What you need to do to register tags

Vehicle tags (also called license plates or registration plates) are issued by your state's motor vehicle department when you register your vehicle. You don't register the tags themselves — you register the vehicle, and the tags come as part of that process. When you buy a car, move to a new state, or renew an existing registration, your state issues tags that show your vehicle is legally registered to drive on public roads.

The steps and documents you'll need depend on whether you're registering a vehicle for the first time, renewing an existing registration, or transferring tags from another state. Each state has its own process, fees, and timing requirements. Most states now let you renew online or by mail, though some still require an in-person visit to a motor vehicle office for new registrations.

Key Takeaways

  • Vehicle tags are issued when you register your vehicle with your state's motor vehicle department, not ordered separately.
  • New registrations typically require proof of ownership, proof of insurance, and a completed process form, submitted in person or by mail depending on your state.
  • Renewal important date vary by state but are usually tied to your vehicle's registration expiration date, shown on your current registration card and tags.
  • Most states charge a flat registration fee plus additional fees for tags, title transfer, or emissions testing, and these amounts differ significantly by state.
  • If your tags are lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request replacements from your state's motor vehicle department, usually for a small fee.

Documents you'll need for a new vehicle registration

For a new registration, you'll need to bring or submit proof that you own the vehicle and proof that you have insurance. The ownership document is usually the vehicle's title — a certificate showing who legally owns the car. If you financed the vehicle, the lender's name may appear on the title; if you paid cash, your name should be the only owner listed.

You'll also need a current proof of insurance document from your insurance company. This is typically a declarations page or ID card showing your policy number, the vehicle identification number (VIN), and coverage dates. Some states require this before they'll issue tags; others just need proof that you have it. Your state's motor vehicle department website lists exactly what form of proof they accept.

You'll complete an process form — usually called a registration process or vehicle registration form — available on your state's motor vehicle website or at a local office. If you're registering in a new state, you may also need to provide your old registration from your previous state. Some states require an emissions test before registration; check your state's requirements before you go.

How to register a vehicle in person versus online or by mail

Most states offer at least two ways to register: in person at a motor vehicle office, or by mail. Some states now allow online renewal for vehicles that are already registered, though new registrations almost always require an in-person visit or notarized documents sent by mail.

An in-person registration means you go to your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Secretary of State office, or equivalent agency with your documents. Staff will check your paperwork, collect your fee, and issue your tags on the spot or mail them to you within a few days. This route is fastest if you have all documents ready, though wait times at motor vehicle offices can be long.

A mail-in registration means you send your completed process, documents, and payment to your state's motor vehicle department. Processing times vary — some states take two weeks, others take four to six weeks. You'll receive your tags and registration card by mail. Some states require documents to be notarized if you're not present in person.

Online renewal is available in most states for vehicles already registered there. You log into your state's motor vehicle website, confirm your information, pay the renewal fee, and receive a new registration card by mail. Tags are usually mailed separately. Online renewal typically takes one to two weeks.

Registration fees and what they cover

Registration fees vary widely by state and depend on the vehicle's weight, age, and type. A typical registration fee ranges from $50 to $200 per year, but some states charge significantly more. Your state's motor vehicle website shows the exact fee for your vehicle once you enter its details.

The registration fee covers the cost of issuing your registration card and processing your process. Tag fees are usually separate and cover the cost of manufacturing and issuing the physical license plates. Some states bundle these into one total fee; others list them separately. If you need personalized or specialty plates (vanity plates, environmental plates, or plates supporting a cause), there's usually an additional charge.

New registrations may include a title transfer fee if you're registering a vehicle you just bought or if you're moving to a new state. Some states also charge for emissions testing, which is required before registration in certain areas. Check your state's motor vehicle website or call your local office to confirm all fees before you go.

When your registration expires and how to renew

Your registration expiration date is printed on your registration card and on your license plates. In most states, registrations expire on your birthday, on the last day of the month you registered, or on a date set by the state. Some states renew annually; others allow two-year or three-year registrations.

You should renew before the expiration date shown on your card. Driving with an expired registration is illegal and can result in a traffic ticket. Many states send a renewal notice by mail 30 to 60 days before your expiration date, but don't rely on receiving it — it's your responsibility to renew on time.

Most states let you renew online, by mail, or in person. Online renewal is usually the fastest and can often be done on the expiration date itself. If you renew by mail, send your documents at least two weeks before expiration to allow time for processing. If you're renewing in person, go to your local motor vehicle office with your renewal notice (if you have it) and payment.

Replacing lost, stolen, or damaged tags

If your license plates are lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request replacements from your state's motor vehicle department. You'll need to fill out a form — usually called a duplicate tag request or replacement tag form — available on your state's website or at a local office.

For a lost or stolen plate, you may need to file a police report and provide a copy to the motor vehicle department. For a damaged plate, you can usually just submit the damaged plate itself or a photo of it. Replacement fees are typically $10 to $30 per plate, depending on your state.

You can usually request replacements by mail or in person. Processing times range from a few days to two weeks. If you need plates urgently, check whether your state offers expedited processing or temporary plates while you wait.

What happens if you don't register your vehicle

Driving without current registration is illegal in all states. If you're stopped by police, you can be cited for an unregistered vehicle, which typically results in a fine of $100 to $500 or more, depending on your state. The ticket may also require you to show proof of registration within a set time frame (usually 10 days) to avoid additional penalties.

An unregistered vehicle also cannot pass a safety inspection in states that require one, and you cannot legally park it on public streets in many jurisdictions. If your registration has expired, renew it as soon as possible. If you can't afford the renewal fee, some states offer payment plans or fee reductions for low-income vehicle owners — check your state's motor vehicle website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with expired tags while waiting for my renewal to arrive?

No. Once your registration expires, you cannot legally drive the vehicle, even if you've submitted a renewal process. If you're waiting for new tags by mail, keep a copy of your renewal confirmation or receipt in your vehicle to show police if stopped. Some states issue temporary registration documents you can print while you wait.

What if I move to a new state — do I have to re-register my vehicle?

Yes. Most states require you to register your vehicle within 30 to 90 days of moving there. You'll need your current out-of-state title, proof of insurance, and a completed process for your new state. Some states allow you to keep your old tags temporarily while you process the new registration, but check your new state's rules before driving.

Do I need to register my vehicle if I'm not driving it?

If the vehicle is parked on public streets or used on public roads at all, yes — it must be registered. If it's stored in a private garage and never driven, some states let you request a non-operational registration or suspended registration at a lower fee. Contact your state's motor vehicle department to ask about this option.

What if I lose my registration card?

You can request a duplicate registration card from your state's motor vehicle department, usually for $5 to $15. You can often do this online or by mail. You don't need a new registration card to drive legally — the tags on your vehicle are proof of registration — but having the card is useful for insurance claims and traffic stops.

Can I transfer my old tags to a new vehicle?

In most states, no. Tags are tied to a specific vehicle and cannot be transferred. When you buy a new vehicle, you register it and receive new tags. Your old tags become invalid once you transfer the registration. Some states allow you to keep a vanity plate number and explore it to a new vehicle's tags, but the physical plates themselves are replaced.