No, you generally cannot get permanent car tags for a standard passenger vehicle in the United States. Vehicle registration must be renewed periodically, typically every one or two years, to ensure the state has current information on the vehicle's ownership, insurance status, and that it meets safety and emissions standards. However, some states offer long-term or "permanent" registration options for specific vehicle types, such as antique or classic cars that are driven infrequently.
The primary reason for requiring registration renewal is revenue generation for state infrastructure projects and to maintain an accurate database of vehicles on the road. The process involves paying a fee and, in some areas, passing a safety or emissions inspection. While the idea of a one-time, permanent tag is appealing for its convenience, it is not the standard practice.
For certain classes of vehicles, exceptions do exist. The table below outlines examples of states with long-term registration options for eligible vehicles.
| State | Vehicle Type Eligible for Long-Term Registration | Registration Duration | Key Requirements / Notes |
|---|
| Arizona | Classic/Historic Vehicles | Permanent (one-time fee) | Vehicle must be 25+ years old and used for exhibitions, parades, etc. |
| Montana | Vehicles 11+ years old | Permanent | A one-time registration fee is available, often associated with LLC registrations. |
| Texas | Trailers | Permanent | Applies to light trailers (under 4,500 lbs) and semi-trailers. |
| Colorado | Passenger Vehicles | 5 or 10-year options | Multi-year registration is available for an additional fee. |
| Virginia | Antique Vehicles | Permanent | Must be 25+ years old and used primarily for car shows, club activities, etc. |
For your everyday car, you will need to plan for renewal. The best way to manage this is to sign up for electronic reminders from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or mark your calendar based on your registration's expiration date.
