Registration Renewal in Kansas

1) Determine the Status of Your Registration

Renew KS Registration

Registrations for automobiles, trucks and motorcycles expire on the last day of the month according to a schedule that corresponds with the first letter of your last name. For details, please see the Kansas County Treasurer's Association website.

Having car insurance is just as important as having an updated registration in terms of legally operating your vehicle. If it's time to shop for new rates, visit our Insurance Center.

Learn how to start the renewal process at "Check Your Renewal Notice" below.

Register a Vehicle in KS for the First Time

Our Car Registration page can explain how to complete the initial registration process if you are a new state resident or a driver who has recently purchased a different vehicle.

Register a Non-Operational Vehicle

The state does not offer special registration for non-operational vehicles. However, if you wish to obtain license plates for a salvage or non-highway vehicle, you must take it to a Kansas Highway Patrol inspection station to get a motor vehicle examination (MVE-1) form before you can complete the titling and registration process.

2) Check Your Renewal Notice

You should receive a registration renewal notice in the mail before your registration is due to expire. However, it is still your responsibility to renew on time, even if you don't receive a notice (you don't even need one for an in-person renewal).

Even though you won't find information about emissions inspections (the state doesn't require them), your notice will provide other helpful information about your renewal process. If you need a copy, call (785) 296-3621 and be ready with your vehicle's license plate number, identification number, make, and year.

3) Calculate Your Fees

If you have questions regarding the amount of your vehicle registration fees, contact your County Treasurer's office.

Keep in mind that drivers of more valuable vehicles can expect to pay more in registration fees than those who own older automobiles. In this way, vehicle registration is similar to car insurance.

Avoid Late Fees and Penalties

It is advisable to renew your vehicle registration as soon as possible. You will get a ticket if a law enforcement officer finds that you are driving without a valid registration.

4) Renew Online, In Person or By Mail

Online

1. Have a credit card handy to pay the property taxes and registration renewal fees.
2. Be sure that your insurance company is enrolled with the DMV. Only those insurance companies that are enrolled are able to be verified online. If your insurance company is not registered, you will not be able to renew your registration by computer.
3. Log on to Web-Tags and follow the instructions.

In Person

1. Make sure you have your license plate number and proof of insurance.
2. Have payment for all necessary fees.
3. Stop by your local County Treasurer's office any time before the registration on your vehicle expires.

By Mail

1. Fill out the requested information on your renewal notice.
2. Prepare your payment. Be sure to write your registration number on your check or money order.
3. Return your payment and renewal application by mail in the enclosed envelope.

5) Affix Your Stickers

In most cases, you should receive your registration stickers within two weeks of submitting your renewal application. If you believe your new stickers have been lost in the mail, please contact your County Treasurer's office to request a replacement.

Once you receive your stickers, affix them to your license plate according to the included instructions. The stickers are a tool to allow law enforcement officers to quickly see if your registration is up to date; however, you must still carry the registration card in your vehicle at all times.

6) Get a Tax Deduction

Your vehicle registration fee is considered a property tax expense for the purpose of calculating deductions on your income taxes. If you itemize deductions, claiming this credit can save you some money.

IRS Publication 17 has additional information about this topic on page 146, and a local tax attorney can answer any questions that you may have about how to correctly prepare your return.

7) Do Your Part to Keep Our Roadways Safe

To reduce your chances of getting stranded, it's important to keep your vehicle in top condition. This includes tire rotation, tire replacement, oil changes, and regular tune ups. Look for a mechanic you can trust if you don't have the time or skills to perform these tasks on your own.

For the safety-conscious driver, enrolling in a roadside assistance program or purchasing an after-market auto warranty can provide additional reassurance while on the road.

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