What you need to do to swap out your plates
Changing license plates is a straightforward job that takes about 15 minutes and requires only a screwdriver. You remove the bolts holding the old plate to your vehicle's front and rear bumper, slide the plate off, and bolt the new one in place. The physical swap itself is the straightforward part—what matters is understanding when you actually need to change them and what paperwork has to happen first.
The reason you're changing plates matters. You might be moving to a different state, switching from a standard plate to a specialty plate (like a veteran or environmental design), replacing a damaged or stolen plate, or updating after a vehicle registration renewal. Each situation has different steps before you touch a wrench.
Key Takeaways
- You must register your vehicle with your new state's motor vehicle department before installing new plates, or you risk a traffic stop and citation.
- Your state's DMV or equivalent agency issues the new plates—you do not buy them from a parts store or online retailer.
- The physical removal and installation takes a screwdriver and about 15 minutes; most vehicles use standard bolts that turn counterclockwise.
- Keep your old plates until your state tells you what to do with them; some states require you to return them, others let you keep them.
- If your plates are damaged, stolen, or unreadable, contact your state's motor vehicle office to request replacements before the change becomes illegal.
When you actually need new plates
You need new plates when your state's motor vehicle department issues them to you. This happens in specific situations: you move to a new state and register your vehicle there, your registration renews and your state issues new plates as part of that process, you request a specialty plate design, your current plate is damaged or stolen, or your vehicle's registration changes (such as a change in ownership or vehicle class).
Not every state reissues plates at registration renewal. Some states keep the same plate for the life of the vehicle and only update the registration sticker. Check your state's motor vehicle website or call their main line to find out whether your renewal triggers new plates. If you're moving states, you must register in your new state before you can legally drive there, and that registration will come with new plates.
Do not change plates on your own initiative or because you want a different design. The plates your state issued to you are tied to your vehicle's registration record. Installing plates that do not match your registration is illegal and will result in a traffic citation.
Getting your new plates from your state
Your state's motor vehicle department is the only source for legal license plates. You cannot buy them from a retailer, order them online from a private company, or make them yourself. When your registration changes in a way that requires new plates, your state will either mail them to you or tell you to pick them up at a local office.
If you're moving to a new state, visit that state's motor vehicle website and look for the section on vehicle registration for out-of-state residents. You will need your current registration, proof of residency in the new state (usually a utility bill or lease), your vehicle's title, and proof of insurance. Some states let you complete this online; others require an in-person visit. Once your registration is processed, the new plates are either mailed to your address or ready for pickup. Do not install them until you have the official paperwork confirming your new registration is active.
If you're renewing your registration in your current state and new plates are part of that renewal, the plates will arrive by mail or you'll be told to pick them up. The letter or notice you receive will specify the timeline and whether you need to do anything else before installing them.
Removing your old plates safely
Locate the bolts holding each plate to your vehicle. Most vehicles have two bolts per plate—one at the top and one at the bottom—though some have four. The bolts are usually Phillips-head or slotted and sit inside small metal frames or clips behind the plate. You will need a screwdriver that fits the bolt head; a cordless drill with a screwdriver bit makes the job faster but is not necessary.
Turn each bolt counterclockwise to loosen it. Do not force it; if a bolt is stuck, spray a small amount of penetrating oil around it and wait a few minutes. Once loose, unscrew the bolt by hand and set it aside in a safe place. Slide the old plate away from the vehicle. If the plate is cracked, bent, or has missing pieces, set it aside to return to your state if required. If the plate is in good condition and your state lets you keep old plates, store it safely.
Inspect the bolt holes on your vehicle's bumper. They should be clean and free of rust or debris. If you see rust, wipe it away with a dry cloth. If a bolt hole is stripped (the bolt spins without tightening), you may need a slightly larger bolt or a bolt with a larger washer to find the new plate. Most hardware stores carry replacement bolts in common sizes.
Installing your new plates
Align the new plate with the bolt holes on your vehicle's bumper. The plate should sit flat and centered. Insert the bolts through the plate's holes and into the vehicle's bolt holes. Turn each bolt clockwise by hand first to make sure it threads smoothly. Once hand-tight, use your screwdriver or drill to tighten each bolt firmly—snug enough that the plate does not move or rattle, but not so tight that you crack the plate or strip the bolt.
Check that the plate is straight and sits flush against the bumper. The plate should not be bent, tilted, or hanging loose. If your vehicle has both front and rear plates, repeat this process for the rear. Some vehicles have a rear plate mounted on the trunk lid or hatch; the process is identical.
Once both plates are installed, take a photo of each one with your phone and verify that the plate number matches your new registration paperwork. This photo is useful if you're ever asked to prove the plates match your registration.
What to do with your old plates
Your state's rules for old plates vary. Some states require you to return them to a motor vehicle office or an authorized agent within a set timeframe. Other states let you keep them as a souvenir or for personal use (such as displaying them in a garage). A few states ask you to destroy them or cut them in half.
Check your state's motor vehicle website or the paperwork that came with your new plates. It will specify what to do with the old ones. If your state requires return, you can usually mail them or drop them off at a local office. If you're moving out of state, you may be able to return them to your old state's motor vehicle office before you leave, or mail them back.
Do not install old plates on another vehicle or sell them. License plates are tied to a specific vehicle's registration and cannot be legally transferred or reused without going through your state's motor vehicle department.
Troubleshooting common problems
If a bolt is stuck and will not turn, spray penetrating oil around the bolt and wait 10 to 15 minutes. Try again with firm, steady pressure. If it still will not budge, you may need a bolt extractor tool, which you can rent from an auto parts store. Do not force it hard enough to strip the bolt or damage the bumper.
If a bolt hole in your vehicle is stripped and the bolt spins without tightening, remove the bolt and try a slightly larger diameter bolt with a larger washer. If that does not work, you can use a threaded insert kit (available at hardware stores) to repair the hole. Alternatively, drill a new hole nearby and use that instead—this is a last resort and should only be done if the original hole cannot be salvaged.
If your new plate arrives damaged or with a printing error, contact your state's motor vehicle department when ready. Do not install it. They will send you a replacement at no cost. If your plate is stolen before you install it, report the theft to your state's motor vehicle office and request a replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install my new plates before my registration is officially active?
No. Install new plates only after your state has processed your registration and issued the plates to you. Installing plates that do not match your active registration is illegal and will result in a traffic citation. Wait for official confirmation from your state's motor vehicle department before making the swap.
What if I lose a bolt while removing the old plate?
Buy replacement bolts at a hardware store. Bring the old plate or a photo of it to show the store staff the bolt size and type. Most replacement bolts cost less than a dollar. Use the same size and type for the new plate.
Do I need to notify my insurance company when I change plates?
No. Your insurance policy is tied to your vehicle's identification number (VIN), not your license plate number. The plate change does not affect your coverage. However, if you moved to a new state, you should update your address with your insurance company.
Can I change my plates myself or do I have to go to a mechanic?
You can change them yourself with a screwdriver. It is a straightforward job that takes about 15 minutes. You do not need a mechanic unless a bolt is severely stuck or a bolt hole is damaged and needs repair.
What if my new state plates arrive damaged in the mail?
Contact your state's motor vehicle department and report the damage. They will send you a replacement plate at no cost. Do not install a damaged plate; it may not be readable by traffic cameras or law enforcement, which could cause problems during a traffic stop.