Payment Methods Accepted at the DMV
Written by: Jacob S.
Published on:
If you're planning a visit to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for a driver's license renewal, vehicle registration, or another service, one important question may come to mind: Does the DMV accept cash? The answer varies depending on the state and the specific DMV office you visit. In this blog, we’ll explore whether the DMV accepts cash, alternative payment options, and how to prepare for your visit to avoid any surprises.
Key Takeaways
- While many DMV offices accept cash, some have moved away from cash transactions due to security, efficiency, and public health concerns. Checking your state’s DMV website or calling ahead can help you confirm accepted payment methods.
- If cash isn’t accepted, most DMVs allow payments via credit/debit cards, checks, money orders, and in some cases, digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay. Many DMV services can also be completed online.
- To ensure a smooth DMV visit, research your local DMV’s payment policies, consider alternative payment options, and explore online services when available. If you rely on cash, you can use a money order or prepaid debit card as a workaround.
Does the DMV Accept Cash?
The short answer is: it depends. Many DMV offices across the United States do accept cash, but there are exceptions. Some locations have moved away from cash transactions due to security concerns, administrative efficiency, or public health considerations. The best way to determine whether your local DMV accepts cash is to check its website or call ahead before your visit.
All the Payment Methods Accepted at the DMV
If your DMV does not accept cash, you’ll need an alternative payment method. Most DMVs offer multiple payment options, including:
- Credit and debit cards. Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover are commonly accepted.
- Checks. Some DMVs allow personal or cashier’s checks, though they may require additional verification.
- Money orders. A reliable alternative to cash, money orders can be purchased from banks, post offices, and retail stores.
- Online payments. Many DMV services, such as renewals and address changes, can be completed online using a credit or debit card.
- Mobile payment apps. Some states have started accepting payments through digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Payment Methods Accepted at the DMV by State
Below is a table summarizing the accepted payment methods for each state, based on the available information:
| State | Accepted Payment Methods |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover). |
| Alaska | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Arizona | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Arkansas | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover). |
| California | - In Person: Cash, ATM/debit cards, credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover), digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay), cashier’s checks, money orders. - Online: Bank account (checking or eCheck), credit cards, debit cards. Note: Service fees may apply for card transactions. (dmv.ca.gov) |
| Colorado | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Connecticut | - DMV Hub and Branch Offices: Cash, money orders (exact amount), personal checks, bank checks, credit cards (American Express, MasterCard, Visa, Discover), most debit cards with a MasterCard or Visa logo. - DMV Express Offices: Varies by location; generally includes money orders, personal checks, bank checks, credit cards, most debit cards with a MasterCard or Visa logo. Note: Some locations may charge an additional convenience fee. (portal.ct.gov) |
| Delaware | Cash, checks, money orders, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover). (dmv.de.gov) |
| Florida | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). The state office does warn that some local offices may vary in the exact cards they accept. |
| Georgia | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Hawaii | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Idaho | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Illinois | - In Person: Checks, cashier’s checks, money orders, credit cards. Note: The Secretary of State’s office will accept up to 10 renewals per check, cashier’s check, or money order by mail. Payments for more than 10 transactions will be returned. (ilsos.gov) |
| Indiana | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Iowa | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Kansas | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Kentucky | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Louisiana | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Maine | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Maryland | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Massachusetts | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Michigan | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Minnesota | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Mississippi | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Missouri | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Montana | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Nebraska | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Nevada | Cash, checks, money orders for the exact amount, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover). Debit cards are processed as credit. (dmv.nv.gov) |
| New Hampshire | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| New Jersey | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| New Mexico | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| New York | - In Person: Cash, credit cards (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, VISA), prepaid cards and debit cards not requiring a PIN, mobile payment services (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay), personal checks, money orders payable to "Commissioner of Motor Vehicles". - Online: Credit cards, debit cards not requiring a PIN. (dmv.ny.gov) |
| North Carolina | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| North Dakota | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Ohio | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Oklahoma | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Oregon | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Pennsylvania | - Driver License Centers: Debit or credit cards, checks, money orders (no cash). - Riverfront Office Center Customer Counter: Debit or credit cards, checks, money orders, cash. ([pa.gov](https://www.pa.gov/agencies |
| Rhode Island | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards can be used without a PIN online (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express) |
| Tennessee | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Texas | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Utah | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Vermont | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Virginia | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Washington | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| West Virginia | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Wisconsin | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
| Wyoming | Cash, check, money order, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). |
Why Some DMVs Do Not Accept Cash
Certain DMV locations have stopped accepting cash for several reasons:
- Security concerns. Carrying large amounts of cash can increase the risk of theft or robbery for both customers and employees. Eliminating cash transactions can improve safety at DMV offices.
- Administrative efficiency. Cash transactions require additional processing time, change counting, and secure handling. Electronic payments are often faster and easier to track.
- Health and hygiene. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses and government agencies encouraged contactless payments to minimize physical contact and reduce the spread of germs.
- State policy changes. Some states have adopted policies that encourage digital transactions for government services to streamline operations and reduce fraud.
How To Find Out If Your Local DMV Accepts Cash
To avoid any payment issues, follow these steps before heading to the DMV:
- Visit your official state DMV website. Most state DMV websites provide information on accepted payment methods for various services.
- Call the DMV office. Speaking with a representative can confirm whether cash payments are accepted.
- Check customer reviews. Online reviews from other visitors may provide insight into payment experiences at your local DMV.
- Use online services when possible. If your transaction can be completed online, you may be able to avoid a trip to the DMV altogether.
What To Do If Your DMV Doesn’t Accept Cash
If you rely on cash for payments and your DMV does not accept it, consider these options:
- Purchase a money order. Money orders are widely accepted and can be obtained from retail stores and banks.
- Open a prepaid debit card. Many retailers offer reloadable prepaid debit cards that can be used for DMV payments.
- Ask a friend or family member. If possible, have someone with a card or check make the payment on your behalf and reimburse them in cash.
While many DMV offices do accept cash, policies vary by state and location. Checking ahead of time can save you time and frustration. If your DMV does not accept cash, be prepared with alternative payment methods like credit cards, money orders, or prepaid debit cards. By planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free DMV visit.
Note: The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only. Contact your financial advisor regarding your specific financial situation.
