempt from registration when the operation of the vehicle upon the highway is incidental to its use in an agricultural operation.
(11) Fixed load vehicles are exempt from registration while the vehicles are operated:
(a) In the construction or reconstruction of state or county roads, highways or city streets; and
(b) Within the immediate construction projects, as described in the governmental agency contract under which the work is being performed.
(12) Motor vehicles designed to operate at a loaded weight over 8,000 pounds, trailers and equipment are exempt from registration while being used for the purposes of forest protection and fire suppression under ORS chapter 477 or a similar federal statute. The exemption under this subsection applies to the vehicles or equipment described while being moved to or from the work area. The exemption under this subsection only applies to vehicles or equipment owned, leased, contracted for or requisitioned by the State Forester or State Board of Forestry, a contractor of the State Forester or State Board of Forestry under ORS chapter 477 or the United States Government.
(13) Vehicles being used for the purposes of forest protection and fire suppression are exempt if the vehicles are necessary in order to comply with ORS 477.615 or 477.650 or a similar federal statute. The exemption under this subsection also applies to the vehicles described being moved to or from the work area.
(14) Golf cart exemptions from registration are as provided in ORS 820.210.
(15) Vehicles currently registered and titled in any other country, state or territory are not required to be registered by this state. All of the following apply to this subsection:
(a) This subsection only provides an exemption as long as the owner of the vehicle satisfactorily shows that the owner is not a resident of this state as described under ORS 803.200.
(b) The exemption under this subsection applies to vehicles granted exemptions under ORS 802.500, 802.520 or 826.005 unless otherwise provided for under paragraph (c) of this subsection.
(c) Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph, a vehicle operated over the highways of this state for compensation or profit must comply with the registration requirements under ORS 803.300 in the same manner as vehicles owned by persons in this state. The following vehicles are not subject to this paragraph:
(A) Vehicles operated under reciprocal registration exemptions established under ORS 802.500 or 826.005.
(B) Vehicles operated under an exemption established under ORS 802.520.
(C) Vehicles that are proportionally registered under an agreement established under ORS 826.007 and according to the procedures established under ORS 826.009 and 826.011.
(D) Any vehicle if duly registered and titled under the laws of the state or country of which the owner is a bona fide resident to the extent that in the foreign country, state, territory or federal district where the owner resides like exemptions and privileges are granted vehicles duly registered and titled under the laws of this state and owned by residents of this state.
(d) If no exemption from registration requirements is in effect under ORS 802.500, 802.520, 826.005 or 826.007 with respect to another jurisdiction, any vehicle properly registered and titled in such other jurisdiction and for which evidence of compliance is supplied shall receive, when operated in this state, the same exemptions, benefits and privileges granted by such other jurisdictions to vehicles properly registered and titled in this state. Reciprocity extended under this paragraph shall apply to commercial vehicles only when engaged exclusively in interstate commerce.
(e) Any vehicle operated under dealer registration plates issued by another state, country, province, territory or the District of Columbia is subject to this subsection.
(16) Vehicles operated or used by vehicle dealers may be operated or used without registration as provided under ORS 822.040.
(17) Vehicles towed by towing businesses may be towed without registration as provided under ORS 822.210.
(18) Vehicles without registration may be transported by vehicle transporters as provided under ORS 822.310.
(19) Vehicles that are not registered may be operated under trip permits described under ORS 803.600 or under permits described under ORS 803.610 to 803.625.
(20) If trailers that are part of a fleet of trailers for hire are properly registered in this state under an agreement entered into pursuant to ORS 802.500, all trailers that are identified as being a part of the same fleet and that are currently registered in any state, territory, province, country or the District of Columbia shall be permitted to operate in this state in both interstate and intrastate commerce without being registered by this state.
(21) Vehicles that are registered by the United States Department of State and that are owned or operated by foreign nationals with diplomatic immunity are exempt from registration.
(22) Tow dollies and converter dollies are exempt from registration.
(23) Class I and Class III all-terrain vehicles are exempt from registration.
(24) Motor assisted scooters are exempt from registration. [1983 c.338 §206; 1985 c.16 §75; 1985 c.333 §7; 1985 c.401 §5; 1985 c.459 §4; 1985 c.668 §7; 1987 c.25 §2; 1989 c.43 §20; 1989 c.991 §25; 1991 c.284 §15; 1991 c.459 §438g; 1993 c.174 §3; 1993 c.303 §2; 1995 c.774 §11; 1999 c.977 §19; 2001 c.749 §20; 2001 c.827 §2]
803.310 Optional registration; rules. (1) The Department of Transportation, by rule, may provide for optional registration of vehicles that are exempt from vehicle registration requirements by ORS 803.305. The rules adopted for purposes of this subsection may provide for the registration of categories of vehicles, types of vehicles or otherwise. Upon request of an owner, the department may issue registration for a vehicle that meets the requirements of rules adopted under this section.
(2) A vehicle that is registered under this section is subject to the same provisions, conditions, fees and other requirements for registration as are other vehicles under the vehicle code. [1985 c.333 §6]
803.315 Failure to pay registration fee; penalty. (1) A person commits the offense of failure to pay the appropriate registration fee if the person operates any vehicle or transports any camper that is registered in this state unless the proper fee, as established under ORS 803.420 or 820.580, has been paid for registration of the vehicle.
(2) The offense described in this section, failure to pay appropriate registration fee, is a Class D traffic violation. [1983 c.338 §207; 1985 c.16 §76; 1995 c.383 §38]
(2) The offense described in this section, permitting unlawful operation of unregistered vehicle, is a Class D traffic violation. [1983 c.338 §208; 1991 c.407 §23; 1995 c.383 §5]
(a) Upon purchase, the person shall remove the registration plates and shall cause the vehicle to be registered as provided under the vehicle code or under ORS chapter 826, as appropriate, for vehicles owned by residents of this state.
(b) The person shall not use, within this state, the vehicle except when the person has paid fees and has complied with the vehicle code or with ORS chapter 826, as appropriate.
(2) The offense described in this section, purchase and use of out-of-state registered vehicle by resident, is a Class D traffic violation. [1983 c.338 §209; 1985 c.16 §77; 1991 c.407 §24; 1995 c.383 §39]
(Qualifications)
(1) The applicant applies for and is granted title in the applicant’s name at the same time the person makes application for registration, or presents satisfactory evidence that title covering the vehicle has been previously issued to the applicant.
(2) The applicant completes an application described under ORS 803.370. If the vehicle is a reconstructed or assembled vehicle or a replica, the person must indicate that fact in the application or be subject to ORS 803.225.
(3) The applicant pays the department the registration fee established under ORS 803.420 and any applicable fees for issuance of registration plates.
(4) For motor vehicles, proof of compliance with pollution control equipment requirements is provided to the department. Proof required to comply with this subsection is described under ORS 815.310. This subsection does not apply if the vehicle is exempt from the requirements for proof of compliance under ORS 815.300.
(5) The applicant is domiciled in this state, as described in ORS 803.355, if required by ORS 803.360 to be domiciled in the state in order to register a vehicle. If the department has reason to believe that the applicant is not domiciled in this state and is required to be in order to register a vehicle, the department may require the person to submit proof of domicile. The department shall determine by rule what constitutes proof of domicile.
(6) The applicant owns a vehicle that qualifies under ORS 803.360 (2) for registration in this state, if the owner is not domiciled in this state and is not required by ORS 803.200, or any other provision of law, to register the vehicle in this state.
(7) The applicant surrenders all evidence of any former registration or title as required by ORS 803.380.
(8) If required to do so by the department, the applicant provides the department with satisfactory proof that the vehicle was designed to be operated on highways and meets equipment requirements imposed by statute or rule for the lawful operation of a vehicle on highways. The department may adopt rules specifying the kinds of vehicles that are subject to this subsection and what constitutes satisfactory proof under this subsection. [1983 c.338 §210; 1985 c.16 §78; 1985 c.305 §9; 1985 c.402 §11; 1987 c.146 §7; 1989 c.22 §1; 1993 c.233 §48; 2001 c.293 §3]
803.355 "Domicile" described. For purposes of ORS 803.350 to 803.370 and 807.045, a person is domiciled in this state if the person’s place of abode is in the state and the person intends to remain in the state or, if absent, to return to it. [1985 c.305 §7; 1989 c.636 §15]
803.360 Domicile in state required; exceptions. (1) No person may register or renew the registration of a vehicle in this state unless the person is domiciled in this state, as described in ORS 803.355. This section does not apply to persons required by ORS 803.200 or any other provision of law, to register vehicles in this state.
(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, a person who is not domiciled in this state may register or renew the registration of a vehicle that:
(a) Is usually left within the state when the registered owner is absent from the state;
(b) Is used primarily for personal transportation within the state;
(c) Is a private passenger vehicle or a vehicle with a loaded weight of less than 8,000 pounds; and
(d) Is not a motor home or a camper. [1985 c.305 §8]
(Application)
(1) The true name and, except as provided for officers or eligible employees in ORS 802.250, actual residence or business address of the owner. The department may provide by rule for acceptance of something other than an actual residence or business address if the department determines that the applicant does not have an actual address.
(2) A description of the vehicle, including the name of the make and the vehicle identification number.
(3) An odometer disclosure in a form determined by the department by rule pursuant to ORS 803.120, if a disclosure is otherwise required.
(4) Any other information required by the department.
(5) If the application is for registration or reregistration of a vehicle that is subject to the federal heavy vehicle use tax, proof that the federal use tax has been paid. The department shall adopt rules to determine proof that will be acceptable for purposes of this subsection.
(6) A statement:
(a) That the applicant is domiciled in this state as described in ORS 803.355 if the applicant is required by ORS 803.360 to be domiciled in this state in order to register a vehicle in the state; and
(b) That so long as the vehicle remains registered to the applicant in this state, the applicant will remain domiciled in this state if required to do so in order to register the vehicle.
(7) A statement:
(a) That the vehicle qualifies under ORS 803.360 (2) for registration in this state, if the owner is not domiciled in this state and is not required by ORS 803.200, or any other provision of law, to register the vehicle in this state; and
(b) That so long as the vehicle remains registered to the applicant under the provisions of ORS 803.360 (2), the owner and the vehicle will meet the qualifications of this subsection.
(8) A statement upon initial registration that the applicant is in compliance with financial responsibility requirements for the vehicle and will remain in compliance until the vehicle is transferred. Exemptions from this subsection are established in ORS 806.020.
(9) If the application is for registration or renewal of registration of a motor vehicle by a motor carrier, the information on drug and alcohol testing programs required by ORS 825.410. [1983 c.338 §211; 1985 c.16 §79; 1985 c.251 §18; 1985 c.305 §10; 1985 c.563 §4; 1989 c.695 §3; 1991 c.67 §215; 1991 c.523 §4; 1991 c.873 §15; 1993 c.751 §89; 1999 c.1099 §4]
(a) Knowingly makes any false statement or representation with respect to any facts required to be set forth in any application for registration.
(b) Uses a name other than the person’s true name in any application for registration.
(2) The penalty for submitting a false odometer reading in an application for registration is as provided in ORS 815.430.
(3) The offense described in this section, false application for vehicle registration, is a Class A misdemeanor. [1983 c.338 §212; 1985 c.16 §80; 1985 c.251 §19]
(2) The offense described in this section, failure to surrender out-of-state registration, is a Class D traffic violation. [1983 c.338 §213; 1985 c.16 §81; 1991 c.407 §25; 1995 c.733 §84]
(2) The penalty for submitting a false odometer reading in an application for registration is as provided under ORS 815.430.
(3) The offense described in this section, false swearing relating to registration of vehicles, is a Class A misdemeanor. [1983 c.338 §214; 1985 c.251 §20; 1985 c.393 §5; 1991 c.407 §26; 1993 c.751 §90]
(Periods and Fees)
(1) Annual registration is valid for a one-year period. The period starts on the first day of a calendar month and runs through the last day of the same calendar month one year later. Once a vehicle is registered under annual registration, the registration period of the vehicle begins and ends with that same calendar month each time the vehicle is reregistered or registration for the vehicle is renewed.
(2) Biennial registration is valid for a two-year period. The period starts on the day a vehicle is registered and runs through the same day two years later. Once a vehicle is registered under biennial registration, the registration period of the vehicle begins and ends with that same day each time the vehicle is reregistered or registration for the vehicle is renewed. Vehicles initially registered on February 29 will expire on the last day of February two years later.
(3) Calendar-year registration starts on January 1 of a year and runs through December 31 of the same year.
(4) Ownership registration starts on the day the vehicle is registered and is valid until the ownership of the vehicle changes.
(5) Permanent registration starts on the day the vehicle is registered and is valid for the life of the vehicle.
(6) Quarterly registration starts on the first day of any calendar quarter and runs through the last day of the last calendar quarter in the registration period. The number of calendar quarters in a quarterly registration is elected by the vehicle owner at the time of registration. A person may not establish quarterly registration periods for more than four quarters. If a vehicle is registered for a quarterly registration period of less than four calendar quarters, the Department of Transportation shall collect, when issuing or renewing registration of the vehicle, the additional fee for quarterly registration established under ORS 803.420.
(7) Four-year registration starts on the day a vehicle is registered and runs through the same day four years later. [1983 c.338 §222; 1989 c.76 §1; 1993 c.174 §4; 2001 c.124 §2]
Note: Section 6, chapter 124, Oregon Laws 2001, provides:
Sec. 6. The amendments to ORS 803.400, 803.415, 803.420, 805.205 and 805.255 by sections 1 to 5 of this 2001 Act become operative on January 1, 2004, for any vehicle to which the amendments apply that is subject to the requirements of ORS 815.295 and registered within the boundaries of Clackamas, Columbia, Multnomah, Washington or Yamhill County. For all other vehicles to which the amendments apply, the amendments become operative on the effective date of this 2001 Act [January 1, 2002]. [2001 c.124 §6]
803.405 Effect of initial registration month. (1) The month in which any vehicle is initially registered under annual registration is the month established as the beginning and ending of registration periods for the vehicle unless the Department of Transportation adjusts the registration month of the vehicle upon initial registration under ORS 803.410.
(2) The day on which any vehicle is initially registered under biennial registration or when required under ORS 820.520 is the day established as the beginning and ending of registration periods for the vehicle unless the department adjusts the registration period of the vehicle upon initial registration under ORS 803.410. [1983 c.338 §223; 1989 c.76 §2]
803.410 Department authorized to adjust periods and fees; rules. The Department of Transportation is empowered to administer ORS 803.400 and 803.405, relating to the registration periods of vehicles and to adopt and enforce rules, including rules for the adjustment or proration of fees and registration periods, necessary to accomplish the enforcement of those sections. The authority granted the department under this section is subject to the following:
(1) The department may initially register a vehicle that is subject to biennial registration for less than a 24-month period or for more than a 24-month period, not exceeding a maximum of a 30-month period, and prorate the fee on a monthly basis, when in its opinion such fractional registration tends to fulfill the purpose of the biennial registration system.
(2) The department may initially adjust the registration periods of trailers for hire registered as part of a fleet.
(3) The authority granted under this section includes authority to adjust the initial registration period of travel trailers and special use trailers that are required to be registered after being removed from assessment under the ad valorem tax laws by ORS 820.520.
(4) The department, by rule, may adjust registration fees or registration periods for a vehicle, as is administratively convenient for the department, if:
(a) The vehicle is changed from one type of registration to another type; or
(b) Any other change relating to the registration of the vehicle is made where it would be administratively convenient for the department to make such adjustments. [1983 c.338 §224; 1985 c.16 §83; 1985 c.253 §3; 1987 c.750 §6; 1989 c.43 §21; 1993 c.174 §5]
803.415 Registration periods for vehicles. This section establishes registration periods for vehicles. The registration periods are periods described under ORS 803.400. Except as provided in the following, the registration period for any vehicle registered in this state by the Department of Transportation is a biennial registration period:
(1) The following vehicles have permanent registration:
(a) Antique vehicles registered under ORS 805.010.
(b) Vehicles of special interest registered under ORS 805.020.
(c) Trailers that will be operated on the highways at a loaded weight of more than 8,000 pounds and are not travel trailers, manufactured structures, fixed load vehicles or special use trailers.
(2) Government-owned vehicles registered under ORS 805.040 have ownership registration.
(3) The following vehicles may be registered under annual or quarterly registration unless the vehicles are registered under proportional registration under ORS 826.009 or proportional fleet registration under ORS 826.011:
(a) Vehicles required to establish a registration weight under ORS 803.430.
(b) Commercial buses.
(c) Vehicles registered as farm vehicles under ORS 805.300.
(4) Snowmobiles are registered as provided in ORS 821.080.
(5) Manufactured structures are registered as provided in ORS 820.500.
(6) Vehicles operated by dealers who hold certificates under ORS 822.020 are as provided under ORS 822.040.
(7) Trailers for hire that will be operated at a loaded weight of 8,000 pounds or less may be registered as follows:
(a) Annual registration; or
(b) If registered under an agreement pursuant to ORS 802.500, for a period of time determined as specified in the agreement or as determined by the department.
(8) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (11) of this section, the registration period for electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles that use electricity and another source of motive power is a biennial registration period except that the registration period for the following electric or hybrid vehicles is an annual registration period:
(a) Commercial buses.
(b) Electric or hybrid vehicles registered as farm vehicles under ORS 805.300.
(c) Vehicles required to establish registration weight under ORS 803.430.
(9) Vehicles registered under ORS 805.100 have an ownership registration period.
(10) School vehicles registered under ORS 805.050 have ownership registration except that the registration shall continue to be valid if ownership of the vehicle is transferred to a person who continues to use the vehicle for purposes authorized by ORS 805.050.
(11) The following vehicles have a four-year registration period:
(a) New vehicles registered under ORS 803.420 (1) for which new registration plates will be issued;
(b) New mopeds registered under ORS 803.420 (2) for which new registration plates will be issued;
(c) New motorcycles registered under ORS 803.420 (3) for which new registration plates will be issued; and
(d) New vehicles registered under ORS 803.420 (9)(a) for which new registration plates will be issued. [1983 c.338 §225; 1985 c.16 §84; 1985 c.177 §1; 1985 c.189 §1; 1985 c.547 §12; 1987 c.158 §162; 1987 c.217 §2; 1989 c.43 §22; 1989 c.723 §7; 1989 c.991 §26; 1991 c.284 §16; 1991 c.407 §27; 1993 c.174 §6; 1995 c.774 §12; 1999 c.977 §20; 2001 c.124 §1; 2001 c.293 §9]
Note: Section 6, chapter 124, Oregon Laws 2001, provides:
Sec. 6. The amendments to ORS 803.400, 803.415, 803.420, 805.205 and 805.255 by sections 1 to 5 of this 2001 Act become operative on January 1, 2004, for any vehicle to which the amendments apply that is subject to the requirements of ORS 815.295 and registered within the boundaries of Clackamas, Columbia, Multnomah, Washington or Yamhill County. For all other vehicles to which the amendments apply, the amendments become operative on the effective date of this 2001 Act [January 1, 2002]. [2001 c.124 §6]
803.420 Registration fees. This section establishes registration fees for vehicles. If there is uncertainty as to the classification of a vehicle for purposes of the payment of registration fees under the vehicle code, the Department of Transportation may classify the vehicle to assure that registration fees for the vehicle are the same as for vehicles the department determines to be comparable. The registration fees for the vehicle shall be those based on the classification determined by the department. Except as otherwise provided in this section, or unless the vehicle is registered quarterly, the fees described in this section are for an entire registration period for the vehicle as described under ORS 803.415. The department shall apportion any fee under this section to reflect the number of quarters registered for a vehicle registered for a quarterly registration period under ORS 803.415. The fees are payable when a vehicle is registered and upon renewal of registration. Except as provided in ORS 801.041 (3) and 801.042 (7), the fee shall be increased by any amount established by the governing body of a county or by the governing body of a district, as defined in ORS 801.237 under ORS 801.041 or 801.042 as an additional registration fee for the vehicle. The fees for registration of vehicles are as follows:
(1) Vehicles not otherwise provided for in this section or ORS 820.580 or 821.320, $15 for each year of the registration period.
(2) Mopeds, $4.50 for each year of the registration period.
(3) Motorcycles, $4.50 for each year of the registration period.
(4) Government-owned vehicles registered under ORS 805.040, $2.
(5) State-owned vehicles registered under ORS 805.045, $2 on registration or renewal.
(6) Undercover vehicles registered under ORS 805.060, $2 on registration or renewal.
(7) Antique vehicles registered under ORS 805.010, $30.
(8) Vehicles of special interest registered under ORS 805.020, $45.
(9) Electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles that use electricity and another source of motive power, as follows:
(a) The registration fee for an electric or hybrid vehicle not otherwise described in this subsection is $30 for each year of the registration period.
(b) The registration fee for electric or hybrid vehicles that have two or three wheels is $30. This paragraph does not apply to electric or hybrid mopeds. Electric or hybrid mopeds are subject to the same registration fee as otherwise provided for mopeds under this section.
(c) The registration fees for the following electric or hybrid vehicles are the same as for comparable nonelectric vehicles described in this section plus 50 percent of such fee:
(A) Motor homes.
(B) Commercial buses.
(C) Vehicles registered as farm vehicles under ORS 805.300.
(D) Vehicles required to establish registration weight under ORS 803.430 or 826.013.
(10) Motor vehicles required to establish a registration weight under ORS 803.430 or 826.013, and commercial buses as provided in the following chart, based upon the weight submitted in the declaration of weight prepared under ORS 803.435 or 826.015:
______________________________________________________________________________
Weight in Pounds Fee
8,000 or less $15
8,001 to 10,000 110
10,001 to 12,000 125
12,001 to 14,000 140