California Vehicle Registration Renewal
Everything you need to renew your California vehicle registration — fee, deadline, online options, and what happens if you miss the due date.
Renewal Quick Facts
How to Renew in California
California DMV mails renewal notices 30–90 days before your expiration date. Your renewal notice includes your current registration details and payment instructions.
Most gasoline-powered vehicles in California require a biennial smog check before renewal. Vehicles 8 model years old or newer are exempt. Diesel vehicles over 14,000 lbs GVWR are also subject to inspection.
California offers online registration renewal through the DMV website. Most vehicles can renew online if they have a valid smog certificate on file.
Payment methods vary by renewal channel. Online renewals typically accept credit/debit cards. Mail-in renewals require a check or money order.
Once renewed, display your new registration sticker on your license plate or windshield as directed by state law.
Late renewal adds a fee of 60–100% of registration fee. California charges a late fee of 60–100% of the base registration fee for renewals completed after the expiration date. The fee doubles after 1 year past expiration. Driving with an expired registration sticker is also subject to a separate traffic citation in most cases.
California sends renewal notices about 60 days before expiration. You can renew up to 75 days before the expiration date. If you miss the smog check deadline, you cannot renew online.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does vehicle registration renewal cost in California?
$60–$175+. CA renewal fee includes a $62 base registration fee plus vehicle license fee (0.65% of vehicle value) and district/county fees. Fees increase for higher-value vehicles.
Can I renew my vehicle registration online in California?
Yes. California offers online registration renewal through the DMV website. Most vehicles can renew online if they have a valid smog certificate on file.
Does California require a vehicle inspection to renew registration?
Yes. Most gasoline-powered vehicles in California require a biennial smog check before renewal. Vehicles 8 model years old or newer are exempt. Diesel vehicles over 14,000 lbs GVWR are also subject to inspection.
What is the late fee for expired registration in California?
60–100% of registration fee. California charges a late fee of 60–100% of the base registration fee for renewals completed after the expiration date. The fee doubles after 1 year past expiration.
How long is a California vehicle registration valid?
1 year. California vehicle registrations expire annually on the last day of the registration month, which is typically the month of your birthday.
What happens if I miss my registration renewal deadline in California?
A late fee of 60–100% of registration fee applies. California charges a late fee of 60–100% of the base registration fee for renewals completed after the expiration date. The fee doubles after 1 year past expiration. Additionally, driving with expired registration may result in a traffic citation and fine separate from the late renewal fee.