Registration FAQs

Vehicle registration in Minnesota is handled by Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) and is relatively simple and straightforward if you follow the state's guidelines.

For answers to some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about vehicle registration and titling in Minnesota, see the answers listed below.

How do I register my vehicle in Minnesota?

To register a motor vehicle in Minnesota, you will need to bring the vehicle's current valid title, or if it's not available, its current registration, to a Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) location. You must also provide the odometer reading on your vehicle, as well as your driver's license or other acceptable identification.

What types of motor vehicles fall under Minnesota's regular registration requirements?

The following vehicles must be registered in Minnesota:

• Passenger vehicles

• Passenger vans

• Three-quarter-ton or lighter pickup trucks

• Motorcycles

• Utility trailers

• House trailers

I am new to Minnesota. How long do I have to register my vehicle here?

New residents of Minnesota must register their vehicles within 60 days of moving to Minnesota. If your out-of-state registration expires before the 60-day grace period, then the vehicle must be registered in Minnesota right away.

I have paid the loan on my car. How do I change this on my Minnesota vehicle registration?

If the title has a lien recorded, and it has been paid, you can submit a lien release with registration.

How does Minnesota registration work if I am leasing my car?

If you are leasing a vehicle, you must provide a copy of the lease agreement, or Power of Attorney from the lease company to you, as well as the lease company's Minnesota tax identification number.

Do I need proof of insurance to register my car in Minnesota?

To register a vehicle in Minnesota, you must provide the name of your insurance company and your policy number. Registering a vehicle in Minnesota means you are attesting to proper insurance coverage. Minnesota's No-Fault Act requires owners of registered vehicles to maintain no-fault insurance.

How much is vehicle registration in Minnesota?

First-time registration is based on the value of the vehicle. The first renewal is a maximum of $189, while second and subsequent renewals are a maximum of $99. For vehicles 10 years of age and older, the minimum registration charge is $35. Motorcycles are $10 annually, and mopeds are $6 annually.

How do I get a duplicate title or registration card?

You may get a replacement title by completing the duplicate title form and taking it to a motor vehicle office. Or, just fill out the form at the office. There's a $6.50 fee to receive the duplicate title. Use the same form to apply for a duplicate registration.

You may also apply by mail by sending the form and payment to:

• Driver and Vehicle Services

• 445 Minnesota St. Suite 168

• St. Paul, MN 55101

How do I receive replacement license plates and stickers?

If you need to replace your plates or stickers, complete the Application for Duplicate Plates and/or Stickers and take it to a motor vehicle office. The fee will vary according to the type and number of plates needed.

What should I do if my registration renewal stickers get lost in the mail?

If this should happen to you, just call (651) 297-2126. The DVS will look into the matter and advise you what to do next.

I’ve heard the IRS honors a tax deduction that has to do with my vehicle registration fees. Is this true?

Yes. The scoop is that the IRS counts a vehicle registration fee that's based on your vehicle's value as a personal property tax, which is deductible. This is true even if your state calls the fee a "registration fee" or a "vehicle use fee." Check out page 146 of the IRS's Publication 17 for more details.

But before you start entering your registration fees on line 7 of the 1040A form, double check to make sure your state calculates the car registration fee based on the car's value. For example, if your state charges you 1% of the car's value each year as a vehicle fee, and you pay $100 based on your car's value ($10,000), then you can deduct $100. If your state charges you for 1% of the car's value, plus a bunch of other miscellaneous fees, then you can still only deduct the $100. The fees might be itemized on your vehicle registration card or registration renewal form.

Other states ignore the car's value and charge only based on the vehicle weight; in those cases, you can't take the deduction.

If you aren't sure about whether the state charges this fee or you can't find the fee, contact your local motor-vehicle office. If you have questions about taking the deduction, call a tax professional or the IRS.

Where can I find more information?

For other questions about vehicle registration in Minnesota, you may reach DVS by phone at (651) 296-6911 or by e-mail at: motor.vehicles@state.mn.us.

What's the skinny on nonoperational vehicles?

You do not have to cancel your registration or insurance when taking your vehicle off the road.

When reinstating your stored vehicle's registration, you will need to bring in the plate number to your local Driver and Vehicle Services office and pay all applicable fees.