Topeka ? The Department of Revenue is promoting a new, $500,000 “e-tags” system that allows some Kansans to renew their vehicle registrations by phone or the Internet.

The department began taking renewals in late September for registrations that expire in October. So far, only 158 Kansans have taken advantage of the system, but the goal is 125,000 vehicle registrations renewed electronically during the first 12 months.

The system requires Kansans to pay their registration fees and vehicle taxes with a credit card and incur a card processing fee. It also requires them to have liability insurance with one of 13 companies, though that list may grow.

Sheila Walker, director of the Division of Vehicles, staged a news conference Friday to show off the new system.

Kansans already can renew vehicle registrations by mail or at their county treasurer’s office.

“Our mission is to provide a simple, convenient way for citizens of Kansas to renew their vehicle registrations,” Walker said.

The e-tags system is accessible over the Internet, at http://www.kswebtags.org/ or by phone at (866) 457-8247.

Kansans can use the phone or Internet if they already have their vehicles registered in the state and are living at the same address as listed in a renewal form the department sends out from 45 to 60 days before a registration expires.

Walker said use of the system was limited also by the number of insurers participating. Those companies provide databases that allow the department to confirm insurance coverage.