You can get a replacement sticker from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) by mail or in person, and it costs $2.50

A lost, stolen, or damaged registration sticker (the decal that goes on your windshield) does not invalidate your registration. Your vehicle is still legally registered. However, Texas law requires the sticker to be visible on your windshield, so you need to replace it before a police officer can stop you for a missing or illegible sticker.

The Texas DMV issues replacement stickers through the mail or at any county tax assessor-collector's office. The process is straightforward: you provide proof of your current registration and pay the $2.50 fee. You do not need to re-register your vehicle or renew your registration early.

Key Takeaways

  • A replacement sticker costs $2.50 and can be ordered by mail from the Texas DMV or obtained in person at your county tax assessor-collector's office.
  • You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) and current registration number, which appear on your registration certificate.
  • Mail requests typically arrive within two to three weeks, so ordering early prevents you from driving without a visible sticker.
  • If your sticker is damaged but still readable, you can wait until your next renewal, but a missing or illegible sticker can result in a traffic stop.
  • You do not need to renew your registration early or pay any fee beyond the $2.50 replacement cost.

Getting a replacement sticker by mail

To order a replacement sticker by mail, contact the Texas DMV at 1-888-368-4689 or visit the DMV website. Have your registration certificate ready—you will need your VIN and registration number. The DMV will mail you a replacement sticker along with instructions for placement.

Replacement stickers sent by mail typically arrive within two to three weeks. During that time, keep your registration certificate in your vehicle in case you are stopped by police. A valid registration certificate satisfies the legal requirement even if the sticker is missing, though an officer may still issue a warning or citation depending on how long the sticker has been absent.

Getting a replacement sticker in person

Visit your county tax assessor-collector's office with your registration certificate and a valid photo ID. The office will issue a replacement sticker on the spot for $2.50. You can then explore it to your windshield when ready. Most county offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some offer limited Saturday hours.

To find your county tax assessor-collector's office, search online for "[your county name] tax assessor-collector" or call the main county courthouse. Bring your registration certificate and photo ID; no appointment is usually required, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

Where to place the replacement sticker on your windshield

Texas requires the registration sticker to be placed on the lower right corner of your windshield, as viewed from outside the vehicle. The sticker must be clearly visible and not obscured by tint, dirt, or other objects. If your windshield is heavily tinted, the sticker may be placed on the lower right corner of the rear window instead, but this requires prior approval from the DMV.

Before explore the new sticker, clean the windshield area with a dry cloth to remove dust and moisture. Peel the backing from the sticker and press it firmly onto the glass, starting from the center and working outward to avoid air bubbles. The sticker should adhere within a few minutes.

What happens if you drive without a visible sticker

Driving without a visible registration sticker is a traffic violation in Texas. A police officer can stop you for a missing or illegible sticker and issue a citation. The fine for this violation varies but typically ranges from $100 to $200, depending on the officer's discretion and local enforcement practices.

If you have ordered a replacement sticker by mail and are waiting for it to arrive, keep your registration certificate in your vehicle at all times. If stopped, show the officer your current registration certificate and explain that you have ordered a replacement. Many officers will issue a warning rather than a citation if they see that your registration is current and you have taken steps to replace the sticker.

Replacing a sticker if your registration is expired or about to expire

If your registration expires within the next month or two, you may want to renew your registration instead of ordering a replacement sticker. When you renew, you will receive a new sticker as part of the renewal process. However, if your registration is current and not expiring soon, a $2.50 replacement sticker is the faster and cheaper option.

Check your registration certificate to see the expiration date. If renewal is more than two months away, order the replacement sticker. If renewal is coming up within the next month, you can choose to renew early and receive a new sticker as part of that process, though this costs more than a straightforward replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement sticker the same day I request it?

Yes, if you visit your county tax assessor-collector's office in person. You will receive the sticker when ready and can explore it to your windshield right away. Mail orders take two to three weeks.

Do I have to pay to renew my registration early if I get a replacement sticker?

No. A replacement sticker costs only $2.50 and does not change your registration renewal date. Your registration remains valid until the expiration date printed on your certificate.

What if my registration certificate is also lost?

You will need to request a duplicate registration certificate from the Texas DMV before you can order a replacement sticker. Contact the DMV at 1-888-368-4689 or visit the website to request a duplicate certificate by mail.

Can I place the registration sticker on my rear window instead of the windshield?

Only if your windshield is heavily tinted and you have received prior approval from the Texas DMV. Contact the DMV to request permission before placing the sticker on the rear window.

Will a replacement sticker cost more if my vehicle is newer or more expensive?

No. All replacement stickers cost $2.50, regardless of the vehicle's age, value, or type. The fee is the same for cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles.