Minnesota Vehicle Registration

Vehicle Registration for New Residents in Minnesota

New Minnesota residents must register their vehicle within 60 days of establishing residency. During the application process, the applicants are urged to bring the following documents:

• Out-of-state title or registration card
• Valid driver's license or Minnesota ID
• Proof of Minnesota auto insurance
• Completed Application for Title and Registration (Form PS2000)
• Vehicle identification number (VIN) and current odometer reading

For the most efficient service, it is suggested that applicants visit any Deputy Registrar Offices scattered across Minnesota. With 174 locations throughout the state, these offices are well-equipped to guide applicants through obtaining their Minnesota vehicle registration and title.

For those who are unable to apply in person, they may send their application via mail using the address below:

Remember, failing to register within the 60-day window can result in fines. If applicants have questions, contacting MN DVS directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information is best.

Vehicle Registration for Military Members in Minnesota

Military personnel stationed in Minnesota have specific vehicle registration provisions that differ from those of civilian residents. Understanding these regulations is crucial for compliance and avoiding potential penalties.

Active duty military members who are Minnesota residents stationed out of state can maintain their Minnesota registration while away. They are eligible for exemption from specific fees stipulated in the Minnesota Statutes, Section 168.031.

The state offers flexibility for non-resident military personnel stationed in Minnesota. These service members can keep their home state registration or register their vehicles in Minnesota. If opting for Minnesota registration, they must follow the standard new resident procedures within 60 days of arrival.

Military members benefit from exemptions on specific taxes and fees. For instance, they may be exempt from paying Minnesota sales tax on vehicles purchased while on active duty. However, proper documentation, such as military orders and proof of out-of-state residency, is required to claim these exemptions.

The registration process for military members includes the following:

• Gathering necessary documents (military ID, orders, vehicle title, proof of insurance)
• Completing the Application for Title and Registration form
• Visiting a Deputy Registrar's office or submitting by mail if stationed out-of-state
• Paying applicable fees (with potential exemptions)
• Receiving Minnesota plates and registration

For the most current information and assistance, military personnel are encouraged to contact the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs or visit the official MN DVS online services, which provides dedicated resources for service members.

Registration of Vehicles Purchased From a Dealership in Minnesota

The registration process for purchasing a new or used vehicle from a dealership in Minnesota is typically streamlined. Most dealerships handle the initial paperwork for a smoother buyer experience.

The dealership will collect the necessary information and fees upon finalizing the purchase. They are also tasked to submit an application for title and registration to the MN DVS on the applicant's behalf.

This legal process includes the following:

• Providing proof of insurance to the dealership
• Verifying applicant's personal information for accuracy
• Paying required fees and taxes, often included in the purchase agreement

The dealership will issue temporary tags, typically valid for 21 days. This allows owners to drive legally while their permanent registration is processed.

Applicants will receive their permanent license plates and registration cards by mail within a few weeks. If they don't obtain them before the temporary tags expire, they may contact the dealership or DVS promptly at (651) 297-2126.

While dealerships handle most of the registration process, it's wise for individuals to familiarize themselves with Minnesota's vehicle registration requirements. This knowledge ensures that everything is completed correctly.

Registration of Vehicles Purchased From a Private Party in Minnesota

Purchasing a vehicle from a private party in Minnesota requires more tedious effort from the buyer than dealership purchases. Buyers must receive a properly signed title from the seller to guarantee that the vehicle is free of liability.

To make the process more seamless, applicants should have the following documents:

• The signed title
• A bill of sale (if available)
• Proof of Minnesota auto insurance
• Applicant's driver's license or state ID

The applicants are advised to visit the Deputy Registrar's office ten days after the purchase. They are asked to prepare a completed Application for Title and Registration. More importantly, they have to pay necessary fees and taxes, which include the following:

• Title transfer fee
• Registration tax (based on the vehicle's age and value)
• State sales tax (unless exempt)
• Plate fees (if new plates are needed)

The office will process the application and issue temporary registration. In a few weeks, applicants will receive their permanent license plates and registration cards by mail.

If the vehicle is from out-of-state, applicants may need a VIN verification. This can typically be done at the Deputy Registrar's office.

Be aware of potential emissions testing requirements for older vehicles in certain counties.

Following these steps and being prepared with the proper documents, individuals can smoothly register their privately purchased vehicle in Minnesota and legally drive on the road.

Minnesota License Plates

After registering a vehicle in Minnesota, the owner receives license plates to display on the vehicle. These plates serve as visible proof of the vehicle's registration and identification. The standard Minnesota plate features a blue background with white lettering, showcasing the state's nickname, "10,000 Lakes."

Typically, the plate includes a combination of three letters followed by three numbers. Minnesota requires both front and rear plates on most vehicles.

In addition to the standard plates, Minnesota DVS offers various specialty plates, allowing residents to support causes or showcase affiliations. Specialty designs may require ordering and waiting.

Minnesota has been modernizing its license plate production using advanced digital technology since 2008. Initially focusing on passenger vehicles, this transition aims to eventually include all types of license plates in the state. The new Digital License Plate (DLP) system produces flat plates with black characters.

For inquiries about this innovative system, the DVS can be reached at (651) 284-3896. The complete transition to DLP across all Minnesota plates is a multi-year process.

How To Obtain Vanity License Plates in Minnesota?

Obtaining vanity license plates in Minnesota involves a unique process that allows drivers to personalize their vehicle's identification. The process involves visiting the online services offered by MN DVS or a local DVS office.

Vanity plates can have up to seven characters, including letters and numbers. Avoid offensive or misleading combinations, as these will be rejected. Applicants may refer to the Application for Special Plates (PS2010) form for a comprehensive understanding of how vanity plates are obtained.

Once applicants have selected an available combination, they are asked to complete the Application for Special Plates form. The current plate number, vehicle information, and the desired vanity plate text are needed in the process.

Apply along with the required fees, such as the unique and personalized plate fees, in addition to standard registration costs. These fees are subject to change, so applicants are advised to verify current rates with the DVS.

Processing typically takes 6-8 weeks. During this time, individuals may continue using their current plates. The DVS will mail the new vanity plates once approved and manufactured.

Attach them to the vehicle upon receiving their plates and destroy the old ones.

Renewing vanity plates annually is essential to maintaining their validity. If the chosen combination is unavailable, individuals may be offered alternatives or the option to join a waiting list.

For applications via mail, individuals may address the application below:

Online Renewal

To renew a Minnesota vehicle registration online after receiving a renewal notice, begin by visiting the official MN DVS online services for car registrations.

Next, applicants must enter their license plate number and the final three digits of their VIN. If they need to update their address, they may provide either their Minnesota Driver's License or ID number or the control number from the renewal notice.

Finally, they can submit the payment for the amount calculated by the system. This streamlined process allows for convenient and efficient vehicle registration renewal from the comfort of the owner's home.

Note that online tab renewal is only available for standard passenger-class vehicles, such as cars, pick-ups under 1 ton, and SUVs. All other vehicle classes must be renewed at a Deputy Registrar's office or by mail.

In-Person Renewal

For in-person renewal, applicants are advised to visit their local DVS office. They must bring their current car registration, proof of insurance, and other documents needed to apply for a name change or address.

Afterward, applicants must fill out the Vehicle Registration Renewal form and pay the applicable registration renewal fee.

Renewal via Mail

After receiving the renewal notice, applicants must carefully examine the provided information. They should update the permanent address in the designated area on the form's reverse side if the permanent address changes.

Separate the renewal form along the perforated line and include it with the payment, either a check or money order payable to DVS Renewal. Then, applicants should use the enclosed envelope to mail their renewal to the DVS Renewal office at P.O. Box 64587 in St. Paul, Minnesota, zip code 55164-0587.

Usually, processing takes about ten days. However, for updated addresses, expect a slightly longer wait time. This mail-in method offers a straightforward alternative for those who prefer traditional renewal processes over online options.