Minnesota tabs renew through the state's online system or by mail, and you can do it before your current registration expires

Minnesota calls vehicle registration stickers "tabs." To renew yours, you'll use the Minnesota Secretary of State's online renewal system, mail a renewal notice, or visit a Deputy Registrar office in person. Most people renew online because it takes minutes and you can do it from home. The state sends renewal notices by mail about a month before your tabs expire, and you can renew up to one year in advance.

You'll need your vehicle identification number (VIN), current registration number, and a payment method. The renewal fee depends on your vehicle's weight and type — it's not a flat rate across all vehicles. Once you renew, the state mails your new tabs to the address on file, usually within one to two weeks.

Key Takeaways

  • Renew online through the Minnesota Secretary of State website, by mail using the renewal notice the state sends you, or in person at a Deputy Registrar office.
  • You need your VIN, current registration number, and a valid payment method to renew online.
  • The renewal fee varies by vehicle weight and type, not a single price for all vehicles.
  • New tabs arrive by mail within one to two weeks after you renew, so plan ahead if your current tabs are about to expire.
  • You can renew up to one year before your tabs expire, so you don't have to wait until the last month.

Renewing online through the Secretary of State website

The fastest way to renew is through the Minnesota Secretary of State's online system at mn.gov/sos. Go to the vehicle registration section and select "Renew Registration." You'll enter your VIN and current registration number, then review the renewal fee for your vehicle. Pay by credit card, debit card, or electronic check.

The system confirms your renewal when ready, and you'll receive an email confirmation. Your new tabs will be mailed to the address on your registration within one to two weeks. If you need tabs sooner, some Deputy Registrar offices can issue temporary registration or expedited tabs in person, though this varies by location.

Renewing by mail with your renewal notice

The state mails a renewal notice to your address about 30 days before your tabs expire. This notice includes your vehicle information, the renewal fee, and instructions. Fill out the form, include a check or money order for the fee amount, and mail it back in the envelope provided. Do not send cash.

Mail renewal takes longer than online — typically two to three weeks for processing, plus mailing time both ways. If your renewal notice doesn't arrive or you've moved, you can still renew online or contact a Deputy Registrar office. Keep a copy of what you mail in case there's a question about payment.

Renewing in person at a Deputy Registrar office

Minnesota has Deputy Registrar offices throughout the state where you can renew in person. Bring your current registration card, proof of insurance, and a valid ID. Some offices accept walk-ins; others require an appointment. You can find the office nearest you and check hours on the Secretary of State website.

In-person renewal is useful if you need tabs the same day, if you've had a change in vehicle information, or if you prefer to handle it face-to-face. Fees are the same as online or mail renewal. The office will give you temporary registration if your tabs have already expired, so you can drive legally while waiting for your new tabs to arrive by mail.

Understanding the renewal fee and what it covers

Minnesota registration fees are based on your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), not the make or model. A lighter vehicle costs less to renew than a heavier one. The state also charges a separate fee if your vehicle is over 10 years old in some cases, though this varies. You can see the exact fee for your vehicle before you pay when you renew online.

The renewal fee covers your registration for one year from the expiration date on your current tabs. It does not include emissions testing, title transfer, or address changes — those are separate transactions. If you've moved, changed your name, or had other registration changes, you may need to update your information at a Deputy Registrar office before or during renewal.

What to do if your tabs have already expired

If your tabs expired, you can still renew when ready online, by mail, or in person. Driving with expired tabs is illegal in Minnesota and can result in a traffic stop and citation. Renew as soon as possible to avoid fines. If you renew online or by mail, you'll have a gap between when your tabs expire and when the new ones arrive.

During this gap, some Deputy Registrar offices can issue a temporary registration document that you print and display in your vehicle. This is legal proof of registration while you wait for your new tabs. Call ahead to confirm your local office offers this service. If you can't get temporary registration, renewing in person at a Deputy Registrar office is the fastest way to get legal tabs the same day.

Renewing early and managing multiple vehicles

You can renew your tabs up to one year before they expire. This is useful if you want to spread out your renewal dates or if you're planning a long trip and want fresh tabs. Renewing early doesn't change your expiration date — your new tabs will still expire one year from your original expiration date, not one year from the renewal date.

If you own multiple vehicles, each one renews on its own schedule based on when you first registered it. The state sends separate renewal notices for each vehicle. You can renew them all online in one session, or space them out throughout the year. Some people set phone reminders for each vehicle's expiration month to avoid missing a renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my tabs if my vehicle registration is suspended or revoked?

No. If your registration is suspended due to unpaid tickets, insurance lapses, or other violations, you must resolve the suspension first. Contact the Minnesota Secretary of State or your local Deputy Registrar office to find out why your registration is suspended and what steps you need to take before you can renew.

What if I moved and didn't update my address before renewal?

You can still renew online or by mail using your current registration information. However, your new tabs will be mailed to the old address on file. Update your address at a Deputy Registrar office as soon as possible, or contact the Secretary of State to have your new tabs reissued to your current address.

Do I need a new inspection or emissions test to renew my tabs?

Minnesota does not require a vehicle inspection or emissions test for registration renewal. You only need proof of insurance. Some counties or cities may have local emissions requirements, so check with your local government if you're unsure.

How long does it take to get my new tabs after I renew online?

New tabs typically arrive within one to two weeks after you renew online. If you need them faster, visit a Deputy Registrar office in person — some can issue temporary registration or expedited tabs the same day, though availability varies by location.

What if I lost my renewal notice?

You don't need the renewal notice to renew. You can renew online using your VIN and current registration number, or visit a Deputy Registrar office with your registration card and ID. If you want a replacement notice mailed to you, contact the Secretary of State.