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How to Renew Mississippi Vehicle Registration

3 min read

In Mississippi, vehicle registration must be renewed annually through the Mississippi Department of Revenue (DOR). Keeping your registration current ensures your vehicle remains legally operable on state roads. This article explains the steps to renew your vehicle registration, available renewal methods, necessary documents, fees, and what to do if you're late.

When to Renew

Your Mississippi vehicle registration expires one year from the date it was originally issued. The expiration date is printed on your registration certificate and renewal notice. The state mails out a reminder notice before your registration expires, but it's your responsibility to renew on time, even if the notice isn't received.

Renewal Methods

You can renew your Mississippi vehicle registration in three ways:

1. Online

Renewing online is the fastest and most convenient option. Visit the official Mississippi DOR portal and follow the instructions. You’ll need:

  • License plate number
  • Last four digits of the vehicle’s VIN
  • A valid credit or debit card for payment

2. In Person

Visit your local county Tax Collector’s office to renew in person. Bring:

  • Current vehicle registration or renewal notice
  • Valid photo ID
  • Proof of Mississippi insurance
  • Payment for renewal fees

Office hours and wait times vary; check the Mississippi DMV Locations and Service Hours for specifics.

3. By Mail

You can mail your renewal notice, proof of insurance, and payment (check or money order) to your local Tax Collector’s office. Make sure to send it well in advance of your expiration date to avoid late fees.

Required Documents

Regardless of how you renew, have the following ready:

  • Vehicle license plate number
  • Last four digits of VIN
  • Proof of Mississippi liability insurance
  • Valid form of payment

If renewing in person or by mail, your renewal notice acts as a key document but isn't mandatory if other details are provided.

Renewal Fees

Fees vary depending on vehicle type, weight, and county. A standard passenger vehicle typically costs $14 for registration, with potential additional fees for county road and bridge maintenance or solid waste management.

Use the Mississippi DMV Fee Schedule Overview to estimate your renewal cost.

Late Renewals and Penalties

If you renew after your expiration date, a late fee of $250 may apply, and your vehicle may be considered unregistered. Law enforcement can issue citations for expired registration, which may lead to additional fines.

Special Circumstances

Moving to a New County

If you've moved to a different county within Mississippi, you must renew in the new county and provide proof of residence, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.

Out-of-State Residents

If you're temporarily out of state and unable to renew in person or by mail, you can usually still renew online. If issues arise, contact your home county’s Tax Collector.

Lost Renewal Notice

You don’t need the renewal notice to renew, especially online. Your plate number and VIN are sufficient to retrieve your information.

For more information on Mississippi vehicle registration, see the Vehicle Registration Process in Mississippi or learn about Transferring Vehicle Registration After Moving to MS.

To explore all DMV-related services, you can also refer to Required DMV Forms and How to Use Them in MS and Mississippi DMV Locations and Service Hours.