How Minnesota Vehicle Registration Tabs Work

Minnesota vehicle registration tabs are the small stickers you place on your license plate to show that your vehicle registration is current. The tab displays the month and year your registration expires. Unlike some states that issue new plates every few years, Minnesota keeps the same plate and updates it with a new tab each year or every two years, depending on your vehicle type and registration choice.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services Division handles all registration tabs. You can renew your tabs by mail, online through the state's website, or in person at a deputy registrar office. Most vehicle owners renew before their current tab expires, and the state sends renewal notices about 30 days before expiration.

Key Takeaways

  • Minnesota tabs are small stickers placed on your license plate showing your registration expiration month and year.
  • You can renew tabs online, by mail, or at a deputy registrar office, and most renewals take just a few minutes.
  • Renewal notices arrive about 30 days before expiration, and you can renew up to six months early.
  • The cost of tabs varies based on vehicle weight, type, and whether you choose annual or biennial registration.
  • Driving with an expired tab is a violation and can result in a fine, so check your expiration date before the month ends.

Where to Renew Your Minnesota Tabs

The easiest way to renew is online through the Minnesota Secretary of State's vehicle registration portal. You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN), current license plate number, and a valid payment method. Online renewal typically takes five to ten minutes, and your new tab ships to your address within one to two weeks.

If you prefer not to renew online, you can mail your renewal notice and payment to the address listed on the form. Mail-in renewal takes longer — usually two to three weeks from when the state receives your payment — so send it at least a month before expiration if you choose this route.

Deputy registrar offices are located throughout Minnesota and handle renewals in person. You can walk in without an appointment at most locations, bring your renewal notice and payment, and receive your tab when ready. Find your nearest deputy registrar on the Minnesota Secretary of State website by entering your city or ZIP code.

Tab Costs and Registration Options

Minnesota offers both annual and biennial (two-year) registration. Annual registration means you renew every year; biennial registration means you renew every other year. Biennial registration costs more per renewal but spreads the expense across two years. The choice is yours when you renew.

The cost of your tab depends on your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), vehicle type, and whether you choose annual or biennial registration. A standard passenger car with annual registration costs less than a truck or SUV with the same registration term. The state publishes a fee schedule on its website, and your renewal notice will show the exact amount due for your vehicle.

Some vehicle owners may have access to for reduced registration fees. Disabled veterans, disabled persons, and owners of electric vehicles may pay lower rates. Check the fee schedule or ask at a deputy registrar office whether your vehicle type or personal status qualifies for a reduction.

What Happens If Your Tab Expires

Driving with an expired registration tab is a traffic violation in Minnesota. A law enforcement officer can stop you and issue a citation. The fine for an expired tab is typically between $25 and $100, depending on how long the tab has been expired and whether you have prior violations.

If you discover your tab has expired, renew it when ready. You can renew online or at a deputy registrar office the same day. If you are stopped before renewing, bring proof of your renewal process or receipt to the officer — some officers will not cite you if you can show you have already begun the renewal process.

Renewing Early and Replacing Lost or Damaged Tabs

You can renew your registration up to six months before your current tab expires. This is useful if you want to spread out your renewal payments or if you prefer to handle it during a less busy time. Renewing early does not shorten the life of your new registration — your new tab will still expire 12 or 24 months from the date you renew, depending on whether you choose annual or biennial registration.

If your tab is lost, stolen, or damaged and no longer readable, you can request a replacement. Contact a deputy registrar office or call the Minnesota Secretary of State's vehicle registration line. Replacement tabs usually cost a small fee, typically $5 to $10, and you can receive one in person the same day or by mail within one to two weeks.

Special Situations: Temporary Plates and New Vehicle Registrations

When you purchase a new vehicle in Minnesota, the dealer provides a temporary registration permit that is valid for 30 days. This permit allows you to drive while you complete the registration process. You must register the vehicle and obtain permanent tabs within that 30-day window or face a violation.

If you buy a vehicle from a private seller, you have 10 days to register it. You can register at a deputy registrar office or online. Bring your bill of sale, proof of insurance, and a completed process form. Once registered, you will receive your permanent tabs by mail or can pick them up at the deputy registrar office.

If you move to Minnesota from another state, you have 60 days to register your vehicle and obtain Minnesota tabs. Your out-of-state registration remains valid during this period. After 60 days, you must have Minnesota registration and tabs or face a violation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my tabs before I receive the renewal notice?

Yes. You can renew online or at a deputy registrar office up to six months before your current tab expires. You will need your VIN and current license plate number. Renewing early does not shorten your registration period — your new tab will still expire 12 or 24 months from the renewal date.

What if I move and my renewal notice goes to my old address?

Update your address with the Minnesota Secretary of State as soon as you move. You can update online, by mail, or at a deputy registrar office. If you miss your renewal notice, you can still renew online or at a deputy registrar office using your VIN and license plate number. Check your expiration date on your current tab to know when to renew.

Do I have to renew in person, or can I always do it by mail or online?

Most vehicle owners can renew by mail or online without visiting an office. However, if your registration has been suspended, if you have unpaid parking tickets or other violations, or if you are registering a vehicle for the first time in Minnesota, you may need to visit a deputy registrar office in person.

What if my vehicle is registered in another state but I live in Minnesota?

Minnesota requires you to register any vehicle you own and keep in the state, even if you work or attend school out of state. You have 60 days after establishing residency to register your vehicle in Minnesota. After that, driving with out-of-state plates is a violation.

Can I transfer my current tab to a new vehicle?

No. Each vehicle must have its own registration and tab. If you sell your vehicle, the new owner must register it in their name and obtain new tabs. If you purchase a new vehicle, you must register it separately and receive new tabs for that vehicle.