What Minnesota tabs are and how to renew them

Minnesota vehicle registration tabs are the stickers you place on your license plate to show your registration is current. When your tabs expire, you need to renew them through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. The state offers three main ways to renew: online through the state website, by mail, or in person at a Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office.

You can renew your tabs up to 90 days before they expire, which means you do not have to wait until the last moment. Most people renew online because it is the fastest option and requires no trip to an office. The process takes about 10 minutes if you have your vehicle information and payment method ready.

Key Takeaways

  • Minnesota tabs can be renewed online, by mail, or at a DVS office up to 90 days before expiration.
  • Online renewal through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website is the fastest method and takes about 10 minutes.
  • You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN), license plate number, and current registration documents to renew.
  • Renewal fees vary based on your vehicle type and weight, and the state accepts credit cards, debit cards, and e-checks online.
  • After renewal, new tabs arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days if you renew online.

Renewing tabs online through the state website

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety website (mndrivingrecords.org) is where you start an online renewal. Go to the vehicle registration section and select "Renew Registration." You will be asked to enter your vehicle identification number (VIN) and license plate number. The system will pull up your current registration information.

Review the information on screen to make sure it is correct. If your address, vehicle details, or owner information has changed, you will need to update it before paying. Once everything matches, you can proceed to payment. The state accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, and e-checks. After you pay, you will receive a confirmation number by email.

New tabs will arrive at the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You should place them on your license plate as soon as they arrive. If you do not receive your tabs within two weeks, contact the Minnesota Department of Public Safety to check the status of your order.

Renewing tabs by mail

To renew by mail, you need to send your current registration card and a check or money order to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. The address for mail-in renewals is listed on your registration card under "Renew By Mail." Include a note with your name, phone number, and email address so the state can contact you if there are any issues.

Mail-in renewal takes longer than online renewal — typically 2 to 3 weeks from the time the state receives your payment. Send your renewal at least 30 days before your tabs expire to avoid driving with expired registration. Keep a copy of your registration card and the check number for your records in case you need to follow up.

Renewing tabs in person at a DVS office

You can walk into any Driver and Vehicle Services office in Minnesota and renew your tabs on the spot. Bring your current registration card, proof of insurance, and a valid form of payment (cash, check, debit card, or credit card). The office staff will verify your information, process your payment, and issue new tabs when ready.

In-person renewal is useful if your tabs have already expired or if you need them the same day. DVS offices are located throughout Minnesota, and you can find the one nearest you on the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website. Wait times vary by location and time of day, so arriving early in the morning or on a weekday typically means shorter lines.

What information and documents you will need

Before you start any renewal method, gather your vehicle identification number (VIN), which appears on your registration card and on the dashboard of your vehicle. You will also need your current license plate number and your registration card itself. If you are renewing online, you may be asked to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your driving record.

If your address has changed since your last registration, bring proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement works. If you are renewing in person, bring proof of current insurance. Some DVS offices may ask for additional documents if your vehicle information has changed significantly, so call ahead if you think your situation is unusual.

Understanding renewal fees and what affects the cost

Minnesota registration renewal fees depend on your vehicle's type, weight, and age. A standard passenger car costs less to renew than a truck or SUV. The state website will show you the exact fee before you pay, so you will know the cost before committing to the renewal.

Some vehicles may may have access to for reduced fees — for example, electric vehicles have different fee structures than gas-powered cars. If you own a vehicle that is 20 years old or older, you may be able to renew under the "Classic Vehicle" registration, which has lower fees. Check the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website to see if your vehicle qualifies for any special rate.

What to do if your tabs have already expired

If you are driving with expired tabs, you can still renew when ready through any of the three methods. However, if you are pulled over, you may receive a citation. Renewing as soon as possible stops the clock on any potential penalties. Online renewal is fastest in this situation because you can renew and receive a confirmation number within minutes, though the physical tabs will still take 7 to 10 business days to arrive.

If your tabs expired more than a few days ago and you need to drive before new tabs arrive, consider renewing in person at a DVS office. You will receive temporary tabs or a registration document you can carry in your vehicle to show law enforcement that your renewal is in progress. This protects you from citations while you wait for the new tabs to arrive by mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my tabs if my vehicle registration is suspended?

No. If your registration is suspended due to unpaid tickets, insurance lapses, or other violations, you must resolve the suspension first. Contact the Minnesota Department of Public Safety or your local DVS office to find out why your registration is suspended and what steps you need to take to clear it.

What happens if I renew online but do not receive my tabs within two weeks?

Contact the Minnesota Department of Public Safety with your confirmation number. They can track your order and reissue tabs if necessary. Keep your confirmation email as proof of payment in case there is a delay or issue with delivery.

Do I need to renew my tabs if I sold my vehicle?

No. Once you sell your vehicle, the registration transfers to the new owner. You do not need to renew tabs for a vehicle you no longer own. Make sure to notify the state of the sale so you are not held responsible for registration fees or violations after the sale date.

Can I renew someone else's vehicle tabs?

Yes, if you have the vehicle's VIN, license plate number, and registration card, you can renew on behalf of the owner. Online renewal does not require proof of ownership, so anyone with this information can complete the process. In-person renewal may require the registered owner to be present, depending on the DVS office's policy.

What if my address changed since my last registration?

Update your address during the renewal process. Online, you can change it before paying. By mail or in person, bring proof of your new address. The state will mail your new tabs to the updated address on file.