What you need to register a vehicle in Minnesota

Vehicle registration in Minnesota is handled by the state's Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services division. To register a vehicle, you will need to submit proof of ownership, proof of identity, proof of Minnesota residency, and payment of the registration fee. The process differs slightly depending on whether you are registering a new vehicle, transferring ownership from another state, or renewing an existing registration.

Most people register vehicles in person at their county's deputy registrar office, though some transactions can be completed by mail or online through the state's website. The fee you pay depends on the vehicle's weight, age, and type — a motorcycle costs less than a pickup truck, and fees change each year based on state law.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a title or proof of ownership, a government-issued ID, proof of Minnesota residency, and payment before you can register a vehicle.
  • Registration happens at your county's deputy registrar office, which is usually located in the courthouse or a government building.
  • The registration fee depends on your vehicle's weight and type, and you can find the exact amount on the Department of Public Safety website before you go in.
  • If you are moving to Minnesota from another state, you have 60 days to register your vehicle before you are required to do so.
  • You can renew your registration online, by mail, or in person, and renewal notices are mailed to you before your current registration expires.

Documents you need to bring

The specific documents required depend on your situation, but most people need a title or proof of ownership. If you are registering a vehicle you just bought, bring the title signed by the previous owner. If you are transferring a registration from another state, bring your out-of-state title or registration. If you are renewing a registration you already have in Minnesota, you may only need your renewal notice.

You will also need a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. Bring proof that you live in Minnesota, such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. If your name on the title does not match your current ID, bring documents showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Where to register and what to expect

Every Minnesota county has at least one deputy registrar office where you can register a vehicle in person. These offices are usually in the county courthouse, but some counties also have satellite locations. You can find your county's office and its hours on the Department of Public Safety website by entering your county name.

When you arrive, you will fill out an process form — the state provides this at the office, or you can read it beforehand. The staff will check your documents, calculate your fee, and process your registration. The entire visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes if you have all your paperwork. You will receive your registration certificate and license plates (or a registration sticker if you are renewing) before you leave.

Registration fees and what they cover

Minnesota registration fees are based on your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating, which is the maximum weight the vehicle can safely carry. A vehicle weighing 4,000 pounds or less costs less than one weighing 10,000 pounds. Motorcycles, trailers, and commercial vehicles have different fee schedules. The state publishes the exact fee table each year, and you can look up your vehicle's fee on the Department of Public Safety website before you register.

Your registration fee covers your registration certificate and one set of license plates (or a registration sticker if you are renewing). If you need additional plates — for example, if you have a trailer — you pay an extra fee for each one. Some people also choose to purchase personalized plates, which cost more than standard plates.

Registering a vehicle from out of state

If you are moving to Minnesota and bringing a vehicle registered in another state, you have 60 days from the date you establish Minnesota residency to register it here. After 60 days, you are required to register it, and driving an unregistered vehicle can result in a fine. To register an out-of-state vehicle, bring your current out-of-state title or registration, your Minnesota ID or proof of residency, and payment for the Minnesota registration fee.

Some states issue titles differently than Minnesota does, so the deputy registrar may ask for additional documents to verify ownership. If your out-of-state title is a lien title (meaning a lender holds it), you may need to contact your lender to have the title transferred or to get a letter authorizing the transfer. This process can take a few weeks, so start early if you are planning a move.

Renewing your registration

Minnesota sends renewal notices by mail about 30 days before your registration expires. You can renew in three ways: in person at a deputy registrar office, by mail using the renewal notice, or online through the Department of Public Safety website. Online renewal is the fastest option and takes just a few minutes — you will need your registration number and the last four digits of your vehicle identification number (VIN).

If you renew by mail, include your renewal notice, a check or money order for the fee, and mail it to the address shown on the notice. If you renew in person, bring your renewal notice, your ID, and payment. Your new registration certificate and sticker will arrive by mail within two weeks of approval.

Special situations and additional information

If you are registering a vehicle that was previously registered to someone else in Minnesota, you will need the title signed by the previous owner. If the vehicle has a lien on it (meaning a bank or lender holds the title), you cannot register it in your name until the lien is paid off or the lender signs the title. If you are registering a vehicle that was salvaged or rebuilt after an accident, you will need a salvage or rebuilt title from the state.

If you lose your registration certificate or license plates, you can request replacements at a deputy registrar office or by mail. There is a fee for replacement plates, but replacement certificates are usually free. If your vehicle's information changes — for example, you change your address or the vehicle's color — you can update your registration at a deputy registrar office.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to register a vehicle in Minnesota?

In-person registration usually takes 15 to 30 minutes if you have all your documents. Online renewal takes a few minutes and is processed within two weeks. Mail-in renewal takes about two weeks from the date the office receives it.

Can I register a vehicle online in Minnesota?

You can renew an existing registration online through the Department of Public Safety website. New registrations and transfers from out of state must be done in person or by mail.

What if I buy a vehicle from a private seller instead of a dealership?

You will need the title signed by the seller, proof of the sale price (usually the bill of sale), and your ID and proof of residency. Bring these to a deputy registrar office along with payment for the registration fee.

Do I need to register a vehicle if I only drive it occasionally?

Yes. Any vehicle you drive on Minnesota roads must be registered, regardless of how often you drive it. The only exception is if the vehicle is stored and not driven, in which case you can request a non-operational registration at a lower fee.

What happens if my registration expires?

Driving a vehicle with an expired registration can result in a fine. If your renewal notice did not arrive, you can still renew at a deputy registrar office or by contacting the Department of Public Safety to request a new notice.