DMV Registration Renewal Letter

Each year, you get new license plate stickers at each CA registration renewal, along with a new vehicle registration card. You do not need to get actual new license plates each year, though.

About 60 days before the vehicle registration expires, the California DMV mails you a letter with instructions on how to renew. Most of the time, you may renew your car tags online or by mail, but sometimes there's a reason (such as an address change) that requires you to come in.

The renewal letter includes:

• A Renewal Identification Number (RIN), to use if you’re eligible to renew online.
• Information about whether you need to get a smog check.

Ways to Renew

There are three ways to renew your car registration: online, by mail, or in person.

Online Registration

If the DMV sent you a RIN, you can use the online registration renewal service. You’ll also need to have a current smog certificate (required every two years, generally) and insurance information on file.

1. Go to the DMV’s online renewal link with your RIN. (Make sure you use a current version of an Internet browser so the renewal system will work correctly.)
2. Be ready to pay with a major credit card, check (they use e-Check), or debit card.
3. Follow the instructions provided on the site.

Mail Renewal

1. If needed, get a smog check.
2. Send a money order or check in the amount on your renewal notice to:

In-Person DMV Visit

1. Use the online appointment system to make an appointment, or call your DMV.
2. Complete the emissions test, if required.
3. Bring insurance proof with you. If your company reports electronically, you can skip this.
4. Look on the renewal letter for the amount owed. You can pay by cash, check, money order, or debit. No credit card machines are available.