Top1) Determine the Status of Your Registration

Renew MO Registration

You can renew your vehicle's registration for either one year or two years.

If you're renewing in an odd-numbered calendar year and your vehicle is an odd-numbered model year, you can receive a two-year registration. Similarly, drivers who can are renewing vehicles with even-numbered model years in an even-numbered calendar year can also receive a two-year registration. Otherwise, only a one-year renewal option is available.

In addition to renewing your registration, you must also maintain auto insurance or some other form of financial responsibility for your vehicle. If you don't currently have a policy, or want to compare different quotes, visit our Insurance Center.

If you're ready to renew your registration, scroll down to "Check Your Renewal Notice" to learn how to get started.

Register a Vehicle in MO for the First Time

Please review the information on our Car Registration page if you are a new state resident or a driver who has recently purchased a different vehicle.

Register a Non-Operational Vehicle

To register a non-operational vehicle, you must complete a notarized General Affidavit form. Bring the affidavit to your local Department of Revenue (DOR) office to continue with the registration process.

Top2) Check Your Renewal Notice

The DOR will send you a renewal postcard shortly before your license plates and vehicle registration are scheduled to expire. However, you must still complete the renewal process even if you don't receive this reminder; just download and complete an Application for Motor Vehicle License.

A notice is handy because it provides important renewal information. Your notice may indicate whether your vehicle needs a safety or emissions inspection (certain vehicles must undergo emissions inspections each year their registrations expire). Also, without your notice you can't renew online.

Top3) Calculate Your Fees

The DOR bases registration fees on the taxable horsepower of your vehicle as recorded on your Certificate of Title. So, registration fees vary from vehicle to vehicle because horsepower varies from vehicle to vehicle. Think of vehicle registration fees as similar to car insurance rates in this manner.

There is a $3.50 processing fee for a one-year registration and a $7 processing fee for a two-year registration.

You can learn more about how the DOR calculates fees when you look at the state's fee chart.

Avoid Late Fees and Penalties

You have until the last day of the month of expiration to complete the process; after that, you must pay a $5 penalty. However, because you can renew up to six months in advance, it is advisable to complete your registration renewal as soon as possible.

Top4) Renew Online, In Person, or By Mail

Online

1. Make sure you're eligible to renew online:
   • Your registration must not be expired, and your renewal notice must include a PIN.
   • You must have possession of your paid personal property tax receipt, and the receipt must list your vehicle.
   • Your county must participate in the online renewal system and, if so, your county collector's office must have submitted your property tax payment to the DOR.
   • Your license plate must not be one for disabled drivers.
2. Obtain a safety inspection, an emissions inspection, or both as listed on your renewal notice.
3. Have your proof of insurance handy. (For online renewals, the DOR doesn't accept any other form of financial responsibility).
4. Be prepared to pay with an E-Check or a major credit card (credit card payments require convenience fees).
5. Visit the state's online renewal system, MORE, and follow the instructions.
6. Expect to receive your renewal stickers in the mail within 10 days.

In Person

1. Obtain either or both inspections (safety or emissions) listed on your renewal notice.
2. Locate a registration receipt from the previous year, or the renewal notice from the DOR.
3. Have proof of auto insurance.
4. Provide payment for all necessary fees.
5. Visit any DOR office to renew your car registration in person.

By Mail

1. If you'll be traveling outside the state when it's time to renew your car registration, contact the Motor Vehicle Bureau at via e-mail or call them at (573) 751-4509 to request a packet that includes the necessary forms to submit your registration by mail.
2. Return the completed packet, along with payment for all necessary fees, to the address listed.

Top5) Affix Your Stickers

After completing the registration renewal process, you'll receive a registration card and validation stickers. Keep the card in your vehicle at all times and affix the stickers to your license plates.

Top6) Get a Tax Deduction

If you itemize deductions, keep in mind that vehicle registration fees are considered a property tax expense.

A local tax attorney can answer any questions that you may have about how claiming this deduction on your return can save you money. Additionally, IRS Publication 17 has information about this topic on page 146.

Top7) Do Your Part to Keep Our Roadways Safe

Having a valid registration protects you legally, but there are a number of safety precautions you must also consider before you decide to hit the road.

Oil changes, regular tune ups, tire rotation, and tire replacement are necessary steps to keep your vehicle in top condition. If you don't have the time or skills to perform these tasks on your own, ask friends and family for recommendations until you find a mechanic you can trust.

For added peace of mind, you may also want to look into enrolling in a roadside assistance program or purchasing an after-market auto warranty.

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