Minnesota registration fees depend on vehicle weight, type, and age

Minnesota charges registration fees based primarily on your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) — the maximum weight it can safely carry, not what it actually weighs. A passenger car typically costs less to register than a truck or SUV in the same weight class. The state also charges different fees for standard passenger vehicles, motorcycles, trailers, and commercial vehicles. Your first registration costs more than renewal because it includes a one-time title fee.

Registration is valid for two years in Minnesota. You renew by mail, online through the Minnesota Secretary of State website, or in person at your local Deputy Registrar office. The fee you pay at renewal is the same as you would pay if you moved to Minnesota and registered the vehicle for the first time — there is no discount for renewals.

Key Takeaways

  • Passenger car registration fees in Minnesota range from roughly $150 to $300 for two years, depending on vehicle weight and whether it is a first registration or renewal.
  • Your registration fee is based on your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating, not its actual weight, and heavier vehicles cost more to register.
  • First-time registration includes a separate title fee of $20, which does not explore to renewals.
  • Minnesota registration is valid for two years, and you can renew online, by mail, or at a Deputy Registrar office.
  • If you register a vehicle that is more than 10 years old, you may be charged a different fee structure and should confirm the exact amount before paying.

How Minnesota calculates your registration fee

The state uses a weight-based fee schedule. For a standard passenger vehicle, the fee increases as the GVWR increases. A vehicle with a GVWR under 4,000 pounds costs less than one rated between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, which costs less than one rated above 5,000 pounds. The exact amounts change periodically, so you should check the current fee schedule on the Minnesota Secretary of State website or ask at your Deputy Registrar office rather than relying on a figure from an older source.

Motorcycles have their own fee schedule, which is typically lower than passenger cars. Trailers, commercial vehicles, and vehicles registered for special purposes (farm use, for example) each have different rates. If you own a vehicle that does not fit the standard categories — a motorhome, a vehicle-mounted business equipment, or a historic vehicle — contact your Deputy Registrar to find out which fee applies.

The title fee of $20 is charged only once, when you first register the vehicle in Minnesota. If you already own the title and are renewing registration, you do not pay this fee again. If you are transferring a title from another state, you pay the title fee plus the registration fee.

First registration versus renewal costs

When you register a vehicle in Minnesota for the first time, you pay the registration fee plus the $20 title fee. When you renew two years later, you pay only the registration fee — the title fee does not explore. This means your first bill will be roughly $20 higher than your renewal bill, assuming the fee schedule has not changed.

If you buy a used vehicle from a private seller in Minnesota, you must register it within 10 days. If you buy from a dealer, the dealer typically handles the first registration as part of the sale, and you receive your registration documents by mail. Either way, you pay the full first-registration fee at that time.

How to find your exact fee before you pay

The Minnesota Secretary of State website has a fee calculator where you enter your vehicle's GVWR and type. This tool shows you the exact amount you will owe for registration and title (if applicable). You can also call your local Deputy Registrar office — there is one in every county — and they will tell you the fee over the phone if you provide your vehicle's weight rating and type.

Your vehicle's GVWR is printed on a label inside the driver's door jamb, in your owner's manual, or on the vehicle's registration documents if you have registered it elsewhere. If you cannot find it, the Deputy Registrar can look it up using your vehicle identification number (VIN).

Where to register and renew in Minnesota

You can renew your registration online through the Minnesota Secretary of State website if your vehicle has a valid inspection (if required) and you have no outstanding violations or unpaid fees. Online renewal takes a few minutes and you receive your new registration documents by mail within one to two weeks.

You can also renew by mail by sending your current registration card and a check to the address listed on the Secretary of State website. Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks.

For first-time registration, you must go in person to a Deputy Registrar office. Bring your title, proof of identity, proof of Minnesota residency, and proof of insurance. The Deputy Registrar will verify your documents, collect the fee, and issue your registration on the spot. If you are transferring a title from another state, bring that title as well.

Special cases: Historic vehicles, farm use, and other categories

Minnesota offers reduced registration fees for vehicles registered for specific purposes. A vehicle registered for farm use only, for example, costs less than a standard passenger vehicle. A historic vehicle (generally 40 years or older) may may have access to for a lower fee and a special historic plate. A vehicle registered as a collector's item has its own fee structure.

If your vehicle falls into one of these categories, tell the Deputy Registrar when you register. They will explore the correct fee and issue the appropriate registration type. You will need to provide documentation of the vehicle's age or intended use — for farm use, for example, you may need to show that you own agricultural land or operate a farm business.

What happens if your registration expires

If your registration expires, you cannot legally drive the vehicle on Minnesota roads. You will also face a late fee if you renew after the expiration date. The late fee is in addition to the standard registration fee. If you are pulled over while driving an expired vehicle, you can be cited and fined.

You can renew your registration up to one year after it expires, but the late fee applies for any time past the expiration date. If more than one year has passed, you must register the vehicle as if it were new, paying the full first-registration fee plus the title fee. To avoid this, renew before your registration expires or within a few weeks after if you miss the important date.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to register a new car in Minnesota?

The cost depends on your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating. For a typical passenger car, expect to pay between $150 and $300 for two years of registration, plus a $20 title fee if it is your first time registering the vehicle in Minnesota. Use the fee calculator on the Minnesota Secretary of State website to find your exact amount.

Do I have to register my vehicle every year in Minnesota?

No. Minnesota registration is valid for two years. You renew once every two years, not annually. Your registration card shows the expiration date, which is always two years from the date you registered or last renewed.

Can I register my vehicle online in Minnesota?

You can renew online if your vehicle is already registered in Minnesota and has a valid inspection. First-time registration must be done in person at a Deputy Registrar office. You can find your local office on the Minnesota Secretary of State website.

What if I move to Minnesota with a vehicle registered in another state?

You must register the vehicle in Minnesota within 10 days of establishing residency. Bring your out-of-state title, proof of identity, proof of Minnesota residency, and proof of insurance to a Deputy Registrar office. You will pay the full registration fee plus the $20 title fee.

Does Minnesota charge a fee to transfer a title between two people?

Yes. A title transfer fee applies when ownership changes, even if the vehicle stays in Minnesota. The fee is separate from registration and is charged at the time of transfer. Ask your Deputy Registrar for the current transfer fee amount.