How to Get a Copy of Your Vehicle Registration

Where to request your registration copy

You get a replacement registration from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency — the same office that issued your original. Most states now let you order by mail, online, or in person. The fastest method is usually your state's website, where you can often pay a small fee and have the copy mailed within one to two weeks.

Some states offer walk-in service at local DMV offices, which can give you a copy the same day. A few states also partner with third-party vendors like AAA or local tag agencies, so you may have options beyond the main DMV office. Check your state's DMV website to see which methods are available where you live.

Key Takeaways

Your state's DMV website is the fastest way to order a registration copy online, usually costing $5 to $15 depending on your state.
You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN), license plate number, or driver's license number to request a copy.
Mail orders typically arrive within one to three weeks, while in-person visits at a DMV office can produce a copy the same day.
Some states let you print a temporary registration from their website while you wait for the official copy to arrive by mail.

What you need before you request

Have your vehicle identification number (VIN) ready — it appears on your dashboard, your insurance card, and your original registration. If you do not have the VIN, your license plate number or driver's license number will work in most states. Some states also accept your vehicle's make, model, and year if you provide the plate number.

You will also need a way to pay the fee, which ranges from $5 to $15 depending on your state. Most online systems accept credit or debit cards. If you are ordering by mail, you may need to include a check or money order — check your state's DMV website for payment instructions.

Ordering online through your state DMV

Go to your state's official DMV website and look for a link labeled "Order a duplicate registration," "Replace registration," or "Registration services." Enter your VIN or license plate number, then your driver's license number or the vehicle owner's name. The system will pull up your registration record and let you confirm the details.

Select the number of copies you need — most people order one or two. Pay the fee using your credit or debit card. You will receive a confirmation number by email. The copy will be mailed to the address on file with the DMV, which is usually your current address. If you have moved recently and updated your address with the DMV, the copy goes to your new address.

Some states offer a temporary digital registration that you can print or save to your phone while you wait for the physical copy. Check the confirmation email or your account page to see if this option is available.

Getting a copy in person at the DMV

Visit your local DMV office during business hours. Bring your driver's license, the vehicle's VIN (from your dashboard or insurance card), and payment for the fee. Some offices use an appointment system — check your state's website to see if you need to book a time slot or if walk-ins are accepted.

Tell the staff member you need a duplicate registration. They will look up your vehicle record and print a copy on the spot. This usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. If the office is busy, you may wait longer. Ask whether they can print multiple copies at once if you need more than one.

Ordering by mail

read the registration request form from your state's DMV website, or call the DMV to request one by mail. Fill in your vehicle information, the vehicle owner's name, and your driver's license number. Include a check or money order for the fee (made out to your state's DMV or Department of Revenue, depending on your state).

Mail the form and payment to the address listed on the form — this is usually a central processing office, not your local DMV branch. Include a return address where you want the copy sent. Mail orders typically take two to four weeks from the time the DMV receives your form. Keep a copy of what you sent in case you need to follow up.

What to do if you cannot find your VIN

Your VIN is a 17-character code stamped into the metal on your dashboard, visible through the windshield on the driver's side. It also appears on your insurance card, your original registration, and any service records from a mechanic or dealership. If you have none of these, call your state's DMV and give them your license plate number — they can look up the VIN for you.

If you have lost your license plate as well, you will need to provide the vehicle owner's name and date of birth. The DMV staff can then pull up your record and help you order a replacement registration.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a duplicate registration cost?

The fee ranges from $5 to $15 depending on your state. Check your state's DMV website for the exact amount. Some states charge less for online orders than for in-person requests, and a few offer the first copy free if you lost it due to a DMV error.

Can I get a registration copy if the vehicle is registered to someone else?

Most states require you to be the registered owner or have written permission from the owner. If you are a co-owner or a spouse of the owner, you may be able to order one. Call your state's DMV to ask what proof of ownership or authorization they need.

What if I moved and my registration is still at my old address?

When you order a replacement, it will be mailed to the address currently on file with the DMV. If you have not updated your address yet, update it first through your state's DMV website or at an office visit. Then order the replacement, and it will go to your new address.

Do I need the original registration to get a copy?

No. The DMV has a record of your registration in their system, so you can order a copy without the original. You just need to provide your VIN, license plate number, or driver's license number so the DMV can find your record.

Can I print a registration copy at home?

Some states let you print a temporary registration from their website while you wait for the official copy. Check your state's DMV site to see if this option is available. A temporary copy usually works for a few weeks, but you will still need the official copy for some purposes like vehicle inspections or registration renewal.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.