How to renew your tags
You renew your tags through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency — the exact name and process depends on which state you live in. Most states now let you renew online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. You'll need your current registration document, proof that your vehicle passed inspection (if your state requires it), and proof of insurance. The renewal notice arrives in the mail 30 to 60 days before your tags expire, and that notice tells you the fee and the exact steps for your state.
The fastest route is usually your state's DMV website, where you can renew in minutes without leaving home. If you can't renew online, the mail-in process typically takes one to two weeks. In-person renewal at a DMV office is slowest because of wait times, but it's the only option if you've lost your renewal notice or if your vehicle information has changed.
Key Takeaways
- Your state's DMV sends a renewal notice 30 to 60 days before your tags expire, and that notice includes the fee and your state's renewal methods.
- Online renewal through your state DMV website is the fastest option and takes just a few minutes if you have your registration document and proof of insurance.
- Mail-in renewal takes one to two weeks but requires you to send payment and documents to the address listed on your renewal notice.
- In-person renewal at a DMV office is necessary only if your vehicle information has changed, you've lost your renewal notice, or online and mail options aren't available in your state.
- Your vehicle must pass inspection in states that require it before you can renew, and you'll need proof of that inspection when you renew.
Renewing online through your state DMV
Most states now offer online tag renewal through their official DMV website. Go to your state's DMV site, find the vehicle registration or tag renewal section, and enter your vehicle information from your current registration document. You'll need your vehicle identification number (VIN), license plate number, and registration number. The system will pull up your account and show you the renewal fee.
Pay by credit card or debit card, and the system will email you a confirmation. Some states mail you the physical tags within one to two weeks; others let you print a temporary tag when ready and mail you the permanent ones later. Check your confirmation email for what to expect and when your new tags will arrive. If your state requires a vehicle inspection, you must complete that before renewing online.
Renewing by mail
If you can't renew online, your renewal notice includes a mail-in form and an envelope. Fill out the form, include your payment (check or money order, unless the notice says otherwise), and mail it to the address on the notice. Include proof of insurance if your state requires it with the mailed renewal. Mail-in renewal typically takes one to two weeks from the time the DMV receives your envelope, plus mail delivery time both ways.
Keep a copy of what you mail for your records. If your tags expire before your new ones arrive, you can print the renewal notice itself and tape it to your license plate as a temporary tag in most states — check your notice or your state DMV website to confirm this is allowed where you live.
Renewing in person at a DMV office
Visit your local DMV office with your renewal notice, current registration document, proof of insurance, and a valid ID. Bring proof of a vehicle inspection if your state requires one. You'll pay the renewal fee at the counter, and in most cases you'll receive your new tags before you leave. Wait times at DMV offices vary widely by location and time of day; calling ahead or checking your state's website for current wait times can help you choose when to go.
In-person renewal is necessary if your vehicle information has changed (address, owner name, vehicle details), if you've lost your renewal notice and can't look up your account online, or if your state doesn't offer online or mail renewal. Some states also require in-person renewal if you have unpaid tickets or other violations on your record.
What to do if your tags have already expired
If your tags expired before you renewed, you can still renew through the same methods — online, by mail, or in person. However, you cannot legally drive the vehicle until the new tags arrive or are issued. Some states charge a late fee if you renew after the expiration date. Check your state DMV website or call the DMV to find out whether a late fee applies and how much it is.
If you're pulled over while driving with expired tags, you may receive a ticket. The fine varies by state but is typically $50 to $200. Renewing as soon as possible stops the clock on any penalties and gets you back into compliance.
Vehicle inspection requirements before renewal
Some states require a vehicle inspection before you can renew your tags. The inspection checks that your vehicle meets safety and emissions standards. Your renewal notice will tell you whether an inspection is required. If it is, you must complete the inspection at an approved inspection station before you renew — you can't renew online or by mail without proof of inspection.
Inspection stations are typically run by service stations, tire shops, or dedicated inspection centers. The inspection takes 15 to 30 minutes and costs between $10 and $50 depending on your state. You'll receive a certificate or sticker proving you passed, and you'll need to bring that proof when you renew your tags. If your vehicle fails inspection, you have a set time (usually 30 days) to fix the problems and retest before your tags expire.
Proof of insurance and registration documents you'll need
All states require proof of current auto insurance when you renew your tags. This can be your insurance card, a letter from your insurance company, or a screenshot from your insurer's website showing your policy is active. The proof must show your vehicle's VIN or license plate number, your policy number, and the policy dates.
You'll also need your current registration document (sometimes called the registration card or title). Have your VIN and license plate number ready before you start the renewal process, whether online, by mail, or in person. If you've lost your registration document, contact your state DMV to request a replacement before you renew your tags.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my tags before they expire?
Yes. Most states let you renew up to six months before your tags expire. Renewing early is useful if you're about to travel or if you want to avoid the rush near the expiration date. Your renewal notice will show the earliest date you can renew.
What if I moved and my address changed?
Update your address with your state DMV before renewing your tags. You can usually do this online through the DMV website, by mail, or in person. Once your address is updated, your next renewal notice will go to your new address. If you renew before updating your address, the new tags may be mailed to your old address.
Do I need to renew my registration document too, or just my tags?
Tags and registration are renewed together as one transaction. When you renew your tags, your registration document is also renewed for the same period. You don't need to do them separately.
What happens if I renew late and get a ticket?
A ticket for expired tags is a separate violation from the expired tags themselves. Renewing your tags stops you from getting new tickets, but it doesn't erase a ticket you already received. You'll need to pay that ticket or contest it in traffic court according to the instructions on the ticket.
Can someone else renew my tags for me?
Yes, if you renew by mail. You can have someone mail in your renewal form and payment on your behalf. For online renewal, you'll need access to your account, which usually requires your VIN and registration number. For in-person renewal, some states let a family member or authorized representative renew on your behalf if you provide a signed power of attorney, but rules vary — check your state DMV website.