In all states in the United States, it is illegal to drive with expired car registration tags. In some states, you can receive a fine for expired registration tags even if you are not currently driving the car.
It is your responsibility to pay your tags on time to avoid being pulled over and paying a fine. But, if you fail to do so, here's a bit of what you can expect.
Can I Get Pulled Over for Expired or Missing Tags?
Yes, you can get pulled over for expired, missing, or non-visible registration tags on your car or motorcycle. This is considered a non-moving violation and can carry fines.
If a police offer notices you driving with expired or missing license plate tags, they will pull you over and give you a fine. But they can also fine you even if you are not driving if they noticed your expired tags in a parking lot or on the street, for example.
Remember that your registration tags go on your license plate. Do not leave them in your glove compartment or your wallet, or you risk getting pulled over and getting a fine. It's a good idea to leave yourself a note in your calendar to check your car registration every year, especially if your state does not provide automated renewal through its moto vehicle department.
What Happens if I Get Pulled Over for Expired or Missing Tags?
If you get pulled over for expired or missing tags, the most likely consequence is receiving a fine. The fine amount depends on where you live. You may or may not have to go to court to receive your fine.
Some states may require you to show up in court to pay the fine. At this court appearance, you should come with proof that you have corrected the issue, namely, paid for the renewal tags on your license plate. If you do not appear in court, there may be further fines and fees applied to your record.
If you continue to drive without proper license plate tags despite fines and other warnings, you may be arrested and do some time in jail.
What if My Car Gets Impounded for Expired or Missing Tags?
If your tags are expired by six months or more, your car may get impounded. The cost of impound will be added to the fine and the late renewal fee, significantly increasing what you have to pay to drive legally again. The process to get your car out of impound differs from state to state and even city to city.
Impounded cars are often not available for release until:
All fines are paid relating to impound
The reason for ticketing or impoundment is corrected
DMV records are clear
What Is the Process for Renewing My License Plate Tags?
The process for renewing your license plate tags varies state by state. Some states send you documentation for renewing your tags by mail or by visiting your local licensing office. Some states may have automated systems where you can register for an automatic withdrawal every year out of your bank account. What you usually need are your title number, your plate number, and a credit card.
For more information on each state's process to review your license plate tags, see the table below.
Need a Refresher? Try Adult Driver's Ed!
Sometimes it is difficult to remember things we learned as a teenager when it comes to driver's education, including your responsibility to keep your tags up to date. IDriveSafely's adult driver's ed is a good investment if you need a refresher on driving basics and advanced defensive driving techniques.