Where to renew and what you need

You can renew your Minnesota vehicle registration at any Deputy Registrar office or online through the Minnesota Secretary of State website. The online route is faster if your vehicle has no safety or emissions issues — you can complete it in minutes without leaving home. If you renew in person, bring your current registration card, proof of insurance, and a valid ID.

The state also allows renewal by mail if you prefer. You'll mail your registration card, a check or money order for the renewal fee, and a completed MV-14 form (process for Minnesota Certificate of Title or Registration) to your local Deputy Registrar office. Processing takes longer this way — typically one to two weeks — so plan ahead if your registration expires soon.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through the Secretary of State website is the fastest option and works if your vehicle passed its last safety and emissions inspection.
  • You must have current proof of insurance to renew, whether you go online, in person, or by mail.
  • Deputy Registrar offices are located throughout Minnesota and handle renewals the same day you visit.
  • The renewal fee varies based on your vehicle's weight and type, so check the Secretary of State website for your specific amount before you go.
  • If your registration is already expired, you can still renew it, but driving with an expired registration is illegal and can result in a traffic citation.

Online renewal through the Secretary of State

Visit mn.gov/sos and look for the vehicle registration renewal section. You'll enter your vehicle identification number (VIN), license plate number, and the last four digits of your Social Security number or tax ID. The system will pull up your registration record and show you the renewal fee based on your vehicle's specifications.

Online renewal works only if your vehicle has no outstanding safety or emissions violations. If your vehicle failed an emissions test or has a safety hold, you'll see a message telling you to visit a Deputy Registrar in person instead. Once you pay the fee online using a credit or debit card, your new registration is valid when ready, though the physical card arrives by mail within one to two weeks.

Renewing in person at a Deputy Registrar

Find your nearest Deputy Registrar office on the Secretary of State website — there are hundreds across Minnesota, including many in grocery stores, hardware stores, and city halls. Bring your current registration card, proof of insurance (your insurance card or a printed declaration page), and a valid ID such as a driver's license or passport.

The office will verify your information, collect the renewal fee, and issue your new registration card on the spot. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is. If your vehicle has a safety or emissions issue, the Deputy Registrar will tell you what needs to be fixed before you can renew.

Renewing by mail

Request an MV-14 form from your local Deputy Registrar office or read it from the Secretary of State website. Fill it out completely, including your vehicle information and the reason for your process (renewal). Include your current registration card, a check or money order for the correct renewal fee, and a copy of your proof of insurance.

Mail the packet to the Deputy Registrar office that serves your county. Processing takes one to two weeks from the date they receive it. Your new registration card will arrive by mail once approved. This method is slower than online or in-person renewal, so use it only if you have time before your registration expires.

Understanding the renewal fee

Minnesota's registration fee is based on your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and type. A standard passenger car typically costs between $35 and $50 to renew, but trucks, vans, and heavier vehicles cost more. The Secretary of State website has a fee calculator where you enter your vehicle type and weight to see the exact amount you'll owe.

Some vehicles may have access to for reduced fees. For example, electric vehicles registered in Minnesota may have different fee structures. If you're unsure whether your vehicle qualifies for a discount, ask the Deputy Registrar when you renew or call the Secretary of State office before you go.

What happens if your registration expires

Driving with an expired registration is illegal in Minnesota. If you're stopped by law enforcement, you can receive a traffic citation and fine. However, you can renew your registration even after it expires — there's no grace period, but the state doesn't require you to pay a penalty fee to renew late. Your new registration becomes valid as soon as you complete the renewal process.

If your registration has been expired for a long time and your vehicle has outstanding safety or emissions violations, you may need to address those issues before the state will renew. A Deputy Registrar can tell you what's required when you visit or call.

Proof of insurance requirements

Minnesota requires all registered vehicles to carry liability insurance. When you renew your registration, you must show proof that your insurance is current. Your insurance card, a printed declaration page from your insurance company, or an electronic copy on your phone all count as proof.

If your insurance has lapsed or you're switching providers, make sure your new policy is active before you renew your registration. The Deputy Registrar will check the date on your proof of insurance and won't complete the renewal if coverage has expired. If you're renewing online, the system may verify your insurance electronically, depending on whether your insurance company reports to the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my registration if it's already expired?

Yes. Minnesota doesn't impose a penalty fee for renewing late, though driving with an expired registration is illegal. Renew as soon as possible through any available method — online, in person, or by mail.

How long does my new registration card take to arrive if I renew online?

Your registration is valid when ready after you pay online, but the physical card arrives by mail within one to two weeks. You can drive legally with your old card or a printed confirmation from the online renewal until the new card arrives.

What if I don't know my vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating?

Check your vehicle's door jamb label or owner's manual for the GVWR. You can also call your local Deputy Registrar office and they'll help you find it. The Secretary of State website fee calculator also accepts vehicle year, make, and model as an alternative to GVWR.

Do I have to renew in person if my vehicle failed an emissions test?

Yes. You cannot renew online if your vehicle has an outstanding emissions or safety violation. Visit a Deputy Registrar in person, and they'll explain what repairs or retesting is needed before your registration can be renewed.

Can someone else renew my registration for me?

Yes, if you renew by mail or in person. A family member or authorized person can visit a Deputy Registrar with your signed registration card, proof of insurance, and a completed MV-14 form. For online renewal, you'll need to do it yourself or give someone your login credentials.