Minnesota tab renewal happens online, by mail, or in person at a Deputy Registrar office

Minnesota calls vehicle registration renewal "tab renewal" because you're renewing the registration tab (sticker) on your license plate. You can renew online through the Minnesota Secretary of State website, by mail using the renewal notice you receive, or by visiting a Deputy Registrar office in person. Online renewal is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and your new tab ships within five to seven business days. Mail and in-person renewal take longer but work if you prefer not to use the website.

Your renewal notice arrives in the mail about 30 days before your current registration expires. The notice shows your vehicle information, the renewal fee, and instructions for each method. You'll need your vehicle identification number (VIN), license plate number, and the renewal notice itself. If you've moved since your last registration, update your address before renewing — the Secretary of State website has a separate address-change form.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through the Minnesota Secretary of State website is the fastest option and takes about 10 minutes, with your new tab arriving in five to seven business days.
  • Your renewal notice arrives about 30 days before expiration and includes your fee amount, vehicle information, and instructions for all three renewal methods.
  • Deputy Registrar offices are scattered across the state and can renew your registration in person the same day, but wait times vary by location.
  • Minnesota charges a base registration fee that varies by vehicle weight and type, plus any applicable local or county surcharges.
  • If your registration expires before your new tab arrives, you can print a temporary registration from the Secretary of State website to carry in your vehicle.

Renewing online through the Secretary of State website

Go to mn.gov/secretary-of-state and select "Vehicle Registration" from the main menu. Click "Renew Your Registration" and enter your vehicle identification number (VIN) and license plate number. The system will pull up your registration record and show you the renewal fee. Pay by debit card, credit card, or electronic check. You'll receive a confirmation number when ready.

Your new registration tab will be mailed to the address on file. If you need it faster, some Deputy Registrar offices can print tabs on-site, though this option is not available at every location. Check the Deputy Registrar locator on the Secretary of State website to see which offices near you offer same-day tab printing.

Renewing by mail

Use the renewal notice you received in the mail. Fill out the form, enclose a check or money order for the renewal fee, and mail it to the address shown on the notice. Minnesota processes mail renewals within 10 to 15 business days from receipt. Your new tab will arrive separately by mail after processing.

Mail renewal works well if you're renewing early or if you prefer not to use the website. However, it's slower than online renewal and leaves less margin if your registration expires before the new tab arrives. Keep a copy of your renewal notice for your records.

Renewing in person at a Deputy Registrar office

Deputy Registrar offices are located throughout Minnesota and can renew your registration on the spot. Bring your renewal notice, current vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and a valid ID. Some offices accept walk-ins; others require appointments. Check the Deputy Registrar locator on the Secretary of State website to find the office nearest you and see whether it takes appointments.

In-person renewal is useful if you need your new tab the same day or if you have questions about your registration. Wait times vary widely depending on the office and time of day. Offices in larger cities often have longer waits, while rural offices may be faster. Many offices are open during standard business hours, though some have extended evening or Saturday hours.

Understanding Minnesota registration fees

Minnesota charges a base registration fee based on your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). A passenger car typically costs between $145 and $175 per year, while heavier vehicles cost more. Trucks, SUVs, and commercial vehicles fall into higher weight categories with higher fees. Your renewal notice shows the exact fee for your vehicle.

Some counties and cities add local surcharges on top of the state fee. These vary by location and are included in the total amount shown on your renewal notice. If you move to a different county, your fee may change. The Secretary of State website has a fee calculator if you want to estimate your cost before renewing.

What to do if your registration expires before your new tab arrives

If your current registration expires and you haven't received your new tab yet, you can print a temporary registration from the Minnesota Secretary of State website. Go to mn.gov/secretary-of-state, select "Vehicle Registration," and look for the temporary registration option. Print the document and keep it in your vehicle. It's valid for 30 days and protects you from a registration violation if you're stopped by law enforcement.

Temporary registration is a safety net, not a substitute for renewing on time. Renew at least two weeks before your expiration date to avoid needing it. If you're consistently receiving your new tab after your registration expires, consider renewing online instead of by mail — the online method is faster and more predictable.

Renewing a registration that has already expired

If your registration has been expired for more than 60 days, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit a Deputy Registrar office in person. Bring your renewal notice, current vehicle registration (even though it's expired), proof of insurance, and a valid ID. The office will process your renewal and may charge a late fee in addition to the standard registration fee.

Some counties charge a $25 to $50 late fee for registrations that are more than 60 days overdue. The exact amount depends on your county. Avoid this by renewing before your expiration date. If your registration has been expired for a very long time (typically more than one year), contact your local Deputy Registrar office to ask about the process — you may need additional documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my registration if my vehicle has an outstanding safety recall?

Minnesota does not block registration renewal for open recalls. However, you should address any safety recalls as soon as possible. Contact your vehicle's manufacturer or dealer to schedule a recall repair. The repair is free, and you can renew your registration while the recall is pending.

What if I lost my renewal notice?

You can still renew online or in person without the notice. Online, enter your VIN and license plate number and the system will pull up your record. In person, bring your current registration and a valid ID. If you want a replacement notice mailed to you, call the Secretary of State at 651-296-6181.

Do I need to renew my registration if I sold my vehicle?

No. Once you sell your vehicle, you are no longer responsible for renewing its registration. Notify the Secretary of State that you no longer own the vehicle by submitting a Notice of Sale form, available on the Secretary of State website. This removes you from liability if the new owner fails to register it.

How long does it take to receive my new tab after renewing online?

Standard mail delivery takes five to seven business days. If you need your tab faster, some Deputy Registrar offices offer same-day tab printing for an additional fee. Check the Deputy Registrar locator on the Secretary of State website to find offices near you that offer this service.

Can I renew my registration if I have a suspended or revoked driver's license?

Yes. Vehicle registration and driver's license status are separate. You can renew your vehicle registration even if your driver's license is suspended or revoked. However, you cannot legally drive the vehicle if your license is suspended, so renewing the registration does not give you permission to drive.