How to Renew Motor Vehicle Registration in Wisconsin?
Vehicle registration renewal is required for all Wisconsin residents to maintain legal driving privileges. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) oversees the state's vehicle registration system, while county motor vehicle departments and authorized service providers handle registration services throughout the state.
Wisconsin Vehicle Registration Renewal Requirements
Essential Documentation and Requirements
Wisconsin vehicle owners must satisfy the following requirements when renewing their registration:
- Valid Vehicle Insurance: Proof of current liability insurance meeting Wisconsin minimum requirements
- Vehicle Identification: Registration renewal notice, Wisconsin license plate number, or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Government-Issued Photo ID: Current driver's license or state-issued identification card
- Emissions Inspection Certificate (if applicable): Required for vehicles registered in designated counties
- Wheel Tax Receipt: Verification of wheel tax payment if applicable in your municipality
Emissions Inspection Requirements
Vehicles registered in certain Wisconsin counties must pass an emissions inspection before registration renewal. The Wisconsin Vehicle Inspection Program (WIVIP) administers the vehicle emissions testing program.
Counties Requiring Emissions Testing:
- Kenosha County
- Milwaukee County
- Ozaukee County
- Racine County
- Sheboygan County
- Washington County
- Waukesha County
Emissions Testing Requirements:
- Vehicles model year 2007 and newer: Required every two years beginning with the fourth model year
- Vehicles model year 1996-2006: Required every two years
- Testing must be completed before registration expiration
- Inspections valid for 90 days for registration renewal purposes
- On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) testing for 1996 and newer vehicles
Emissions Testing Exemptions:
- Vehicles less than four model years old (counting current year as model year one)
- Electric vehicles and vehicles powered solely by natural gas
- Motorcycles
- Diesel-powered vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating exceeding 8,500 pounds
- Vehicles model year 1995 and older
- Vehicles registered outside the seven-county emissions testing area
- Farm trucks with special registration
Emissions Inspection Fees:
The emissions inspection fee is $16.00 for most passenger vehicles. Re-inspections within 90 days of a failed test are provided at no additional charge if repairs were performed at the original inspection station.
Find authorized inspection stations using the Wisconsin Emissions Testing Station Locator.
Renewal Timeline and Grace Period
- Early Renewal: Begin renewal process up to 90 days before expiration
- Grace Period: Wisconsin law does not provide a grace period after expiration; operating a vehicle with expired registration may result in citation
How Much Is Car Registration Renewal in Wisconsin in 2025
2025 Wisconsin Vehicle Registration Fee Schedule
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation establishes vehicle registration fees based on vehicle type and gross vehicle weight. Wisconsin implements two different fee schedules: one for registrations effective before October 1, 2025, and another for registrations effective on or after October 1, 2025.
Important Note: The following fee schedules show annual registration fees. Wisconsin also offers biennial (two-year) registration periods for most vehicles at double the annual fee amount.
Passenger Vehicle Registration Fees
| Vehicle Type | Annual Registration Fee | Biennial Registration Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Automobile | $85.00 | $170.00 |
| Autocycle | $45.00 | $90.00 |
| Motorcycle | $23.00 | $46.00 |
| Moped | $23.00 | $46.00 |
| Special Design Vehicle | $5.00 | $10.00 |
| Recreational Vehicle Trailer | $15.00 | $30.00 |
Motor Home Registration Fees
Motor home registration fees are based on gross vehicle weight:
| Gross Vehicle Weight | Annual Registration Fee | Biennial Registration Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 5,000 lbs. | $48.50 | $97.00 |
| 5,001 - 8,000 lbs. | $55.00 | $110.00 |
| 8,001 - 12,000 lbs. | $67.50 | $135.00 |
| 12,001 - 16,000 lbs. | $80.50 | $161.00 |
| 16,001 - 20,000 lbs. | $93.50 | $187.00 |
| 20,001 - 26,000 lbs. | $106.50 | $213.00 |
| Over 26,000 lbs. | $119.50 | $239.00 |
Truck and Commercial Vehicle Registration Fees (Before October 1, 2025)
For registrations effective before October 1, 2025:
| Gross Vehicle Weight | Truck, Bus, Road Tractor, Dual Purpose Vehicle | Trailer | Truck Tractor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 4,500 lbs. | $100.00 | $50.00 | — |
| 4,501 - 6,000 lbs. | $100.00 | $50.00 | $118.00 |
| 6,001 - 8,000 lbs. | $106.00 | $53.00 | $124.00 |
| 8,001 - 10,000 lbs. | $155.00 | $77.50 | $173.00 |
| 10,001 - 12,000 lbs. | $209.00 | $104.50 | $227.00 |
| 12,001 - 16,000 lbs. | $283.00 | $283.00 | $301.00 |
| 16,001 - 20,000 lbs. | $356.00 | $356.00 | $374.00 |
| 20,001 - 26,000 lbs. | $475.00 | $475.00 | $493.00 |
| 26,001 - 32,000 lbs. | $609.00 | $609.00 | $627.00 |
| 32,001 - 38,000 lbs. | $772.00 | $772.00 | $790.00 |
| 38,001 - 44,000 lbs. | $921.00 | $921.00 | $939.00 |
| 44,001 - 50,000 lbs. | $1,063.00 | $1,063.00 | $1,081.00 |
| 50,001 - 54,000 lbs. | $1,135.00 | $1,135.00 | $1,153.00 |
| 54,001 - 56,000 lbs. | $1,209.00 | $1,209.00 | $1,227.00 |
| 56,001 - 62,000 lbs. | $1,367.00 | $1,367.00 | $1,385.00 |
| 62,001 - 68,000 lbs. | $1,543.00 | $1,543.00 | $1,561.00 |
| 68,001 - 73,000 lbs. | $1,755.00 | $1,755.00 | $1,773.00 |
| 73,001 - 76,000 lbs. | $2,081.00 | $2,081.00 | $2,099.00 |
| 76,001 - 80,000 lbs. | $2,560.00 | $2,560.00 | $2,578.00 |
Truck and Commercial Vehicle Registration Fees (On or After October 1, 2025)
For registrations effective on or after October 1, 2025:
| Gross Vehicle Weight | Truck, Bus, Road Tractor, Dual Purpose Vehicle | Trailer | Truck Tractor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 4,500 lbs. | $100.00 | $50.00 | — |
| 4,501 - 6,000 lbs. | $100.00 | $50.00 | $118.00 |
| 6,001 - 8,000 lbs. | $116.60 | $58.30 | $134.60 |
| 8,001 - 10,000 lbs. | $170.50 | $85.25 | $188.50 |
| 10,001 - 12,000 lbs. | $229.90 | $114.95 | $247.90 |
| 12,001 - 16,000 lbs. | $311.30 | $311.30 | $329.30 |
| 16,001 - 20,000 lbs. | $391.60 | $391.60 | $409.60 |
| 20,001 - 26,000 lbs. | $522.50 | $522.50 | $540.50 |
| 26,001 - 32,000 lbs. | $669.90 | $669.90 | $687.90 |
| 32,001 - 38,000 lbs. | $849.20 | $849.20 | $867.20 |
| 38,001 - 44,000 lbs. | $1,013.10 | $1,013.10 | $1,031.10 |
| 44,001 - 50,000 lbs. | $1,169.30 | $1,169.30 | $1,187.30 |
| 50,001 - 54,000 lbs. | $1,248.50 | $1,248.50 | $1,266.50 |
| 54,001 - 56,000 lbs. | $1,329.90 | $1,329.90 | $1,347.90 |
| 56,001 - 62,000 lbs. | $1,503.70 | $1,503.70 | $1,521.70 |
| 62,001 - 68,000 lbs. | $1,697.30 | $1,697.30 | $1,715.30 |
| 68,001 - 73,000 lbs. | $1,930.50 | $1,930.50 | $1,948.50 |
| 73,001 - 76,000 lbs. | $2,289.10 | $2,289.10 | $2,307.10 |
| 76,001 - 80,000 lbs. | $2,816.00 | $2,816.00 | $2,834.00 |
Important Notes:
- Motor truck and trailer fees are based on the gross weight of the vehicle, including load
- Truck tractor fees are based on the gross weight of the combined unit (tractor, semi-trailer, and load)
- Motor home and bus fees are based on the gross weight of the vehicle, including property and passengers
Farm Vehicle Registration Fees (Before October 1, 2025)
For registrations effective before October 1, 2025:
| Gross Vehicle Weight | Farm Truck | Farm Trailer | Farm Truck Tractor | Special "UX" |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 4,500 lbs. | $44.00 | $25.00 | — | $18.00 |
| 4,501 - 6,000 lbs. | $54.50 | $25.00 | $43.00 | $18.00 |
| 6,001 - 8,000 lbs. | $61.00 | $26.50 | $44.50 | $18.00 |
| 8,001 - 10,000 lbs. | $78.00 | $38.75 | $56.75 | $18.00 |
| 10,001 - 12,000 lbs. | $95.50 | $52.25 | $70.25 | $20.90 |
| 12,001 - 14,000 lbs. (Trailers) | — | $61.50 | — | $24.50 |
| 14,001 - 16,000 lbs. | $127.50 | $70.75 | $88.75 | $28.30 |
| 16,001 - 20,000 lbs. | $160.00 | $89.00 | $107.00 | $35.60 |
| 20,001 - 26,000 lbs. | $208.50 | $118.75 | $136.75 | $47.50 |
| 26,001 - 32,000 lbs. | $263.00 | $152.25 | $170.25 | $60.90 |
| 32,001 - 38,000 lbs. | $327.50 | $193.00 | $211.00 | $77.20 |
| 38,001 - 44,000 lbs. | $389.00 | $230.25 | $248.25 | $92.10 |
| 44,001 - 50,000 lbs. | $443.50 | $265.75 | $283.75 | $106.30 |
| 50,001 - 54,000 lbs. | $474.00 | $283.75 | $301.75 | $113.50 |
| 54,001 - 56,000 lbs. | $505.00 | $302.25 | $320.25 | $120.90 |
| 56,001 - 62,000 lbs. | $569.50 | $341.75 | $359.75 | $136.70 |
| 62,001 - 68,000 lbs. | $640.50 | $385.75 | $403.75 | $154.30 |
| 68,001 - 73,000 lbs. | $727.50 | $438.75 | $456.75 | $175.50 |
| 73,001 - 76,000 lbs. | $856.50 | $520.25 | $538.25 | $208.10 |
| 76,001 - 80,000 lbs. | $1,050.00 | $640.00 | $658.00 | $256.00 |
Note: 12,000 lbs. gross weight farm trucks are registered biennially with an annual fee of $45.00 (total biennial fee of $90.00).
Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Surcharges
In addition to regular annual registration fees, Wisconsin imposes surcharges on electric and hybrid vehicles to offset reduced fuel tax revenue:
| Vehicle Type | Annual Surcharge | Biennial Surcharge |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Vehicles (Battery Electric) | $175.00 | $350.00 |
| Hybrid Electric Vehicles (Plug-In and Standard) | $75.00 | $150.00 |
Applicability: Electric and hybrid vehicle surcharges apply to vehicles with automobile registration or truck registration at 8,000 lbs. or less (except dual purpose farm registration).
For complete information regarding electric and hybrid vehicle fees, visit the Wisconsin DOT Fuel Fee Information page.
Local Wheel Tax
In addition to state registration fees, vehicles with automobile registration or truck registration at 8,000 lbs. or less (except dual purpose farm registration) may be subject to local wheel taxes based on where the vehicle is customarily kept.
Wheel tax amounts vary by municipality and typically range from $20.00 to $60.00 annually. For information regarding wheel tax requirements in your area, visit the Wisconsin DOT Wheel Tax Information page or contact your local county treasurer.
How To Renew Vehicle Registration Online in Wisconsin
Online Renewal Platforms
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation offers online renewal services through the official state portal:
MyDMV Online Services
The MyDMV portal provides secure online renewal services for eligible Wisconsin vehicle registrations. The system integrates with the state's emissions testing database and insurance verification system.
Eligibility for Online Renewal:
- Current Wisconsin vehicle registration on file
- No changes to vehicle ownership, address, or lienholder information
- Current emissions inspection certificate on file if required (completed within past 90 days)
- Current insurance coverage meeting Wisconsin requirements
- No holds, suspensions, or restrictions on registration
- Registration not expired for more than 90 days
- Vehicle not subject to special registration requirements
- No outstanding parking citations or registration violations
Online Renewal Process
Step 1: Verify Eligibility
- Confirm current emissions inspection is on file if required for your county
- Verify current insurance coverage is active and reported to WisDOT
- Ensure no outstanding parking tickets or registration holds
- Confirm mailing address is current and accurate
- Verify registration is not expired for more than 90 days
Step 2: Gather Required Information
- Wisconsin license plate number
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) - last five digits
- Date of birth of registered owner
- Payment method (credit card, debit card, or electronic check)
- Email address for electronic confirmation
- Renewal notice code (if available)
Step 3: Complete Application
- Access the Wisconsin MyDMV portal
- Select "Renew Vehicle Registration" option
- Enter vehicle license plate number
- Provide owner date of birth and last five digits of VIN for verification
- Verify vehicle details and registration information displayed
- Confirm current emissions inspection status (if applicable)
- Verify wheel tax amount (if applicable)
- Review all applicable fees and charges
- Provide payment information and authorize transaction
- Verify email address for confirmation receipt
Step 4: Receive Confirmation
- Print or save confirmation receipt for your records
- Receipt serves as temporary registration proof for 30 days
- New registration card will be mailed to the address on file within 7-10 business days
- Registration sticker will be mailed separately within 7-10 business days
- Electronic confirmation email provides registration details and effective dates
- Registration renewal is effective immediately upon payment processing
Alternative Renewal Methods
Mail-In Renewal
Submit the following documents to the county motor vehicle department listed on your renewal notice:
- Completed renewal notice with signature
- Payment for all applicable fees (check or money order payable to county motor vehicle department)
Mailing Addresses:
For automobile (AUT), light truck (LTK), and most other plate types:
Wisconsin Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 3279
Milwaukee, WI 53201-3279
For truck (HTK), tractor (TOR), insert trailer (TRL), motor home (MTM), and bus (BUS) plate types:
Wisconsin Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 3279
Milwaukee, WI 53201-3290
Payment Instructions:
- Make checks or money orders payable to: Registration Fee Trust
- A late fee applies to auto, light truck, motorcycle, and moped renewals received after the expiration date
Processing Time: You will receive your new plate sticker and Certificate of Vehicle Registration within 10 business days.
In-Person Renewal at County Motor Vehicle Departments
Visit your local county motor vehicle department with the following documentation:
- Registration renewal notice (if available)
- Government-issued photo identification (Wisconsin driver's license or state ID card)
- Current proof of insurance or insurance policy information
- Current emissions inspection certificate (if required and not already on file)
- Payment for renewal fees (cash, check, credit card, or debit card accepted at most locations)
Contact Information and Resources
Wisconsin Department of Transportation - Division of Motor Vehicles
4802 Sheboygan Avenue, Room 201, Madison, WI 53707
Phone: (608) 266-2353 or 1-800-924-3570 (in-state)
Official Website: Wisconsin DMV
