What you need to do to renew your Alabama tag

Alabama vehicle tags expire on the last day of the month shown on your current tag. You renew through the county probate office where your vehicle is registered, not through a state office. You can renew in person, by mail, or online through the Alabama Department of Revenue website — the online route is fastest if your vehicle information hasn't changed and you have no outstanding violations or liens.

The probate office will ask for your current tag, proof of vehicle inspection (if required), and payment. Most renewals take a few minutes in person. By mail, allow two to three weeks for processing and return. Online renewal is when ready if approved, though you'll still need to receive your physical tag in the mail afterward.

Key Takeaways

  • Renew at your county probate office, not the state DMV — each county handles its own registrations.
  • You can renew online through the Alabama Department of Revenue website if your vehicle has no liens, violations, or registration changes.
  • A vehicle inspection is required every two years in Alabama; your probate office will tell you if your vehicle is due.
  • Renewing before your tag expires keeps you legal; driving on an expired tag can result in a traffic citation.

Where to renew: your county probate office

Alabama does not have a centralized vehicle registration system. Each county probate office maintains its own records and handles renewals for vehicles registered in that county. You must renew through the probate office in the county where your vehicle is registered, even if you have moved to a different county.

To find your county probate office, search online for "[Your County Name] Alabama Probate Office" or visit the Alabama Probate Judges Association website, which lists contact information and hours for all 67 county offices. Many probate offices now post their hours and renewal procedures online, so you can check before you go.

Three ways to renew: online, by mail, or in person

Online renewal is available through the Alabama Department of Revenue website if your vehicle has no liens, no registration changes, and no outstanding violations. You'll need your current tag number and vehicle identification number (VIN). The system will calculate your renewal fee, you'll pay by credit or debit card, and you'll receive confirmation when ready. Your new tag will arrive by mail within one to two weeks. This is the fastest option if you're may be able to access.

Mail renewal works if you send your current tag, a completed process form, and payment to your county probate office. The probate office can mail you the process form, or you can read it from the Alabama Department of Revenue website. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope so the office can return your new tag. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the office receives your envelope.

In-person renewal at your probate office is the most direct route. Bring your current tag, your vehicle's proof of inspection (if due), and payment. The office will process your renewal on the spot, though you'll still receive your new tag by mail. This method works well if you need to handle registration changes, have questions about your account, or prefer to complete the transaction face-to-face.

Vehicle inspection requirements and timing

Alabama requires a vehicle safety inspection every two years. Your probate office will tell you whether your vehicle is due for inspection when you renew. If it is due, you must have the inspection completed before you can renew your tag. You cannot renew online if an inspection is overdue.

Inspections are performed by authorized inspection stations throughout Alabama — gas stations, repair shops, and dedicated inspection centers all perform them. The inspection checks your brakes, lights, windshield wipers, horn, steering, and emissions (for vehicles in certain counties). An inspection costs between $15 and $25 depending on the station. Once you pass, the station will provide you with proof of inspection, which you'll need to show your probate office or include with a mail renewal.

If your vehicle fails inspection, the station will tell you what needs to be fixed. You can have the repairs done and return for a re-inspection, usually at no additional charge if done within a short timeframe. Keep the inspection receipt — you'll need it to renew your tag.

Renewal fees and what affects the cost

Alabama tag renewal fees vary by vehicle type and weight. A standard passenger vehicle typically costs between $23 and $28 per year, but the exact amount depends on your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). Trucks, trailers, and commercial vehicles have different fee schedules. Your probate office or the online renewal system will show you the exact fee before you pay.

Some vehicles may may have access to for reduced fees. Disabled veterans, for example, may be may have access to to a reduced rate or exemption. If you believe you may have access to for a discount, ask your probate office or check the Alabama Department of Revenue website for the specific requirements and documentation needed.

Payment methods vary by county. Most probate offices accept cash, check, and credit or debit card in person. Mail renewals typically require a check or money order. Online renewal requires a credit or debit card. If you're unsure what your county accepts, call the probate office before you send payment by mail.

What happens if your tag expires

Driving on an expired tag is a traffic violation in Alabama. A law enforcement officer can stop you and issue a citation, which carries a fine. The amount varies but typically ranges from $100 to $200 for a first offense. You may also be required to show proof that you have renewed your tag within a certain timeframe to have the citation dismissed.

If your tag is expired and you're stopped, you'll need to renew when ready. You can do this in person at your probate office the same day, or online if you're may be able to access. Renewing does not erase the citation, but it does prevent additional violations from accruing while you drive.

If you miss your renewal date by a significant amount, your registration may be cancelled entirely. In that case, you'll need to re-register your vehicle rather than straightforward renew it, which requires additional paperwork and fees. Renewing on time avoids this complication.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my tag if I've moved to a different county?

You renew through the probate office in the county where your vehicle is currently registered. If you've moved counties, you may need to update your registration address first. Contact your new county's probate office to ask whether you can renew by mail or if you must come in person to update your address before renewing.

What if I lost my current tag?

Contact your county probate office and explain that your tag is lost. You'll need to pay a replacement fee (usually $5 to $10) in addition to your renewal fee. The office will issue you a new tag with the same number. Bring proof of vehicle ownership and your driver's license.

Do I need to renew if I'm selling my vehicle?

No. When you sell your vehicle, the tag stays with you, not the car. The new owner will register the vehicle in their name and receive a new tag. You do not need to renew a tag for a vehicle you no longer own.

How long does online renewal take?

Online renewal is approved when ready if your vehicle meets the requirements. You'll receive a confirmation number right away. Your physical tag will arrive by mail within one to two weeks. If your vehicle has a lien or outstanding violation, the system will tell you that you cannot renew online and direct you to your probate office instead.

What if my vehicle registration information changed?

If you've changed your address, vehicle owner name, or other registration details, you cannot renew online. You must renew in person at your probate office so they can update your records. Bring your current tag, proof of the change (such as a new driver's license or title), and payment.