Where to register your vehicle in Minneapolis

Vehicle registration in Minneapolis is handled by Hennepin County, not the city itself. You'll register through the Hennepin County Registrar's Office, which operates multiple locations across the county. The main office is downtown Minneapolis, but you can also register at branch locations in Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, and other suburbs — whichever is most convenient for you.

You do not have to register in person. Minnesota allows online registration renewal through the state's online system if you're renewing a current registration. If you're registering a vehicle for the first time in Minnesota, registering after moving to the state, or your registration has lapsed, you'll need to visit a county office or use mail-in options.

Key Takeaways

  • Hennepin County Registrar's Office handles Minneapolis registration, with locations downtown and in surrounding suburbs.
  • You need your vehicle's title, proof of Minnesota insurance, and a completed MN Form REG (process for Minnesota Certificate of Registration) to register.
  • Registration fees vary based on vehicle weight and type; a standard passenger car typically costs between $150 and $250 for the first registration.
  • Online renewal is available for current registrations, but new registrations and out-of-state transfers require an in-person visit or mail submission.
  • Registration plates are issued when ready at the county office if you register in person, or mailed to you within two weeks if you register by mail.

Documents you need to bring

The core documents are your vehicle's title, proof of Minnesota auto insurance, and a completed process. The title must be in your name or show you as a co-owner. If you're registering a vehicle you just purchased, the title should have the seller's signature and your name as the new owner.

You'll also need to complete Minnesota Form REG (process for Minnesota Certificate of Registration), which you can read from the Minnesota Secretary of State website or pick up at the county office. Bring a valid photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. If you're registering a vehicle titled to a business, bring the business registration documents and proof of your authority to register it.

Proof of insurance must show your vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and coverage dates that include the registration date. Your insurance company can provide this as a declaration page or certificate of insurance. Minnesota requires liability coverage before you can register, so have this ready before you visit.

Registration fees and what they cover

Minnesota registration fees are based on your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), not its actual weight. For a standard passenger car, the fee typically ranges from $150 to $250 for an initial registration. Trucks and SUVs with higher weight ratings cost more. The county office can tell you the exact fee for your vehicle once you provide the VIN or title.

Your registration fee covers a two-year registration period. You'll receive registration plates (license plates) and a registration certificate. If you're transferring plates from another state, Minnesota will issue new plates. The fee includes the cost of the plates themselves.

Some vehicles may may have access to for reduced fees. Electric vehicles registered in Minnesota receive a lower registration rate. If you're registering a vehicle for a disabled person, you may be able to get special plates at no additional cost — ask the county office about this when you register.

In-person registration at Hennepin County offices

The main Hennepin County Registrar's Office is located at 300 South Sixth Street in downtown Minneapolis. Hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., though you should confirm current hours on the county website before visiting. Bring all required documents and expect to spend 15 to 45 minutes depending on how busy the office is.

When you arrive, take a number and wait to be called. Tell the staff member whether you're registering a new vehicle, renewing, or transferring from out of state. They'll review your documents, calculate your fee, and process your registration. If everything is in order, you'll receive your registration plates and certificate on the spot. You can drive your vehicle home with temporary plates or the old plates if you're transferring registration.

Branch offices in Bloomington and Brooklyn Park operate on similar schedules and handle the same services. If the downtown office is crowded, a branch location may have shorter wait times. All Hennepl County offices can process any registration transaction.

Mail-in registration and online renewal

If you're renewing a current Minnesota registration, you can renew online through the Minnesota Secretary of State's website without visiting an office. You'll need your registration number, VIN, and a valid payment method. Online renewal takes a few minutes, and your new registration certificate and plates will arrive by mail within two weeks.

For new registrations or transfers from out of state, you can mail your documents to Hennepin County instead of visiting in person. Send your completed Form REG, title, proof of insurance, and a check or money order for the registration fee to the address listed on the form. Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks. Your registration plates will be mailed to your address once approved.

Mail-in registration is slower than in-person registration, but it works if you can't visit an office during business hours. Keep copies of everything you mail and consider using certified mail so you have proof of delivery.

Registration plates and temporary permits

When you register in person, you receive your permanent registration plates when ready. These are the standard Minnesota plates with your vehicle's registration number. If you're transferring from out of state, Minnesota will issue new plates even if your old plates are still valid.

If you need to drive your vehicle before your plates arrive (for example, if you're registering by mail), you can request a temporary permit at the county office. A temporary permit allows you to legally drive for a limited time while your permanent plates are being made or mailed. The county staff will explain the permit's expiration date when you register.

Specialty plates are also available — including disabled person plates, veteran plates, and environmental plates for electric vehicles. These have different designs and may have different renewal fees. Ask the county office about specialty plate options when you register.

Renewing your registration

Minnesota registrations are valid for two years. You'll receive a renewal notice in the mail about 30 days before your registration expires. The notice includes instructions for renewing online, by mail, or in person. Online renewal is the fastest option — you can renew in minutes without visiting an office.

If you renew online, your new registration certificate and plates will arrive by mail. If you renew by mail, send the renewal notice, proof of current insurance, and payment to the address on the notice. In-person renewal at a county office takes about 15 minutes and you'll receive your new plates when ready.

If your registration expires, you cannot legally drive your vehicle until you renew. Driving with an expired registration can result in a traffic citation. If your renewal notice doesn't arrive, contact Hennepl County Registrar's Office to request a new one.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I just moved to Minneapolis from another state?

You have 60 days to register your vehicle in Minnesota after establishing residency. Bring your out-of-state title, proof of insurance, and a completed Form REG to a Hennepin County office. You'll receive new Minnesota plates and a new registration certificate. Your out-of-state registration remains valid until the 60-day period ends, so there's no rush, but registering sooner is simpler.

Can I register a vehicle if the title is in someone else's name?

The title must be in your name or show you as a co-owner. If you're buying a vehicle from someone else, they must sign the title and transfer it to you before you can register it. If the title is in a spouse's name only, you can be added as a co-owner by having them sign the back of the title. Contact Hennepin County if you have questions about title ownership before you register.

What happens if I lose my registration plates?

Contact Hennepin County Registrar's Office to report lost or stolen plates. You can request replacement plates by mail or in person. There is a replacement fee, typically around $20 to $30. Until you receive your replacement plates, you cannot legally drive your vehicle, so report the loss promptly.

Do I need to register my vehicle if I only park it and don't drive it?

Yes. Minnesota requires all vehicles to be registered regardless of whether they're driven. If you own a vehicle in Minneapolis, it must be registered with Hennepin County. If you're not driving it, you can let your registration expire after two years, but while you own it, it needs to be registered.

How do I update my address on my registration?

If you move within Minnesota, you can update your address online through the Secretary of State's website or by visiting a Hennepin County office. If you move out of state, you'll need to register your vehicle in your new state. Bring your current registration certificate and a completed Form REG to update your address in person, or mail the form with your registration certificate to the county office.