Renewing your vehicle tags on time in Missouri isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s crucial to avoid fines, towing, and potential penalties. Whether you’re renewing in person, online, by mail, or over the phone, this guide walks you through everything you need to know for a smooth renewal process.
1. Why Renewing Your Tags Matters
Your Missouri license plate tags expire annually (or biennially if you’re eligible), and failure to renew on time can result in a $5 late fee, fines, or even towing in certain cities. You can renew up to six months before the expiration month, and it must be completed by the last day of that month.
2. What You Need to Renew Your Tags
To successfully renew your vehicle tags in Missouri, you’ll need to provide the following documentation:
A. Renewal Notice or Form 184
If you received a renewal notice from the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR), you’re all set. This notice contains a PIN for online renewal. If you didn’t get a notice, you can still renew by completing Form 184 – Application for Motor Vehicle License, available online.
B. Personal Property Tax Receipt
You must show proof that you paid your personal property taxes for the previous year (or past two years if doing a two-year renewal). Acceptable forms include:
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A printed or electronic receipt from your county collector
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A non-assessment statement if you didn’t own any property
C. Safety and Emissions Inspection
If required, include a vehicle inspection certificate:
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Vehicles over 5 years old may need safety inspections
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Emissions testing is required in select counties like St. Louis and Jefferson
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Many newer vehicles under 150,000 miles are exempt
D. Proof of Insurance
Bring a current insurance ID card or document showing proof of financial responsibility.
E. Current Plates and Payment
If renewing in person, bring your current plates or tabs. Fees vary depending on vehicle type and weight, typically ranging from $24.25 to $114.50, plus processing fees. A $5 late penalty applies if you’re renewing after your tags expire.
3. How to Renew Your Tags
A. Online
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Go to dor.mo.gov
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Enter your PIN (from the renewal notice) or plate + last 4 of VIN
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Pay via credit/debit or e-check (processing fee applies)
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Print your temporary receipt; plates or tabs arrive by mail in ~14 days
You cannot renew online if your registration expired more than 90 days ago.
B. By Mail
Mail the following to the Missouri DOR:
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Renewal notice or completed Form 184
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Property tax receipt
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Inspection certificate (if required)
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Proof of insurance
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Payment (check or money order)
This is a good option if you prefer not to visit a license office or lack internet access.
C. By Phone
Call (573) 751-1957, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. You’ll need:
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License plate number
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Last four digits of VIN
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Payment info
Not all renewals are eligible by phone, but the staff can guide you through your options.
D. In-Person
Visit any Missouri license office with:
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Your renewal notice or Form 184
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All required documents
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Payment (cash, card, or check)
Pro Tip: Avoid visiting during the end-of-month rush to minimize wait times.
4. Special Situations
A. Military Members or Out-of-State Residents
If you’re stationed out-of-state or traveling for over 60 days, you may:
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Skip inspections for now
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Mark the appropriate section on Form 184
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Complete the inspection within 10 days of returning to Missouri
Military members may also waive the $5 late penalty by submitting military orders.
B. Two-Year Registration
You may be eligible for a two-year registration if:
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Your vehicle is an even model year (renew in even-numbered year)
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Or odd model year (renew in odd-numbered year)
5. Penalties and Enforcement
While Missouri only charges a $5 late fee for expired tags, some cities have become stricter:
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In Springfield, expired plates can result in fines or towing
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In St. Louis and Kansas City, police are cracking down on registration scofflaws
Avoid unnecessary stress—renew on time and keep your records up to date.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I lost my renewal notice—what should I do?
A: Complete Form 184 and renew online, by mail, or in person.
Q: Can I renew online if I’m past my expiration?
A: Yes—if your registration expired within the last 90 days and you have your PIN.
Q: What if my inspection isn’t ready yet?
A: You must wait for the inspection certificate unless you’re exempt.
Q: Do I need to show insurance every year?
A: Yes, proof of financial responsibility is required for every renewal.
7. Final Tips
Renewing your Missouri vehicle tags doesn’t have to be stressful. Just follow these steps:
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Gather the correct documents early
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Choose the method that works best for you
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Don’t wait until the last day to avoid lines and penalties
Stay compliant, stay legal—and drive with peace of mind.
