It was somebody at the counter, and I did just say, "Oh," or, "Really," or some such and paid my fine and got my new permit--I _had_ failed to notice that it was expiring, so I figured that, renewal form or no renewal form, that part of it was on me.

And I did feel bad for the officer who had ticketed the car; I walked up as he was writing the ticket and (politely) asked what it was for and he did get a bit defensive--not rude, but clearly, he was used to being yelled at--I'm sure it is a thankless job!

But this is good to know if it or something similar happens again. Thank you.