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Late fee for license plate renewal

License plates renewed after their expiration date must pay a $10 late fee. Here are a variety of ways to help you renew on time:

• By mail - the least expensive way to renew license plates is by mailing in the renewal notice received in the mail. The only cost is for a postage stamp.
• Online - If you choose to renew online.  Your credit or debit card will be charged an additional $1 service charge.
• Third party agencies and businesses - DMV has contracted with third party agencies and businesses to provide license plate renewal services for walk-in customers. DMV agents are located in several communities around Wisconsin and some offer evening and weekend hours. These agents may charge a maximum service fee of $10 for a renewal transaction.
• DMV customer service centers - Renewing at 5-day DMV service centers requires a $3 service fee. All of these costs would be in addition to the regular license plate renewal fee specified in the renewal notice all vehicle owners receive. DMV customer service centers accept cash or checks only. Credit or debit cards are accepted for online transactions.

The most expensive way to renew plates is to renew late. Those whose renewal payment is received after the expiration date of their plate must pay a $10 late fee in addition to all other costs. Motorists are reminded of this late fee requirement on the renewal notice. The date of expiration appears on the vehicle's Certificate of Registration and on the renewal notice. Vehicles registered over 8,000 pounds gross weight are exempt from late fees.

Review your renewal notice carefully. Not all license plates expire on the last day of the month. License plates for newly registered autos will expire on the day of the month one year following the initial registration.

Auto license plates can now expire on any day of the month, not just the last day of the month. For example, an auto first registered on December 16 expires on December 15 in future years, not the end of the month.

If you have questions:

• E-mail: bur-veh-services.dmv@dot.state.wi.us
  Because WisDOT may have to research your question before replying, please allow 4 business days for an e-mail response. Please do not send a second e-mail. 
• Call: (608) 266-1466

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Questions about the content of this page:
Bureau of Vehicle Services, bur-veh-services.dmv@dot.state.wi.us
Last modified: March 9, 2009