As technology continues to progress in our society, most people aim to do as many things online as possible, even things pertaining to the DMV. Let’s be honest, no one wants to spend time at the DMV if they don’t have to. Some things, like obtaining a brand new driver’s license, must be done in person, but many other things can now be done online.
You can get car tags online. All 50 states require vehicles to have updated car tags. The process for obtaining or renewing a car tag varies by state, but many offer online options.
This article will discuss car tags and what is needed to get them renewed. We will also talk about some of the consequences of expired car tags. By this article’s conclusion, you will have a better understanding of car tags and feel ready to renew yours online when the time comes.
Contents
Car Tags vs. Plates
First, we need to define what a car tag actually is. A frequent misconception is that a car tag and license plate are the same; this is incorrect.
A car tag is a small sticker placed on a license plate, typically in one of the upper corners of the plate. A car tag notes the status of the vehicle’s registration.
Car tags usually contain a month and year that say when the car’s registration is valid through.
All 50 states require vehicles to have updated registration. Car tags are valid for one year and must be renewed annually to avoid extra fees or other penalties. Most states send a notice to people a few weeks before their registration expires. This notice is usually mailed to the address where the vehicle was last registered.
Once you receive your new car tags, simply place the new sticker over the previous tag.
What Is Needed to Get a Car Tag (Online or In Person)
The price and process by which to receive a car’s registration, or renew an existing registration, depends on which state you live in.
Whether you get your car tags online or in person at the DMV, there are a few documents you will want to have on hand.
Most states require the following documents in order to obtain car tags:
- License plate number
- Vehicle title number
- Proof of insurance
Additionally, some states require vehicle inspections to be completed prior to registration renewal.
Car Tag Fees
Aside from the necessary documents, all states charge a fee for car tags. Car tag fees vary significantly from state to state. Some states have flat rates, while others base prices on vehicle weight, car model, or mileage.
To gain some perspective, let’s look at some specific figures.
In July 2021, the state of Alabama charged $14 for first-time car registration and $12.75 for renewals. In Wisconsin, car registration fees were $85, no matter what. At the same time, Oklahoma charged $96 for new registration, but that fee was set to decrease over time with renewals.
Consequences of Expired Tags
Owning a vehicle with expired tags has consequences, so keeping your vehicle’s registration up-to-date is essential.
Like with the cost of car tags, the penalties for having an expired registration vary from state to state.
In North Carolina, renewing car tags costs roughly $38. If a car’s registration has expired for 1-2 months, an extra $20 fee is added. If the expiration is more than 2 months, the additional fee is $25.
Late fees are one thing, but getting caught driving a vehicle with expired tags will likely land you a ticket and court date as well.
In California, if you are ticketed for driving a vehicle with expired tags, you must pay a $25 fee and show proof to the court that you have updated your car tags. It is also likely that an additional fee called a penalty assessment will be added.
Regardless of the state, failure to appear in court or multiple tickets under the same expired car tag will likely result in a vehicle being impounded. It could also result in a driver’s license being revoked.
Expired car tags are no joke! It is vital to keep your tags up-to-date.
Conclusion
If you are wondering if you can get your car tags online, simply go to your state’s DMV website and check out the options. Thanks to technology, many states offer online options that are quick and seamless.
Before you begin the process, be sure to have all of your documents in order and a debit or credit card for payment. Happy registering!