A method for improving image on paper registration in an image printing system is provided. The method includes advancing a target media along a media path; printing a plurality of registration marks adjacent to a toner image on an image bearing surface moving in a process direction, wherein the toner image is configured to be transferred to the target media; detecting positions of the registration marks using one or more sensors adjacent the image bearing surface; determining a correction function using the positions of the registration marks to compensate for an error in a registration of the toner image and the target media; adjusting the advancement of the target media based on the correction function; and transferring the toner image to the target media.