Registration Renewal in Nevada

1) Determine the Status of Your Nevada Registration

You must renew your vehicle's registration annually.

Renew NV Registration

The registration expires on a specific date (included on your renewal notice) and not at the end of the month on your decals. There is no grace period if you let the registration lapse. If your registration expires and law enforcement stops you before you renew it, you will receive a fine and your car could be impounded.

Although you don't have to show proof at the time of renewal, it's very important to maintain the proper amount of liability coverage on your vehicle at all times. If you're not happy with your current policy, find one that better fits your budget and your needs when you visit our Insurance Center online.

To learn more about renewing your existing registration, scroll down to the section titled "Check Your Renewal Notice."

Register a Vehicle in NV for the First Time

When you purchase a car or become a new resident, you'll register the vehicle in the state (or your name) for the first time. Learn everything you need to know about first-time registration in our section on car registration.

Register a Non-Operational Vehicle

You don't have to renew registration or check emissions on a non-operational vehicle in Nevada. You will, however, need to complete an Affidavit of Non-Operation. Submit the form at your local DMV office, where an authorized representative will sign it.

If you're mailing in the form, you can opt to have the affidavit notarized instead. Mail the notarized affidavit to the address printed on the form.

2) Check Your Renewal Notice

As long as your mailing address is current with the DMV, you will receive a renewal notice as your deadline approaches. If you don't receive a notice, e-mail the DMV and provide your name, license plate number, and current address. The DMV will contact you with instructions for renewing your registration.

Your renewal notice will list the taxes and fees for your vehicle, and notify you about any smog and emissions requirements. It also typically lists an access code that lets you renew online.

3) Calculate Your Fees

Because the state calculates your registration fees on a number of factors, the total amount will vary from person to person. You can estimate your registration fees online, however. You will need to have your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on hand to use the online system.

If you didn't receive a renewal notice, or you misplaced it, you can get instructions for renewing when you e-mail the DMV with your name, license plate number, and current address. The DMV can also give you details about fees and taxes, such as the mandatory Governmental Services Tax that is calculated much like car insurance rates―the more valuable your vehicle, the higher the rate.

Avoid Late Fees and Penalties

The state doesn't have a grace period for registration renewals, and collects late fees once your deadline has passed. The deadline is always a specific day, not just the end of the month printed on your decal, so be sure to understand how much time you really have.

4) Renew Online, In Person or By Mail

Renew Online

1. Make sure you have passed the required smog check (if applicable).
2. Locate your renewal notice. You'll need the access code on your renewal notice (or your license plate number and the last four digits of your VIN) to sign on.
3. Have an acceptable form of payment for the fees. The DMV accepts e-checks, debit cards, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express as valid forms of payment online.
4. Sign on to the online renewal site and complete the steps as directed.
5. Your records will update immediately in the DMV system; expect your permanent decals and certificate to arrive in the mail within two business days.

In Person

1. Have your renewal notice handy. If you didn't receive a renewal notice, e-mail the DMV for instructions. Be sure to provide your name, license plate number, and current address.
2. Depending on where you live, you might need to obtain emissions certification. Learn more in our section on smog and emissions.
3. Have acceptable payment for the required fees. The DMV accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, cash, debit cards, money orders, and personal checks.
4. Bring everything to your local DMV office or self-service kiosk. No appointment is necessary.

By Mail

1. Follow the instructions on your renewal notice if you have one. If you didn't receive a renewal notice, e-mail the DMV for instructions. Be sure to provide your name, license plate number, and current address.
2. If you obtained emissions certification, the DMV receives the results electronically, so you do not need to send in your certificate. Find out everything you need to know in our section on smog and emissions.
3. Mail your renewal notice, and applicable fees to:
   • Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles
   • Central Services and Records
   • 555 Wright Way
   • Carson City, NV 89711-0700

5) Affix Your Stickers

When you receive your decals, place them on your rear license plate immediately. Refer to the information included with the stickers for correct placement.

6) Get a Tax Deduction

Because Nevada does not calculate registration fees based on the value of the vehicle, you cannot claim an IRS deduction for those fees. The Governmental Services Tax, however, is based on the value of your vehicle, so you might be able to get a deduction for that amount.

Consult a reputable tax attorney for details about the deduction.

7) Do Your Part to Keep Our Roadways Safe

Staying safe doesn't just mean driving carefully. There's a lot you can do to increase your safety simply by maintaining your vehicle. Getting regular tune ups, oil changes, and tire rotation (or periodic replacement) can help you avoid many problems on the road.

Be proactive and expect the unexpected. Invest in a roadside assistance program and find a good mechanic before you need one. You can even be proactive about saving money on repairs when you purchase an after-market auto warranty.

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