How long can you drive with expired tags in Texas? What the law says

According to state law, driving with an expired registration beyond the grace period constitutes a traffic violation under Texas Transportation Code Section 502.407. Offenders may face fines of up to $200. Additionally, county tax assessor-collectors can impose a late fee when the registration is renewed. Law enforcement officers also have discretion to tow vehicles with significantly expired registrations or when other violations are present.

See what can happen if you continue driving with expired tags.

How long can I drive with expired registration in Texas?

According to the Travis County Tax Office, state law gives drivers a five-day grace period after the registration expiration date during which law enforcement generally will not cite a vehicle solely for expired registration.

Renew your registration at Texas.gov or through the Texas by Texas (TxT) online system, and you will receive a receipt that allows you to drive legally for 31 days until your sticker arrives in the mail. Be sure to carry the receipt in your vehicle in case you get pulled over by law enforcement.

My registration expired. How do I renew right away?

If you have your current registration renewal notice from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) and, where required, a vehicle inspection or emissions report, you can receive your sticker on the spot at your county tax assessor-collector’s office or at participating retailers such as grocery stores or AAA offices.

I got a ticket for expired tags. What should I do?

Under Texas law (Transportation Code Section 502.407), you commit an offense if you operate a vehicle on a public highway with an expired license plate (meaning the sticker from the previous year) and haven’t updated it with the current registration insignia, and it’s been more than five working days since your registration expired.

If you’re cited, renew your registration immediately at your local tax assessor-collector’s office. You will likely have to pay a 20% penalty in addition to the regular registration fees. Be sure to bring proof of current insurance that meets Texas minimums and any required inspection or emissions documentation.

Can I get the ticket for expired tags dismissed?

Yes. In many cases, a court can offer a compliance dismissal if you fix the violation before your court date, pay required fees, and present proof to the court. This option is typically available for minor infractions such as expired vehicle registration.

To qualify for a compliance dismissal:

• Renew your registration and pay the 20% penalty at the time of renewal.
• Pay any additional administrative fee required by the court (often around $20).
• Submit proof of renewed registration and penalty payment to the court by your scheduled appearance date, either in person or by mail.

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