Alabama Car Registration Renewal Cost
Renewing a typical car's registration in Alabama costs about $27.25 per year in state fees (a 3-year-old gas car). Use the calculator for your own car; every fee comes from Alabama's official schedule (last reviewed October 7, 2026).
| Licensing official fee | $3 |
|---|---|
| License plate + issuance | $24.25 |
| Renewal total | $27.25 |
Estimate of state renewal fees only. Your renewal notice shows the exact amount, including local fees.
What you pay when you renew in Alabama
A renewal repeats only the yearly registration charges. The title fee, any transfer fee, new plates and the sales tax are paid once, when you buy or first register the car.
| Licensing official fee | $3 |
|---|---|
| License plate + issuance | $24.25 |
| Renewal total | $27.25 |
- Manufacturer rebates do not reduce Alabama tax.
- County ad valorem (property) tax is extra and varies.
How Alabama sets the registration fee
- Registration = plate + issuance fee + EV/PHEV/LSEV fee + county ad valorem
- Total = tax + title + registration + doc fee
How to renew in Alabama
Renew online, by mail or in person with the Alabama motor vehicle agency. The renewal notice shows the exact amount, including any county or city fees, and what you need (usually proof of insurance). Official source: www.revenue.alabama.gov.
Buying a car in Alabama instead?
The first registration also includes the title and sales tax: see the Alabama car sales tax calculator and the Alabama title transfer cost.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to renew a car registration in Alabama?
About $27.25 per year in state fees for a typical 3-year-old gas car (Licensing official fee $3, License plate + issuance $24.25). Manufacturer rebates do not reduce Alabama tax. County ad valorem (property) tax is extra and varies.
How often do you renew your registration in Alabama?
Every year for a standard passenger car.
Do electric cars pay more to renew in Alabama?
Yes, about $203 more at each renewal, a fee that replaces the gas tax EV owners don't pay.