What Minnesota tabs are and where to renew them
Minnesota tabs are the registration stickers you display on your vehicle's license plate to show your registration is current. They expire on a date printed on the sticker itself — usually the last day of the month listed. When your tabs expire, you must renew your vehicle registration before driving legally.
You can renew tabs through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services division. Most people renew by mail, online, or in person at a Deputy Registrar office — these are private businesses licensed by the state to handle registration transactions, not state offices. You can also renew at any Minnesota DMV office, though wait times are often longer than at Deputy Registrars.
The state mails renewal notices about 30 days before your tabs expire. The notice includes your renewal fee, which depends on your vehicle's weight and type. If you do not receive a notice, you can still renew — the fee will be the same.
Key Takeaways
- Minnesota tabs expire on the last day of the month shown on the sticker, and you must renew before that date to drive legally.
- You can renew online at state.mn.us, by mail using the renewal notice, or in person at a Deputy Registrar office or DMV.
- Online renewal is the fastest option and takes about 10 minutes; new tabs arrive by mail in 5 to 10 business days.
- Deputy Registrar offices are faster than state DMV offices and do not require an appointment in most locations.
- If your vehicle's registration was suspended or your tabs were revoked, you must clear the suspension before renewing.
Renewing tabs online
Online renewal through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website is the fastest and most direct method. Go to state.mn.us, search for "vehicle registration renewal," and follow the prompts. You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN), license plate number, and the last four digits of your Social Security number or tax ID.
The system will calculate your renewal fee based on your vehicle's weight and type. You pay by credit card, debit card, or electronic check. After you submit payment, the state mails your new tabs to the address on file — this usually takes 5 to 10 business days. You can drive legally during this time if your current tabs have not yet expired; if they have expired, you must wait for the new tabs to arrive before driving.
If the online system tells you that your registration cannot be renewed online, it means your vehicle has a hold or suspension on file. You will need to resolve the issue before renewing — see the section below on suspended registrations.
Renewing tabs by mail
If you received a renewal notice in the mail, you can renew by returning it with payment. Fill out the notice, include a check or money order for the amount shown, and mail it to the address printed on the form. Do not send cash.
Mail renewal takes longer than online renewal — the state typically processes mailed forms within 10 to 15 business days after receiving them, and mail delivery itself adds time on both ends. Send your renewal at least three weeks before your tabs expire to avoid driving with expired registration. Keep a copy of the notice for your records.
If you lost your renewal notice, you can still renew by mail. Contact a Deputy Registrar office or the Minnesota DMV to request a renewal form, or renew online instead.
Renewing tabs in person at a Deputy Registrar
Deputy Registrar offices are private businesses that handle registration renewals on behalf of the state. They are faster than state DMV offices and do not require appointments. Bring your vehicle's current registration (or renewal notice if you have it), proof of insurance, and a valid ID. You will pay the renewal fee in cash, by check, or by card — policies vary by location.
The Deputy Registrar will print your new tabs on the spot. You can drive away with them when ready. To find a Deputy Registrar near you, search online for "Minnesota Deputy Registrar" plus your city name, or call the Minnesota DMV at 651-296-6911 to ask for locations in your area.
Some Deputy Registrars specialize in certain transaction types or have limited hours. Call ahead if you are traveling a distance, or check their website for hours and services offered.
Renewing tabs at a Minnesota DMV office
You can renew at any state DMV office, but these locations typically have longer wait times than Deputy Registrars. Bring your current registration, proof of insurance, and a valid ID. You do not need an appointment, but arriving early in the day usually means a shorter wait.
The DMV will process your renewal and print your new tabs while you wait. You can drive away with them when ready. To find the DMV office nearest you and check current wait times, visit state.mn.us or call 651-296-6911.
What to do if your registration is suspended or revoked
If your vehicle's registration was suspended or your tabs were revoked, the online system will not allow you to renew. Common reasons for suspension include unpaid parking tickets, unpaid traffic fines, lapsed insurance, or a failed emissions test. You must resolve the underlying issue before the state will let you renew.
Contact the Minnesota DMV at 651-296-6911 to find out why your registration is suspended. The office can tell you what you need to do to clear the suspension — this might mean paying a fine, providing proof of insurance, passing an inspection, or paying a reinstatement fee. Once the suspension is lifted, you can renew your tabs when ready.
If you believe your registration was suspended in error, you can dispute it by mail or in person at a DMV office. Bring documentation showing the issue has been resolved — for example, a receipt showing a fine was paid, or a current insurance card if the suspension was for lapsed coverage.
Renewal fees and what affects the cost
Minnesota registration fees are based on your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and vehicle type. A standard passenger car typically costs between $150 and $200 per year, but the exact amount depends on weight. Trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicle types have different fee schedules.
Your renewal notice shows the exact fee you owe. If you renew online or by mail without a notice, the state will calculate the fee based on your vehicle's registration record. If you believe your fee is incorrect, contact the Minnesota DMV to review your vehicle's weight classification.
Some vehicles may be exempt from registration fees or pay a reduced fee — this includes certain disabled veteran vehicles and some government-owned vehicles. If you think your vehicle qualifies for an exemption, ask at a Deputy Registrar or DMV office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with expired tabs while waiting for new ones in the mail?
No. Once your tabs expire, you cannot drive legally until new tabs arrive. If you renew online or by mail, plan ahead so new tabs arrive before the expiration date. If your tabs have already expired, renew in person at a Deputy Registrar or DMV office to get new tabs when ready.
What happens if I drive with expired tabs?
You can be stopped and cited by law enforcement. The fine varies but is typically $100 to $200. If you are stopped, you can show proof that you renewed (such as a receipt or confirmation number) — this may help, but the officer has discretion on whether to issue a citation.
Do I need to inspect my vehicle before renewing tabs?
Minnesota does not require a safety inspection to renew registration. However, if your vehicle is older or has been flagged for an emissions test, you may need to pass an emissions inspection before the state will allow renewal. The renewal notice will tell you if an inspection is required.
Can someone else renew my tabs for me?
Yes. If you renew by mail, anyone can mail in the form and payment on your behalf. If you renew in person, a family member or friend can do it if they bring your current registration, proof of insurance, and a signed note from you authorizing them to act. Some Deputy Registrars may require a power of attorney for this.
How long do tabs last after I renew?
Tabs are valid for one year from the expiration date of your previous tabs. Your renewal notice shows the new expiration date. The state will mail you a new renewal notice about 30 days before the new expiration date arrives.