Each state’s website is different, but it’s safe to assume you’ll need to enter your vehicle’s VIN number (and perhaps other vehicle or driver/owner info) in order to access the current registration status. In Florida, for example, you need either the VIN number or the vehicle’s title number, while in Ohio you need the license plate number, last 4 digits of the VIN, and your email address. Here are the links to the appropriate sites for each of the 10 largest U. S. states (by population): California; Texas; Florida; New York; Pennsylvania; Illinois; Ohio; Georgia; North Carolina; Michigan.
Here are the phone numbers for the 10 most populous U. S. states: California: 1-800-777-0133 Texas: 1-888-368-4689 Florida: 1-850-617-2000 New York: 1-800-698-2931 Pennsylvania: 1-717-412-5300 Illinois: 1-800-252-8980 Ohio: 1-844-644-6268 Georgia: 1-855-406-5221 North Carolina: 1-919-715-7000 Michigan: 1-888-767-6424
Several states allow you to make an online reservation ahead of time, which can definitely shorten your waiting time at the DMV. Check to see if your state offers this perk, and definitely take advantage of it if available. [3] X Research source
For example, if your registration was suspended due to lapsed vehicle insurance, get proof of insurance documentation from your insurance company. Or, if it was suspended for unpaid tolls, gather documentation showing that you have paid all overdue tolls (and any fines). Don’t be surprised if you have to pay some sort of fine or fee in order to restore your registration. If you believe your registration was wrongly suspended, gather whatever documentation you have to support your case, and consider consulting an attorney with relevant experience.
The size, shape, and layout of the registration card varies by state, but it’s typically small enough to easily fit into your vehicle’s glovebox—because this is the recommended place to keep it! (Most states require you to keep your registration card in your vehicle, and to show it to law enforcement if requested. ) Some states also require you to affix registration stickers to your license plate(s). These should arrive by mail along with your new/renewed registration card. If your registration has been suspended, your card won’t reveal this information. You’ll have to check online, by phone, or in person.
Your valid state driver’s license Your vehicle’s VIN (here’s help finding it) Your license plate number Auto insurance information
Expect the fees for a replacement registration card to be under $30. If your registration expires in less than 6 months, the fee may be reduced.
Call the state department of motor vehicles if you can’t order online. When ordering online or by phone, you’ll typically need a major credit or debit card to pay any replacement fees. If you order a replacement registration online, some states may provide a digital copy that you can print and place in your vehicle right away.
Remember to check your DMV’s website to see if you can book an appointment online instead of waiting in line at the office.
Make a photocopy of your registration card so you don’t have to pay to replace it if you lose it again. While some states may require you to have the original card in your vehicle, others accept a legible photocopy as proof of registration.
The renewal notice includes information about the renewal process and what documents and information you’ll need. It also tells you how much money you owe in taxes and registration fees and what methods of payment are accepted. Keep your renewal notice for your records until after you’ve renewed your registration and have your new registration card.
Any necessary documents will be listed on your renewal notice. If you didn’t receive a renewal notice, get the same information on the website for your state’s department of motor vehicles or by calling the department’s number.
You may also be required to pass an emissions inspection before you can renew your registration. If you live in California, for example, you’ll probably have to get a “smog check” done on your vehicle first.
Your renewal notice may include a PIN or other code for you to enter when renewing your registration online. If you’ve lost your renewal notice, however, you may still be able to look up your information and renew online.
Typically, if you renew your registration in person, you’ll get your new registration card immediately.
Larger, heavier vehicles typically pay more road-use tax than lighter vehicles. Some states may offer discounts if you have a fuel-efficient or electric vehicle.
When you get your new registration card, destroy your old registration card and put the new one in your vehicle’s glove box.
