Tags Express

Reinstate Suspended Registration

Clear holds, pay fees, and get your tags back—same day, no DMV lines.

Book Your Appointment

Why Drivers Trust Tags Express

Rapid Reinstatement

We handle suspended registrations same-day, liaising directly with the DMV.

Penalty Reduction

Our experts review your case to minimize late fees and penalties.

Complete Compliance

Insurance, smog, and paperwork—all verified before you leave.

No DMV Headaches

Walk-in service at our San Diego location—skip the long lines.

What & When You Need Reinstatement

If your tags expired, insurance lapsed, or fees went unpaid, the DMV suspends your registration—making it illegal to drive until reinstated.

  • Your registration expired and entered suspension.
  • Your insurance wasn’t on file or lapsed.
  • Outstanding fees or citations remain unpaid.
  • You need to sell or legally drive your vehicle again.

How to Reinstate Your Registration

  1. Gather Documents: Plate number, VIN, proof of insurance, and any suspension notices.
  2. Resolve Holds: Pay any past-due fees or penalties.
  3. Submit Forms: We file REG 5085, SR-1 and any additional paperwork for you.
  4. Receive Clearance: Get printed proof and new tags on the spot—usually within 60 minutes.

Required DMV Forms

REG 5085 – Statement of Facts

Download PDF

SR-1 – Evidence of Insurance

Download PDF

REG 176 – Request for DMV Records

Download PDF

REG 101 – Proof of Ownership

Download PDF

Reinstatement Fees

1–30 Days Late

Base fee + up to $10 penalty

31–60 Days Late

Base fee + $20 penalty

61 Days – 1 Year

Base fee + $50 penalty

Over 1 Year

Base fee + $100+ penalty

In hardship cases, we can often reduce or waive penalties—just ask!

Cities We Serve Within 50 Miles of San Diego

San DiegoChula VistaEl CajonLa MesaSanteeNational CityLemon GroveSpring ValleyLakesideBonitaImperial BeachPowayCoronadoCarlsbadEncinitasEscondidoVistaSan MarcosDel MarSolana BeachRancho Santa FeAlpine

Request a Free Reinstatement Quote

Fill out the form below and we’ll send you a full quote—including all fees, penalties, and requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes a registration suspension?

Expired tags, insurance lapse, or unpaid fees can all trigger a suspension.

How long does reinstatement take?

Once all documents and payments are in, most cases finish within an hour.

Can you reduce my penalties?

We can review hardship cases and help you request fee waivers when possible.

Do I need an appointment?

Walk-ins are welcome, but booking ahead gives you priority service.