Where to register your vehicle in Minneapolis

Vehicle registration in Minneapolis is handled by Hennepin County, not the city itself. You register through the Hennepin County Registrar's Office, which processes all vehicle titles and registrations for the county. The main office is located at 300 South Sixth Street in downtown Minneapolis, though you can also handle registration by mail or through certain deputy registrar locations around the county.

Minnesota requires registration before you can legally drive on public roads. The state issues a registration certificate and license plate, both of which must be current. If you are moving to Minneapolis from another state or buying a vehicle locally, you will need to register it with Hennepin County within a specific timeframe.

Key Takeaways

  • Hennepin County Registrar's Office handles all vehicle registration for Minneapolis residents, located at 300 South Sixth Street downtown.
  • You need your vehicle title, proof of ownership, proof of residency, and a completed MN Form REG 13 to register a vehicle.
  • Registration fees vary based on vehicle type and weight, and you must pay them at the time of registration.
  • You can register by mail, in person, or through deputy registrar offices, and the process typically takes one to two weeks if done by mail.
  • Minnesota requires current registration before you drive legally, and plates expire on your birthday each year.

Documents you need to bring or submit

The Hennepl County Registrar requires several documents to complete registration. You must have the vehicle's title (the document proving ownership), a completed MN Form REG 13 (the registration process), and proof of residency showing your Minneapolis address. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or other official mail dated within the last 30 days.

You also need to show proof of ownership. If you purchased the vehicle from a dealer, they usually provide the title. If you bought it privately, the seller must sign the title over to you before you register it. If the vehicle was financed, your lender's name may appear on the title; you will still register it, but the lender holds a lien until the loan is paid off.

Bring a valid photo ID showing your Minnesota address, or bring two forms of ID if one does not show your address. If you are registering someone else's vehicle, you will need a power of attorney or written authorization from the owner.

Registration fees and what they cover

Minnesota registration fees are based on the vehicle's type and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). A standard passenger car typically costs between $150 and $200 for a two-year registration, though the exact amount depends on the vehicle's age and weight. Trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicle types have different fee schedules.

The registration fee covers your license plate and registration certificate for two years. When you pay, you receive a plate that stays with the vehicle and a sticker that shows your registration is current. Minnesota plates do not expire, but your registration does — it renews on your birthday every two years.

If you are registering a vehicle for the first time in Minnesota, you may also owe a one-time title fee. If the vehicle was previously registered in another state, you will pay a title transfer fee in addition to the registration fee. Ask the registrar's office for the exact total before you pay.

How to register in person at the Hennepl County office

The Hennepl County Registrar's Office at 300 South Sixth Street is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You do not need an appointment; registration is handled on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring all required documents and your payment method (cash, check, or card). The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is.

Arrive early if you can, as the office gets crowded in late morning and early afternoon. If you are registering a vehicle for the first time or if there are any issues with the title, the process may take longer. The registrar will inspect your documents, process your payment, and issue your license plate and registration certificate on the spot.

Registering by mail or through deputy registrars

You can mail your registration documents and payment to the Hennepl County Registrar's Office instead of visiting in person. Include the completed MN Form REG 13, your title, proof of residency, and a check or money order for the registration fee. Mail it to 300 South Sixth Street, Minneapolis, MN 55487. Processing by mail typically takes one to two weeks, and the registrar will mail your plate and certificate back to you.

Several deputy registrar offices around Hennepl County also handle vehicle registration. These are usually located in city halls or service centers and often have shorter wait times than the main office. You bring the same documents and pay the same fees. Search the Hennepl County website for deputy registrar locations and hours near you.

Registration renewal and updating your information

Your registration expires on your birthday every two years. Minnesota sends a renewal notice to your address on file about 30 days before expiration. You can renew by mail, online through the Minnesota Secretary of State website, or in person at the registrar's office. Renewal is simpler than initial registration — you usually just pay the fee and return the renewal form.

If you move to a different address in Minneapolis or elsewhere in Minnesota, you must update your registration. You can do this by mail or in person at the registrar's office. Bring proof of your new address and your current registration certificate. If you move out of Minnesota, you will need to register your vehicle in your new state.

What happens if your registration lapses

Driving with an expired registration is illegal in Minnesota. If you are stopped by police, you can receive a citation and fine. If your registration has expired, renew it when ready through the mail, online, or at the registrar's office. You can renew up to one year after expiration, though you may owe a late fee.

If your registration has been expired for more than one year, you will need to re-register the vehicle as if it were new. This means bringing your title, proof of residency, and paying the full registration fee again. To avoid this, set a reminder on your phone or calendar for your birthday each year so you do not forget to renew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I register a vehicle if I do not have a Minnesota driver's license?

Yes. You need a valid photo ID and proof of residency in Minneapolis, but it does not have to be a Minnesota license. Out-of-state licenses and passports are accepted. Proof of residency can be a utility bill or lease in your name.

How long does it take to get my license plate after I register?

If you register in person, you receive your plate the same day. If you register by mail, the registrar mails your plate and certificate to you, which typically takes one to two weeks depending on postal service.

What if the title has a lien on it from my lender?

You can still register the vehicle. The lender's name on the title does not prevent registration. You will receive the registration certificate, and the lender holds the lien until you pay off the loan. Once paid, you can request a clear title from the lender.

Do I need to register my vehicle if I only park it and do not drive it?

Minnesota law requires registration for any vehicle you own, whether you drive it or not. If you are not driving it, you can request a non-operational registration, which costs less and does not require a license plate.

What if I lost my registration certificate?

You can request a duplicate from the Hennepl County Registrar's Office by mail or in person. Bring your driver's license and vehicle title. There is a small fee for a duplicate certificate, usually around $10 to $15.