Vehicle registration is the official process of recording a vehicle with a government authority, linking it to its owner, and assigning a registration number.
Wisconsin law, under Chapter 341.04 of the Wisconsin Statutes, mandates that all motor vehicle owners register their vehicles with the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT).
Understanding state-specific regulations for vehicle registration is crucial, as each state may have different requirements, fees, and procedures. Compliance ensures that vehicles are legally allowed to operate on public roads and helps maintain accurate records for law enforcement and administrative purposes.
The DMV of the WisDOT manages the registration process, providing necessary forms and guidelines for residents. Required documents typically include the vehicle title, proof of identity, proof of insurance, and payment for registration fees.
How To Register a Car in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, vehicle registration is crucial for legal driving. Owners must submit necessary documents, get insurance, and either visit a DMV customer service center or use an online registration system.
Generally, the requirements include an MV1 Application, a valid ID, vehicle information, and paying all the applicable fees and taxes. After registration, individuals must attach the plates to the vehicle for driving. Note that the specific requirements may vary based on residency, purchase type, non-resident stay duration, and military status.
Registration of Vehicles For New Residents in Wisconsin
Once new residents in Wisconsin establish residency, they must register their vehicles at DMV customer service centers. Establishing residency in Wisconsin involves having a primary residence in the state and either paying state income taxes or registering to vote there.
New residents must provide the following for vehicle registration:
- Completed the MV1 Online Application or the Title/License Plate Application (Form MV1)
- Out-of-state title or Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO)
- Vehicle identification number (VIN) verification
- Proof of Wisconsin residency (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement)
- Valid driver's license or identification card
- Proof of insurance
- If applicable, proof of prior sales tax payment if the vehicle was owned for less than 90 days.
- Payment of registration fees and taxes
Once all required documents are gathered, new residents should schedule an office visit or pre-apply online to streamline the vehicle registration process.
In Wisconsin, most vehicle registration certificates have an annual validity period, requiring renewal every 12 months.
Wisconsin Vehicle Insurance Requirements
To register a vehicle in Wisconsin, owners must provide proof of liability insurance. The state mandates minimum coverage amounts of:
- $10,000 for property damage
- $25,000 for the injury or death of one person
- $50,000 for the injury or death of more than one person
These coverage requirements provide financial protection in case of accidents. Compliance with these insurance standards is essential for the registration process, helping to safeguard drivers, passengers, and property. Without valid proof of insurance, vehicle registration may not be completed in Wisconsin.
Registration of Vehicles Purchased from a Dealership in Wisconsin
To register a purchase vehicle from a Wisconsin car dealership, the dealer handles the registration process with the WI DMV on the buyer's behalf. This includes submitting all necessary documents and processing the application for title and plates within seven business days of the transaction, either electronically or by mail.
Upon purchase, the dealership issues temporary Wisconsin registration and plates, which must be displayed on the vehicle within two days to ensure legal operation. These temporary plates are valid until the permanent decals arrive by mail.
Required documents for registering a vehicle purchased from a dealer in Wisconsin include the following:
- Form MV1 or completed MV1 Online Application
- Vehicle title or MSO
- Sales tax form
- Proof of insurance
- VIN verification
- Odometer disclosure statement (if applicable)
- Payment of fees and applicable taxes
- Completed dealer's sale worksheet (if provided by the dealership)
WisDOT or DMV processing may be delayed if the application contains any issues or missing information. If needed, the local DMV will contact the buyer for additional information. Title and plates are mailed separately, and if they do not arrive within a month after the purchase, buyers should check WisDOT processing times.
Registration of Vehicles Purchased from Private Individuals
A vehicle purchased from private individuals in Wisconsin must be registered within 60 days of the purchase date. The registration process can be completed by mail or in person at a local DMV office.
To register the vehicle, the following documents must be submitted:
- Form MV1 or completed MV1 Online Application
- Vehicle title signed by the seller
- Bill of sale or sales tax form
- Proof of insurance
- VIN verification
- Odometer disclosure statement (if the vehicle is less than ten years old)
- Payment of fees and applicable taxes
For those who prefer to handle the process by mail, all required documents and payments should be sent to the address listed on the application form.
If the vehicle or driver record information is needed, the Vehicle/Driver Record Information Request (Form MV2896) can be used. This information can also be requested online through the Public Abstract Request System.
Registration of Vehicles for a Short-Term Non-Resident
Short-term non-residents who purchase a vehicle in Wisconsin can secure a 30-day temporary registration to drive the vehicle out of state. To obtain a temporary plate, non-residents must mail a copy of both sides of the vehicle title along with the completed Temporary License Plate Application (MV2505) and a $3 fee to the address on the form.
Alternatively, the application can be submitted in person at a service center, though an additional $5 counter service fee will apply.
After registration, the temporary plate must be taped inside the lower corner of the rear window on the driver's side or, if the window size does not allow it, on the rear passenger window on the driver's side.
Vehicle Registration for Military Members in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, the state DMV provides special considerations for military members regarding vehicle registration.
Wisconsin military residents stationed within the state can register their vehicles using the standard in-person or mail-in registration methods.
However, for those stationed outside of Wisconsin, the DMV offers additional options to facilitate the registration process. Military personnel can have someone register the vehicle in person on their behalf, providing copies of their military ID and duty orders, or they can register by mail with all the required documents and payments.
Furthermore, military members entering active duty may be eligible for a refund of any unused portion of their vehicle registration fees. This provision recognizes the potential disruptions in vehicle usage during active service.
The DMV also offers temporary plates for military personnel on leave for up to 30 days. These temporary plates can be obtained for any vehicle owned or designated by the military member without the need to register the vehicle with the Wisconsin DMV.
To apply for temporary plates, individuals can visit a DMV service center in person or submit their application by mail, providing proof of active military service, military furlough, and a completed Form MV1.
Wisconsin License Plates
After registration, state law requires that license plates issued by the WisDOT be attached to the vehicle, with one on the front and one on the rear. These plates must remain legible and unobstructed by any brackets.
Wisconsin also offers a range of specialty license plates that allow residents to showcase their interests, affiliations, or support for various causes. These specialty plates include options for military veterans, environmental enthusiasts, collegiate sports fans, and more.
In addition to the standard registration fees, specialty plates often require an additional fee, with a portion of the proceeds going toward the associated organization or cause.
Aside from specialized plates, WisDOT offers personalized or vanity license plates. These plates allow vehicle owners to customize their plates with a unique combination of letters and numbers, subject to availability and certain restrictions. These personalized plates can be a fun way for residents to express their individuality on the road.
How To Obtain Vanity License Plates in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, automobiles, motor homes, motorcycles, trucks, and farm trucks are eligible vehicles for vanity or personalized license plates.
To obtain a vanity plate, the process begins with checking the availability of the desired plate combination online. This step is crucial, as the state reserves the right to refuse or recall plates deemed offensive or misleading.
Once a suitable combination is identified, applicants must complete and sign the Personalized License Plate Information Application or Form MV2428.
On the application, applicants can choose between one and seven characters for their personalized plate, with motorcycles and farm trucks limited to a maximum of five characters due to their biennial registration cycle. Additionally, an annual fee of $15 is required for standard vehicles, while motorcycles and farm trucks incur a $30 fee for their two-year registration period.
With the completed application and payment, the submission must be mailed to the WisDOT Special Plates Unit in Madison. The mailing address is:
Wisconsin Department of Transportation
Special Plates Unit
P.O. Box 7911
Madison, WI 53707-7911.
After processing the application and payment, applicants can expect to receive their registration certificate within the standard timeframe. However, the personalized license plates may take four to six weeks to arrive.
Suppose a vehicle owner wishes to revert to standard plates after obtaining a vanity plate. In that case, they can submit a copy of their registration and the regular registration fee, provided the expiration date is within three months.
How Much Does Vehicle Registration Cost in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, the cost of vehicle registration varies based on the type of vehicle and its gross weight. The state follows a comprehensive fee chart that outlines the annual registration costs for different vehicle categories, including trucks, buses, trailers, motor homes, and farm vehicles.
For passenger vehicles and light trucks weighing 4,500 pounds or less, the annual registration fee is $100. As the gross vehicle weight increases, the fees escalate accordingly. For example, a vehicle weighing between 10,000 and 12,000 pounds has an annual registration fee ranging from $155 to $209.
Heavier commercial vehicles, such as trucks and truck tractors, have higher registration fees based on their gross weight. These fees can range from $118 for a 6,000-pound truck to $2,578 for an 80,000-pound truck tractor.
Farm vehicles and trailers used for agricultural purposes also have separate fee schedules based on their weight classifications, ranging from $25 for a lightweight farm trailer to $640 for an 80,000-pound farm truck.
In addition to the regular annual registration fees, certain vehicles may be subject to additional surcharges or taxes. For instance, vehicles with automobile registration or truck registration at 8,000 pounds or less may be subject to a wheel tax based on their location and surcharges for hybrid electric or electric vehicles.
Note that the fee chart provided is effective for registrations processed on or after October 1, 2019, and fees may be subject to change over time. Vehicle owners should consult the WisDOT's website or their local DMV office for the most up-to-date fee information.
How To Renew Vehicle Registration in Wisconsin?
Vehicle registration in Wisconsin can be renewed online, by mail, kiosk, or in person. The WisDOT sends a renewal notice before the registration expires, and a $10 late fee applies if it is late. To renew registration, drivers will need a Registration Renewal Notice (RRN) or their license plate number and ZIP code.
The standard annual registration renewal fee for a passenger car is $85, with additional surcharges for hybrid ($75) and electric vehicles ($100). Fees may vary based on the type of vehicle and any additional county wheel taxes.
If the vehicle is kept in certain counties, including Sheboygan, Washington, Ozaukee, Waukesha, Milwaukee, Racine, and Kenosha, an emissions test is required every two years.
Renew Online
To renew vehicle registration online in Wisconsin, visit the WisDOT Online Renewal Portal and enter the required information. Follow the prompts to complete the renewal form, confirming and updating vehicle details as necessary.
Once the form is complete, pay the renewal fee using the chosen payment method. Note that a convenience fee of $1.25 may apply for credit/debit card payments. Upon completion, drivers will receive an email confirmation as proof of current registration. The new registration sticker and certificate will be mailed within 7-10 business days.
If emissions tests are required for a vehicle, ensure they are up to date, especially if the driver resides in certain counties.
Renew by Mail
To renew vehicle registration by mail in Wisconsin, gather RRN or use the Substitute Renewal Notice/Non-Operation Statement (Form MV2016) if the original is lost. Prepare a check or money order payable to "Registration Fee Trust," and include the applicable fees.
Mail the completed form and payment to the following addresses:
Wisconsin Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 3279
Milwaukee, WI 53201-3279
Wisconsin Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 3290
Milwaukee, WI 53201-3290
Expect to receive a new license plate sticker and Certificate of Vehicle Registration within 10 business days after processing. Drivers may legally operate vehicles once the renewal fee is submitted, even before receiving the new sticker.
Renew by Self-Service Station
EZ-TAB kiosks are self-service machines available at over 300 locations across Wisconsin, such as grocery and convenience stores. They allow users to instantly renew vehicle registrations and operate similarly to ATMs.
The kiosks interact in real-time with the WisDOT, state, and local police to process renewals, print vehicle registration certificates, and dispense license plate year stickers. EZ-TAB kiosks are designed for convenience and are available seven days a week.
Locate a kiosk at a nearby grocery or convenience store. At the kiosk, scan the RRN barcode or manually enter the license plate number and ZIP code. Confirm the displayed vehicle information and make payment using a credit or debit card. Some kiosks accept cash.
The kiosk will instantly print the new registration certificate and license plate sticker. Keep the receipt for records and store the new registration certificate in the vehicle's glovebox.
Renew In-person
When renewing a vehicle registration in person in Wisconsin, visit a DMV customer service center or an authorized agent or title-registration service provider. Then, present the renewal notice and fee to receive a new license plate sticker and Certificate of Vehicle Registration.
Authorized agents can charge a counter-service fee of up to $10 for renewal transactions. Meanwhile, DMV centers charge a $3 counter service fee per renewal. Payment options include cash, checks, debit cards, and major credit cards.
Service hours and availability vary by location, with some offices offering Saturday morning hours. Customers with disabilities should inform staff for priority assistance.
How To Check if a Vehicle Is Currently Registered in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, vehicle owners have multiple options for checking whether their vehicle is currently registered. The primary method is through WisDOT's License Plate Search tool.
To utilize this online tool, individuals must have the vehicle's license plate number handy. If needed, they should also have the VIN available. On the WisDOT License Plate Search page, users should enter the license plate number using the numeral "0" instead of the letter "O" and avoid spaces or hyphens.
Upon submitting the search, the tool will display detailed information about the vehicle's registration status, including the expiration date, vehicle year, make, and registration number.
For those unable to access the online tool or who prefer alternative methods, the Wisconsin DMV offers the option to inquire about vehicle registration status by visiting a local DMV service center or contacting them via phone. DMV representatives can assist in verifying registration information and providing guidance on any necessary steps to maintain compliance.
Additionally, vehicle owners can check their registration status by examining their current Certificate of Vehicle Registration, which displays the expiration date and other relevant details.