Vehicle Registration Renewal in OR

In the state of Oregon, first-time vehicle registration is valid for four years; registration renewal is valid for two years. The DMV will mail you a renewal notice 45 to 60 days prior to your car registration expiration date. If you do not receive a renewal notice, contact DMV headquarters directly:

OR DMV Headquarters
1905 Lana Ave. NE
Salem, OR 97314
(503) 945-5400

You can also complete a DMV Question Form on the DMV website.

Oregon offers three ways to renew car registration: online, by mail, and in person.

Renewing Online

You can renew online by visiting the Online Registration Renewal page of the DMV website. Be prepared to provide the following information:

• Vehicle plate number.
• Title number (first five digits).
• The Renewal Access Code listed on your renewal notice.
• Proof of passing an emissions inspection, if applicable.
• Proof of liability insurance.
• Visa, MasterCard, or bank debit card number.

After you have completed the renewal process, print a copy of the receipt for your records and to act as proof of registration renewal. Your new plates and stickers will be mailed to you within one business day, provided you renew before 4 p.m.

Renewing by Mail

In order to renew by mail, send all documents and required fees to DMV headquarters. Fees must be paid in the form of a personal check or money order when renewing by mail.

Renewing in Person

You can renew in person by presenting your renewal notice, insurance information, and proof of passing an emissions inspection (if applicable) to your local DMV branch. If you have misplaced your renewal notice, you must complete an Application for Registration instead.

The DMV website provides a complete list of DMV locations. If you live in the Portland or Rouge Valley areas, you can also renew at a DEQ testing site. The DMV and DEQ offices accept cash, personal check, or money order only.

Emissions Testing Requirements

A smog check is required only of drivers living in the Portland and Rouge Valley areas. Check your renewal notice to determine if a smog check pertains to you. Smog and emissions testing is administered by the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). The DEQ website provides a complete list of inspection locations.

Register Car Fees

The fee for registration renewal of a passenger vehicle is $86. In addition, Multnomah County charges a $19 miscellaneous fee, per registration year.