Wisconsin License Plate Renewal
What Is License Plate Renewal in Wisconsin?
License plate renewal in Wisconsin is renewing a vehicle's registration and obtaining new license plate stickers to display on the plates. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) requires vehicle owners to renew their license plates annually or biannually, depending on the vehicle type and the chosen registration option. Renewing your license plates ensures your vehicle is legally registered and allows you to continue driving on Wisconsin roads.
Do I Need To Renew My Wisconsin License Plate?
Yes, if you own a vehicle in Wisconsin, you must renew your license plates regularly to maintain a valid registration. Failing to renew your license plates can result in penalties, fines, and even the suspension of your vehicle registration. It is essential to stay up-to-date with your license plate renewal to avoid any legal issues and ensure that you can legally operate your vehicle on Wisconsin roads.
When Do You Need To Renew Your Wisconsin License Plate?
In Wisconsin, the timeline for renewing your license plates depends on your vehicle type and your chosen registration option.
- Standard passenger vehicles: Renew annually, with expiration dates based on your date of birth.
- Motorcycles: Renew biannually (every two years), with expiration dates based on your date of birth.
- Commercial vehicles: Renew annually, with expiration dates based on the vehicle's registration date.
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation will send you a renewal notice 45-60 days before your registration expires. This notice will include information on how to renew your license plates and the fees associated with the renewal process.
How To Renew Your License Plate in Wisconsin
To renew your license plate in Wisconsin, follow these steps:
- Receive your renewal notice from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT).
- Choose your preferred renewal method:
- Online renewal through the WisDOT website
- Mail in renewal using the form provided with your renewal notice
- In-person renewal at a DMV service center or an authorized third-party agent
- Gather the required documents:
- Your renewal notice
- Proof of insurance
- Payment for the renewal fees
- Submit your renewal application and payment using your chosen method.
- Receive your new license plate stickers and registration card.
Where To Renew a License Plate in Wisconsin?
You can renew your license plate in Wisconsin through the following methods:
- Online: Visit the Wisconsin Department of Transportation website to renew your plates online.
- By mail: Send your renewal notice, payment, and required documents to the address provided on your renewal notice.
- In-person: Visit a DMV service center or an authorized third-party agent. Find a location near you using the DMV Service Center Locator.
Can I Renew a Wisconsin License Plate Online?
Yes, you can renew your Wisconsin license plate online through the Wisconsin Department of Transportation website. To be eligible for online renewal, you must have received a renewal notice with a PIN and have your vehicle information up-to-date in the WisDOT system. Online renewal is a convenient and efficient way to renew your license plates without visiting a DMV service center in person.
What Do You Need To Renew Your License Plate in Wisconsin?
To renew your license plate in Wisconsin, you will need the following:
- Your renewal notice includes your vehicle information and renewal PIN.
- Proof of insurance demonstrates that your vehicle's minimum coverage requires liability insurance.
- Renewal fee payments can be made by credit card, debit card, or electronic check.
If you renew your plates in person or by mail, you may also need to provide additional documentation, such as your vehicle title or registration card. The renewal notice you receive from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation will specify the exact documents required for your particular situation.
Do You Need Insurance To Renew Plates in Wisconsin?
Yes, you must provide proof of insurance to renew your license plates in Wisconsin. Wisconsin law requires all vehicle owners to carry minimum liability insurance coverage, which includes:
- $25,000 for bodily injury or death of one person
- $50,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more persons
- $10,000 for property damage
You must provide your insurance company's name and policy number when renewing your license plates. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation may verify this information with your insurance provider to ensure your coverage meets the state's minimum requirements. Failure to maintain proper insurance coverage can result in penalties and the suspension of your vehicle registration.
How Much Is License Plate Renewal in Wisconsin?
The cost of license plate renewal in Wisconsin varies depending on the type of vehicle and the registration period:
- Standard passenger vehicles: $85 for annual registration
- Motorcycles: $23 for biannual registration (every two years)
- Hybrid cars: $75 for annual registration
- Electric vehicles: $100 for yearly registration
In addition to the registration fees, there may be other fees, such as a local wheel tax or a processing fee for online or mail-in renewals. The exact cost of your license plate renewal will be listed on your renewal notice, which you will receive from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation before your registration expires.
Is There a Senior Discount for Wisconsin License Plate Renewal?
No, Wisconsin does not offer a senior license plate renewal discount. Regardless of age, all vehicle owners must pay the standard registration fees based on their vehicle type and registration period.