Renew License Plates in California
Renew your California vehicle registration and get new month/year stickers online, by mail, at a kiosk, or in person. This guide covers exact fees, required documents, forms, and step-by-step methods so you can avoid penalties and keep your plates valid.
Quick Start: Renew Your Ca Plates
- Check your renewal notice for fees and status (smog/insurance/parking holds).
- Renew online at DMV.ca.gov/online or at a DMV Now kiosk with your plate or VIN and last 5 of VIN.
- Pay renewal, county/district, and use taxes/fees; most renewals total $150–$300 for a standard passenger car.
- Receive a temporary registration instantly (online/kiosk) and your sticker by mail; kiosk prints sticker on the spot.
Eligibility
- Vehicle record is active and not in Planned Non-Operation (unless reactivating with fees).
- No unresolved insurance lapse, parking/toll citation, or registration compliance holds.
- Smog check on file if the vehicle is subject to biennial inspection.
- Renewal is not severely delinquent (very late renewals may require office visit).
- All fees due are paid in full.
Documents
- Renewal Notice (Vehicle Registration Renewal Form)
- License Plate Number and Last 5 of VIN
- Proof of Insurance (on File)
- Smog Check Certificate (If Required)
- Payment Method
Fees & Costs
- Fee — $86–$120 Registration renewal base (includes registration, CHP, and other state fees)
- Fee — $20–$150+ Vehicle License Fee (VLF) based on vehicle value
- Fee — $7–$50 County/district fees (transportation, air quality, etc.)
- Fee — $0–$25 Smog abatement (newer vehicles, when applicable)
- Fee — $10–$100+ depending on days late Late penalty (registration, VLF, and weight penalties)
- Fee — $23 Replacement sticker (if lost or damaged)
- Fee — $23 Replacement registration card
- Fee — $3 Kiosk convenience fee (where applicable)
FAQ
When do my California plates expire?
Your registration expires at midnight on the last day of your expiration month (shown on your card and year sticker). You can renew up to 60 days before to avoid last-minute issues.
Do I need a smog check to renew?
Most gasoline vehicles 8 model years and older require a biennial smog. Results are sent electronically by the station. Diesel vehicles and certain hybrids have different rules; if smog is required, your renewal notice will indicate it.
Can I get my sticker immediately?
Yes. DMV Now kiosks print your registration card and year sticker on the spot after payment. Online, you receive a digital receipt immediately and your sticker arrives by mail in about 5–10 business days.
What if I didn’t receive a renewal notice?
You can still renew using your license plate number and the last 5 of your VIN online, at a kiosk, or in person. The notice is helpful but not required.
What if my address changed?
Update your address during the online renewal or submit an Update your address before renewing. California law requires you to notify DMV within 10 days of an Update your address.
What if my sticker or registration card is lost?
Request a replacement; the fee is $23 for a duplicate sticker or registration card. You can replace online, by mail, or in person.
State contact
Phone: (800) 777-0133
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Official site