Top1) Determine the Status of Your Registration

Oregon vehicle registration takes place on two- and four-year cycles. If you've purchased a new passenger car, light truck, moped, or motorcycle, your first-time registration will be valid for four years. All other vehicle registrations will last two years.

Renew OR Registration

If you own a car, you must register it―and renew that registration―to legally drive it or park it on public roads. You must also have at least the minimum amount of liability coverage for your vehicle to drive legally in the state. If you're looking for a policy to fit your budget and your needs, visit our Insurance Center online to compare quotes and policy features.

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

Register a Vehicle in OR for the First Time

If you've recently purchased a car or are a new resident of the state, you should immediately begin the registration process. For information about first-time registration, see our section on Car Registration.

Register a Non-Operational Vehicle

If your vehicle is non-operational or you don't plan to drive it, you don't need to renew the registration. In fact, you don't even have to notify the the Driver and Motor Vehicle Services Division (DMV) until you decide you do want to operate it again.

If your car is non-operational because it's totaled or heavily damaged, however, you will need to notify the DMV to get a new title for the vehicle.

Top2) Check Your Renewal Notice

The DMV typically sends vehicle owners a renewal notice 45-60 days before the renewal deadline. The notice will also serve as your application for renewal, so it's important to keep it on hand. If you do not receive a renewal notice and your deadline is fast approaching, you can call the DMV at (503) 945-5400 or send an e-mail through the DMV Question Form to request a notice.

You can still renew your registration without a renewal notice, but only by mail or in person (see the applicable sections below).

Your renewal notice will list the registration fees and also include a Renewal Access Code to renew online. The state does require emissions inspections per the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), and your notice may or may not include information about an inspection. Find out more at Smog & Emission Checks.

Top3) Calculate Your Fees

The state calculates registration fees based solely on the type of vehicle you have. The state also charges for license plates, and prices vary depending on the types of plates you want. See above to learn how to obtain another renewal notice.

If you didn't receive a renewal notice, or you misplaced it, call the DMV at (503) 945-5400 or send an e-mail through the DMV Question Form to request another one.

Insurance coverage is another vehicle-related cost and requirement, so if you don't have a policy be sure to check your car insurance options online before attempting to renew your registration.

Avoid Late Fees and Penalties

There is no grace period. Once your registration has expired, you're in danger of receiving a ticket when driving or parking on public roads. If you renew past your deadline, you won't have to pay late fees, however.

Top4) Renew Online, In Person or By Mail

Renew Online

1. If applicable, have proof your vehicle passed its emission inspection.
2. Have your renewal notice and insurance information handy. If you didn't receive a renewal notice, call the DMV at (503) 945-5400 or send an e-mail through the DMV Question Form to request a new one. You cannot renew your registration online without a renewal notice.
3. Have ready your plate number, first five digits of your title number, and the Renewal Access Code (on your renewal notice).
4. Have a Visa or MasterCard credit or debit card available to pay the fees.
5. Sign on to the state's Online Registration Renewal page and complete the steps online as directed.
6. Print your receipt and keep it as proof of your renewal.
7. The DMV will mail your new decals and plates within one business day if you renewed before 4 p.m.

In Person

1. Have your renewal notice and insurance information handy. If you didn't receive a renewal notice, call the DMV at (503) 945-5400 or send an e-mail through the DMV Question Form to request a new one. Or, you can simply complete an Application for Registration instead.
2. Depending on where you live, you might need to obtain emissions certification.
3. Have the required fee in the form of a personal check, money order, or cash only. The DMV does not accept credit or debit cards; however, many offices have on-site ATM machines.
4. Bring everything to your local DMV office. No appointment is necessary.

NOTE: If your vehicle needs to pass a DEQ inspection, you can also renew your registration at an approved DEQ emissions testing site. Be sure to have your renewal notice or an approved Application for Registration with you at the time of testing.

By Mail

1. Follow the instructions on your renewal notice if you have one. If you didn't receive a renewal notice, call the DMV at (503) 945-5400 or send an e-mail through the DMV Question Form to request a new one, or complete an Application for Registration.
2. If your vehicle passed a DEQ inspection, the DMV will receive 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 checks.
3. Mail your renewal notice and and a check or money order for applicable fees to:
   • DMV
   • 1905 Lana Ave. NE
   • Salem, OR 97314

Top5) Affix Your Stickers

Place your stickers on your license plate as soon as you receive them. Refer to the instruction card for correct placement. You can also refer to the placement instructions on the DMV Web site.

Top6) Get a Tax Deduction

Because Oregon does not calculate registration fees based on the value of the vehicle, you cannot claim an IRS deduction for those fees at this time.

For more information about income deductions and tax issues, consult a reputable tax attorney.

Top7) Do Your Part to Keep Our Roadways Safe

Renewing your registration makes your vehicle legally drivable for another two years, but it's not the end of your responsibility. You can do a lot to ensure the safety of yourself, your passengers, and other drivers with a few simple steps.

Stay up to date on your vehicle maintenance. Every car manufacturer recommends regular tune ups, oil changes, and tire rotation to keep your car running smoothly and safely. Replace your tires regularly, and inspect wipers, taillights, headlights, and defrosters from time to time to catch any malfunctions before they turn dangerous.

Invest in a roadside assistance program to help you out during those inevitable minor emergencies, and think ahead and choose a good mechanic before you need one. Finally, consider the purchase of an after-market auto warranty to ease the cost when you're hit with repairs.

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