If you regularly operate an out-of-state vehicle in Arizona, you may need more than your existing registration. In certain situations, Special Interstate Registration (SPI) in Arizona allows a qualifying vehicle to be registered in Arizona while remaining titled in another state.
SPI isn’t something most drivers encounter every day, so it can be confusing to determine when it’s required and what documents you’ll need. Here’s a straightforward look at how Special Interstate Registration works and who may qualify.
What Is Special Interstate Registration in Arizona?
Special Interstate Registration, commonly called SPI, is an Arizona registration option for certain vehicles that are titled outside the state.
Unlike a standard Arizona title and registration transaction, an SPI allows a qualifying vehicle to retain its out-of-state title while receiving Arizona registration.
This can be useful when a vehicle has a legitimate connection to Arizona but isn’t required to be titled here.
Who May Qualify for Special Interstate Registration?
SPI can apply in several situations involving vehicles titled in another state.
Depending on the circumstances, this may include:
- A nonresident conducting business between Arizona and another state
- Someone with concurrent residency who uses an out-of-state vehicle in Arizona
- An Arizona resident who routinely operates a vehicle owned and titled by someone in another state
- Certain leased vehicles titled outside Arizona
Eligibility depends on the vehicle’s ownership, title status and how it is being used in Arizona.
Because SPI is intended for specific circumstances, it isn’t simply an alternative to obtaining a regular Arizona title when a vehicle would normally be required to have one.
Does an SPI Give You an Arizona Title?
Generally, no.
One of the primary differences between SPI and a standard Arizona title and registration transaction is that the vehicle’s title remains with the other state.
The vehicle receives Arizona registration without transferring the existing out-of-state title to Arizona when it qualifies for SPI.
This distinction is particularly important for vehicles owned by an out-of-state individual or business as well as certain leased vehicles.
What Documents Do You Need for an SPI?
The documents required can depend on your particular situation, but you’ll need to establish that the vehicle is currently titled outside Arizona.
You may need documentation such as:
- Current out-of-state title information
- Current out-of-state registration
- Identification
- Vehicle information
- Proof of insurance
- Documentation establishing your connection to the vehicle
- Additional ownership or authorization documents when applicable
If the vehicle is owned by an out-of-state party, additional authorization may be necessary before it can be registered in Arizona.
Requirements can also differ for leased vehicles, so having the correct paperwork before beginning the transaction can save you another trip.
What If You Drive a Vehicle Owned by Someone in Another State?
This is one situation where SPI may apply.
For example, an Arizona resident may regularly operate a vehicle in Arizona even though someone living in another state owns and titles it.
Because the Arizona driver isn’t necessarily the vehicle’s legal owner, a traditional Arizona title transfer may not be appropriate. SPI can provide a registration option when the vehicle and applicant meet Arizona’s requirements.
Additional documentation or authorization from the vehicle owner may be required.
Can Nonresidents Get Special Interstate Registration?
Certain nonresidents may qualify.
For example, someone who lives outside Arizona but conducts business between their home state and Arizona may have circumstances that qualify for SPI.
The vehicle must meet applicable Arizona registration requirements, and the applicant must be able to document its existing out-of-state title and registration status.
Simply spending time in Arizona doesn’t automatically mean a vehicle qualifies for SPI.
SPI vs. Standard Arizona Registration
The biggest difference comes down to the title.
With a standard Arizona title and registration transaction, the vehicle is generally titled and registered in Arizona.
With SPI, a qualifying vehicle can receive Arizona registration while its title remains in another state.
That’s why determining the vehicle’s ownership and title status is an important first step. The correct transaction depends on more than simply where the vehicle is being driven.
What If You’re Not Sure Whether You Need SPI?
That’s completely understandable. SPI is a much less common transaction than a standard vehicle registration or renewal.
Before completing the wrong transaction, it’s helpful to determine:
- Where the vehicle is currently titled
- Who legally owns the vehicle
- Where the owner resides
- Who regularly operates the vehicle in Arizona
- Whether the vehicle is leased
- Why the vehicle needs to be registered in Arizona
Those details can help determine whether SPI, standard Arizona registration or another registration option is appropriate.
Get Help With Special Interstate Registration at 1 Stop
Unusual registration situations don’t have to mean figuring out Arizona MVD requirements on your own.
1 Stop Motor Vehicle Services is an authorized third-party provider for the Arizona MVD and offers Special Interstate Registration services along with other eligible title and registration transactions.
Our team can help review your situation and determine what documentation you’ll need before completing your transaction.
Find a 1 Stop location near you for help with Special Interstate Registration and other Arizona vehicle registration services.