Minnesota DMV: The Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) oversees vehicle registration, titling, and driver licensing, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. They issue standard, specialty, and personalized license plates.

For assistance, contact the DVS at 445 Minnesota Street, Suite 190 Town Square Building, Saint Paul, MN 55101-5190. Driver Services: (651) 297-3298, Vehicle Services: (651) 297-2126, TTYL: (651) 282-6555. The DVS also offers extensive online resources for various transactions.
Minnesota License Plate Design and Format: The Minnesota DPS issues a variety of license plates, including standard, specialty, and personalized plates. Standard plates typically feature the state’s name and designs reflecting Minnesota’s culture, history, or natural landscapes. Standard automobile, commercial, and trailer plates measure 12″ x 6″, while motorcycle plates are 7″ x 4″. All plates require annual renewal, indicated by updated registration decals.

Display Requirements: Minnesota law mandates that most vehicles, including passenger cars, must display both front and rear license plates. Motorcycles and trailers, however, require only a rear plate. This regulation ensures that vehicles are easily identifiable and traceable by law enforcement.


Vehicle Registration and Renewal: To register a vehicle in Minnesota, visit a local DPS office with the necessary documents, including proof of insurance, vehicle title, and payment for registration fees. License plates are issued along with a registration card and expiration stickers. To renew, check your expiration date, ensure your address is current with the DPS, and renew online, by mail, or in person. Renewal involves paying the applicable fees and receiving updated registration documents and decals.

Types of License Plates: Minnesota offers several types of license plates:

• Standard Plates: Basic design for general use.
• Specialty Plates: Plates representing various organizations and causes.
• Personalized Plates: Customizable with unique characters and messages. Each type can have specific dimensions and fees associated with their issuance and renewal.

Transferring a Minnesota License Plate: To transfer a license plate to another vehicle, ensure both vehicles are registered in Minnesota and that the plate is current. Remove the plate from the original vehicle, complete the transfer application form, pay the transfer fee, and submit the application to the DPS or a Deputy Registrar’s Office. Upon processing, you will receive a new registration for the vehicle with the transferred plate.

Replacing Minnesota License Plates: If your license plates are lost, stolen, or damaged, report the incident to local law enforcement and obtain a police report. Then, submit an Application for Duplicate Plates/Validation Stickers (Form PS2010) at a Minnesota DPS office with the police report, identification, and the required fee to receive replacement plates.