Move necessary due to issues with current option

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Secretary of State today announced that customers can still renew their license plate tabs or watercraft registration online using an alternative Online Renewal System.

A link to this temporary option is available by clicking on “Online Services” at michigan.gov/sos.

“Even though they’ve had 10 years to complete a re-designed SOS computer system, the vendor failed to deliver so we had to terminate the contract,” Johnson said. “We even had to sue to get the vendor to show up to work and give the state access to our own computer code.

“The time spent in court fighting the vendor to return to work and give the state the computer code delayed vital work on ExpressSOS.com and significantly affected our customers’ ability to use the online services. We’re committed to finding a permanent solution that meets our customers’ needs. In the meantime, we want to make sure customers know we have a temporary option.”

If eligible, customers can still renew or replace their driver’s license or ID card, process address changes or request a duplicate title or registration through ExpressSOS.com. With the Print ’N Go option, customers can print a proof-of-purchase receipt and drive while they wait for their tabs or license to come in the mail.

While the department continues to finalize some of the processes delayed by issues with the vendor, customers who are having difficulty renewing their vehicle tabs or watercraft registration on ExpressSOS.com are encouraged to try the Online Renewal Service. Customers should be sure to exit ExpressSOS.com before re-trying through the Online Renewal Service.

The Secretary of State offers other ways to do business more conveniently with the department, including Self-Service Stations and MI-TIME Line, which allows customers to schedule an appointment or get in line online at 18 of the busiest offices.

Background information about the vendor, Hewlett-Packard Enterprise Co., is available here and here.