Guam license plates are issued by the Department of Revenue and Taxation, and you'll need proof of vehicle ownership, a valid ID, and proof of residency to get one
Guam is a U.S. territory, so its license plates follow a different system than the 50 states. The plates display "Guam" at the top and use a format of three letters followed by three numbers. If you own a vehicle registered in Guam or are moving there with a vehicle, you'll need to register it with the Department of Revenue and Taxation (DRT) and obtain a Guam plate.
The process requires you to visit a DRT office in person — there is no online registration for new plates. You cannot straightforward order a plate by mail or through a website. The main office is located in Hagatna, but satellite offices operate on the island as well. Bring your documents with you on your first visit, because you'll need them to complete the registration on the spot.
Key Takeaways
- Guam license plates are issued only by the Department of Revenue and Taxation, and you must register in person at one of their offices.
- You will need a valid government-issued ID, proof of vehicle ownership (title or bill of sale), proof of residency on Guam, and proof of insurance before registration.
- The registration fee and plate cost vary depending on the vehicle's weight and type, so call the DRT office ahead to confirm the exact amount you'll owe.
- Plates are issued on the same day you complete your registration, so you can leave with your plate if all documents are in order.
Documents you need to bring to the DRT office
Bring your vehicle's title or bill of sale to prove ownership. If you are registering a vehicle you just purchased, the bill of sale must show the seller's name, the vehicle identification number (VIN), the sale price, and the date of sale. If you already own the vehicle and are transferring a registration from another place, bring the original title.
You also need a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or military ID all work. Bring proof that you live on Guam, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or government correspondence with your name and address. Finally, bring proof of vehicle insurance. Guam requires all registered vehicles to carry liability insurance, and the DRT will not issue a plate without proof of an active policy.
If you are registering a vehicle owned by a business or organization rather than yourself, bring the business registration documents and a letter authorizing you to register the vehicle on the business's behalf.
Registration fees and plate costs on Guam
The DRT charges a registration fee based on the vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) — the maximum weight the vehicle is designed to carry, including cargo and passengers. Passenger cars typically fall into a lower fee bracket than trucks or commercial vehicles. The plate itself has a separate cost.
Exact fees change periodically, so contact the Department of Revenue and Taxation directly before you go to confirm the current amount. You can reach them by phone or visit their office to ask. Bring enough cash or a card to cover both the registration fee and the plate cost on the day you register.
How to renew a Guam license plate
Guam license plates expire annually, and renewal notices are mailed to the address on file with the DRT. You can renew by mail or in person at a DRT office. If you renew by mail, send your renewal notice along with payment to the address listed on the form. If you renew in person, bring your current plate, your renewal notice, and proof of current insurance.
Renewal is faster than initial registration because you do not need to bring proof of ownership or residency again — the DRT already has that information on file. However, if your address has changed, bring proof of your new address so the DRT can update their records.
Special plates and personalized options
Guam offers personalized license plates that display a custom combination of letters and numbers instead of the standard format. You can request a personalized plate when you register or renew. The DRT will check whether your requested combination is available. Personalized plates cost more than standard plates, and the exact price varies.
Guam also issues specialty plates for certain groups, such as military personnel, veterans, or disabled drivers. If you fall into one of these categories, ask the DRT staff about specialty plate options when you register. You may need to provide additional documentation, such as a military ID or a disability certification.
What to do if your plate is lost, stolen, or damaged
If your Guam plate is lost, stolen, or damaged beyond use, visit a DRT office to request a replacement. Bring your current registration and proof of insurance. The DRT will issue a new plate with the same number as your original plate. There is a replacement fee, which is less than the cost of an initial registration.
If your plate was stolen, you may also want to file a report with the Guam Police Department. While this is not required to get a replacement plate, it creates a record in case the stolen plate is used on another vehicle or for fraud.
Moving to Guam with a vehicle from the mainland
If you are relocating to Guam from the United States and bringing a vehicle with you, you must register it with the DRT and obtain a Guam plate within a set timeframe after arrival. Bring your current mainland registration, your vehicle's title, and your proof of residency on Guam. The DRT will cancel your mainland registration and issue a Guam plate.
Your vehicle must pass a safety and emissions inspection before the DRT will issue a plate. Schedule an inspection at an authorized inspection station on Guam. Once you pass, bring the inspection certificate to the DRT along with your other documents. The inspection is required even if your vehicle passed inspection on the mainland.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I register a vehicle online or by mail in Guam?
No. The DRT requires all new vehicle registrations to be completed in person at one of their offices. You can renew an existing registration by mail, but initial registration must happen face-to-face with a DRT staff member.
How long does it take to get a Guam license plate?
Plates are issued on the same day you complete your registration, provided all your documents are in order and you pay the fees. You leave the DRT office with your plate the same day.
What happens if I drive on a Guam plate that has expired?
Driving with an expired plate is a violation and can result in a traffic citation. Renewal notices are mailed before expiration, so watch for yours in the mail and renew before the expiration date listed on your plate.
Do I need a Guam driver's license to register a vehicle in Guam?
No. You need a valid government-issued photo ID, which can be a mainland driver's license, passport, or military ID. However, if you plan to drive on Guam roads, you will eventually need to obtain a Guam driver's license.
Can I transfer my mainland license plate number to a Guam plate?
No. Guam plates use a different format and numbering system than mainland plates. You will receive a new Guam plate number when you register your vehicle with the DRT.