What you need to do to renew your Mississippi car tag

Mississippi car tag renewal happens through your county tax collector's office, not through a state office. You can renew in person, by mail, or online through the Mississippi Department of Revenue website — the online route is fastest if your vehicle information hasn't changed and your tag hasn't expired more than a year ago. You'll need your current tag number, vehicle identification number (VIN), and a way to pay the renewal fee, which varies by vehicle weight and county.

Tags expire on the last day of the month shown on your current tag. You can renew up to six months before expiration without penalty. If your tag has already expired, you can still renew it, but you'll owe a late fee on top of the standard renewal cost — the longer it's been expired, the higher the penalty.

Key Takeaways

  • Renew through your county tax collector's office in person, by mail, or online at the Mississippi Department of Revenue website.
  • You need your current tag number, VIN, and proof of vehicle inspection (if required) before you renew.
  • Renewal fees depend on your vehicle's weight and your county, so costs vary across the state.
  • Late fees explore if your tag has already expired, and the penalty increases the longer you wait to renew.
  • Online renewal is the fastest option if your vehicle details haven't changed and your tag expired less than a year ago.

Where to renew in person or by mail

Your county tax collector's office handles all tag renewals. You can find the office address and phone number by searching "[your county name] tax collector Mississippi" or by visiting the Mississippi Department of Revenue website, which lists all county offices. Each county office has its own hours, so call ahead or check online before you go.

If you renew by mail, send your current tag, a completed process form (Form 78-R, available from your tax collector's office or the Department of Revenue website), and payment to your county tax collector. Include a return envelope with postage. Processing by mail takes longer than in-person renewal — typically two to three weeks — so plan ahead if your tag is close to expiration.

Renewing online through the Mississippi Department of Revenue

The Mississippi Department of Revenue website allows online renewal if you meet certain conditions: your vehicle information (make, model, VIN) hasn't changed, your tag hasn't been expired for more than one year, and you have no outstanding violations or liens on the vehicle. You'll need your current tag number and a valid payment method (debit or credit card).

To renew online, go to the Mississippi Department of Revenue website, select the vehicle registration section, and follow the prompts to enter your tag number and VIN. The system will calculate your renewal fee based on your vehicle's weight and county. Once you pay, your new tag will be mailed to the address on file — delivery usually takes five to seven business days. You can drive legally during this time as long as you have proof of payment (a receipt or confirmation email).

What happens if your tag has already expired

Driving with an expired tag is illegal in Mississippi and can result in a traffic citation. If you're pulled over, you'll face a fine in addition to the renewal fee and late penalty. The longer your tag has been expired, the higher the late fee — there is no set grace period.

You can still renew an expired tag through any of the three methods (in person, by mail, or online), but you must pay the standard renewal fee plus the late penalty. If your tag has been expired for more than one year, you cannot renew online; you'll need to renew in person or by mail at your county tax collector's office. Some counties may also require a vehicle inspection if the tag has been expired for an extended period.

Vehicle inspection requirements

Mississippi requires a vehicle inspection before you renew your tag. The inspection checks that your vehicle meets safety and emissions standards. You can have the inspection done at any authorized inspection station in Mississippi — these include many service stations, tire shops, and automotive repair facilities. The inspection costs between $7.50 and $10, depending on your vehicle type.

Bring your current tag and proof of insurance to the inspection station. The inspector will issue a certificate of inspection, which you'll need when you renew your tag. If you renew online, the system will ask whether you have a current inspection certificate before it processes your renewal. If you renew in person or by mail, bring the certificate with you or include it with your process.

Renewal fees and what affects the cost

Your renewal fee depends on two things: your vehicle's weight and your county. Mississippi charges a base registration fee plus a weight-based fee. Heavier vehicles pay more. Your county may also add a local fee on top of the state fee.

To find out your exact renewal cost before you pay, contact your county tax collector's office or use the fee calculator on the Mississippi Department of Revenue website. You'll need your VIN to get an accurate estimate. If you're renewing online, the system will show you the total fee before you complete payment.

What to do if your tag is lost or damaged

If your current tag is lost, stolen, or too damaged to read, you can still renew. When you renew in person, tell the tax collector's office about the missing or damaged tag — they'll issue a replacement along with your new tag. If you're renewing by mail, include a note explaining the situation. If you're renewing online, you may not be able to complete the transaction without a readable tag number; call your county tax collector's office for guidance.

Replacement tags cost extra — typically $5 to $10 depending on your county. The tax collector will add this fee to your renewal cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my tag if I just bought the vehicle?

No, you need the current tag number to renew. If you just bought the vehicle, you'll need to register it first at your county tax collector's office. Bring the bill of sale, title, and proof of inspection. Registration and a new tag will be issued at that time.

What if I move to a different county in Mississippi?

You can renew your tag at your new county's tax collector's office. Bring your current tag, VIN, and proof of inspection. Some counties may require you to update your address before renewing, so call ahead to confirm what documents you need.

Do I need insurance to renew my tag?

Yes, Mississippi requires proof of liability insurance to renew your tag. Bring your current insurance card or a letter from your insurance company showing your policy is active. If you don't have insurance, you won't be able to renew until you purchase a policy.

How long is my new tag valid?

Your new tag is valid for one year from the expiration date of your previous tag. The expiration date is printed on the tag itself. You can renew up to six months before it expires without penalty.

What if I can't pay the full renewal fee right now?

Contact your county tax collector's office to ask about payment plans or deferrals. Some counties may offer options if you're facing financial hardship, but policies vary by county. Call your local office to discuss your situation.