Once I paid a penalty, too many vehicles and lost track. Couldn't find tag or renewal notice stood in line for over an hour only to find out it was paid and we either did not receive or lost once received. Found it about two years ago.
When I was dating my now wife (in 1980) I was driving her car, saw a CHP wheel across a median strip of a divided highway and raced up to me with red lights blaring. Officer says why are you driving Mary's car? I thought he felt I stole it and explained our relationship. I figured I was good to go started the car and he said where are you going, I need to write you a ticket. Expired tags.