Registration Renewal in West Virginia
Here's exactly how to renew your West Virginia vehicle registration — every route the state offers, what it costs, and what to do if your tags already expired. Start below, or ask Sam about your exact case.
How to renew your vehicle registration in West Virginia
Registration Renewal in West Virginia
In West Virginia, you will be required to renew your vehicle registration with the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
The state allows you to renew by mail or in person.
WV Vehicle Registration Renewal Notice
The West Virginia DMV mails a registration renewal notice approximately 30 days from the expiration date listed on your registration. This notice will contain pertinent information about your renewal, including your renewal date and the fee you'll be required to pay.
Didn't Receive a Renewal Notice?
In West Virginia, you are required to renew your registration whether or not you receive your renewal notice. However, if you do not have one, you may use your old WV registration document to renew.
Renewing Your WV Vehicle Registration
Before your registration is set to expire, you can renew your registration online, by mail or in person at a WV DMV regional office or any county sheriff’s office.
If you've already renewed your vehicle's registration, you can check the status of your order by contacting the WV DMV.
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How to Renew Registration By Mail
To renew your WV registration by mail:
- Fill out the Registration Renewal Notice (DMV-44-TR), and enclose:
- A copy of your insurance information.
- Your personal property tax receipt.
- Your expiring registration card, if you did not receive a renewal notice.
- Make out a check or money order for your WV registration renewal fees (see “West Virginia Registration Renewal Fees" below).
Place everything in a stamped envelope and send to the address listed on the form.
How to Renew In Person
To renew your West Virginia registration in person at your local DMV Regional Office or your local county sheriff’s office, you must provide:
- A completed Registration Renewal Notice (DMV-44-TR).
- Bring your expiring registration card, if you do not have a renewal notice.
- A copy of your insurance information.
- Your personal property tax receipt.
- Payment for your WV registration renewal fees (see “West Virginia Registration Renewal Fees" below).
West Virginia Registration Renewal Fees
Your vehicle registration fees depend on how long you opt to renew your WV registration.
- 1 year: $51.50.
- 2 years: $103.
- Duplicate registration or license plate decal: $10.
- Duplicate license plate: $10.50.
Acceptable Payment Methods
- In person:
- Cash.
- Check.
- Money order.
- Credit card.
- By mail:
- Check.
- Money order.
Military & Out-of-State Registration Renewal
If you're a resident currently outside of West Virginia when your renewal approaches – including an active member of the military – you can keep your WV vehicle registration current by following the “By Mail" instructions outlined in the section above titled, “Renew Your WV Vehicle Registration."
West Virginia Vehicle Inspections
West Virginia requires safety inspections of all vehicles every 24 months.
You will NOT need to show proof of vehicle inspection to renew your WV registration. However, it is illegal to drive without a valid inspection sticker.
NOTE: Emissions testing is NOT required in West Virginia.
Duplicate Registration or License Plate
You must replace your license plate and/or registration card if it becomes worn, faded, illegible, or destroyed. If your license plate is stolen or lost, notify the police right away.
You can replace your license plates, registration, or decals online, by mail, or in person.
Online
To replace your WV vehicle registration, plates or decals online:
- Go to the DMV self-service page.
- Enter the vehicle owner name.
- Select the document you are applying for.
- Submit your contact and vehicle information.
- Pay the appropriate fees (see “West Virginia Registration Renewal Fees" above).
By Mail
To apply for duplicate WV registration, plates, or decals in West Virginia by mail:
- Fill out an Application for Duplicate Registration Card, Decal, or Plate & Change of Address (DMV-32-TR).
- Make out a check or money order for the appropriate fee (see “West Virginia Registration Renewal Fees" above).
- Enclose everything in a stamped envelope and send to the address on the form.
In Person
To obtain duplicate WV registration, decals, or plates at your regional DMV office:
- Submit an Application for Duplicate Registration Card, Decal, or Plate & Change of Address (DMV-32-TR).
- Pay the applicable fees (see “West Virginia Registration Renewal Fees" above).
West Virginia Registration Renewal: FAQs
What is the grace period for expired registration in West Virginia?
There is no grace period for expired West Virginia registrations. You are responsible for renewing your registration on time.
What is the fine for expired registration in West Virginia?
The WV DMV doesn't state base penalty fees, but your city and/or county may. For example, the city of Clarksburg assesses a late fee of $162.
How much is the registration fee in West Virginia?
The base rate for a registration renewal in Hawaii is $46, though your fees will be specific to your vehicle and county.
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