Where your old plate goes depends on why you're replacing it
When you get a new license plate—whether because you bought a different car, moved to another state, or your plate expired—you don't just throw the old one away. Most states require you to return it, surrender it to the DMV, or destroy it in a specific way. What you do with it matters legally and can affect your registration records.
The exact process varies by state, but the general rule is this: if you still own the vehicle, the plate stays with you or goes back to your state's DMV. If you sold the car, the new owner gets the plate or you return it before the sale closes. If the plate is damaged or you straightforward want a new one, your DMV will tell you how to dispose of it.
Key Takeaways
- Most states require you to return old plates to the DMV in person, by mail, or at a vehicle inspection station, rather than keeping or discarding them yourself.
- If you sold your vehicle, you must remove the plate before handing over the car unless your state allows the buyer to keep it with a transfer form.
- Damaged or unreadable plates should be reported to your DMV so they can issue a replacement and update your registration record.
- Some states allow you to keep a plate as a souvenir only after officially retiring it and receiving written permission from the DMV.
- Keeping an active plate that is not registered to your current vehicle is illegal and can result in fines or registration suspension.
Returning plates to your state DMV
The most common requirement is to return your plate to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles within a set timeframe—usually 30 to 60 days after you no longer need it. You can do this in person at a DMV office, by mail using a prepaid envelope the DMV provides, or sometimes at a vehicle inspection station or authorized dealer.
When you return a plate, bring your vehicle registration or a form of ID. The DMV will deactivate the plate in their system so it cannot be used on another vehicle. This protects you because it removes any liability if someone else tries to use your old plate number. Keep a receipt or confirmation number showing you returned it.
If you're unsure whether your state requires return, contact your DMV directly or check their website. Some states are stricter than others, and penalties for not returning a plate can include fines or a hold on your registration renewal.
What happens if you sold your vehicle
When you sell a car, the license plate typically stays with the vehicle in most states—meaning the new owner keeps it and registers it in their name. However, you are responsible for removing the plate before the sale is final unless your state's law or your bill of sale explicitly says otherwise.
Before you hand over the keys, remove both the front and rear plates (if your state requires both). Take them to the DMV and report that the vehicle has been sold. Some states ask you to fill out a "Notice of Sale" or "Release of Liability" form at the same time. This step is critical because it tells the DMV you no longer own the vehicle and removes you from any traffic violations or parking tickets the new owner might rack up.
In a few states, you can transfer your plate to a new vehicle you buy, which means you keep the same number. If this applies to you, the DMV will tell you during the sale process. Otherwise, surrender the old plate and get a new one for your new car.
Damaged, lost, or illegible plates
If your plate is cracked, faded, bent, or so worn that the numbers are hard to read, report it to your DMV and request a replacement. A damaged plate can cause problems during traffic stops or vehicle inspections because officers cannot verify your registration quickly. It can also lead to a citation in some states.
Contact your DMV by phone, online, or in person and describe the damage. They will issue a new plate, usually for a small fee (typically $5 to $20, depending on your state). The old damaged plate should be returned or destroyed according to your state's instructions—ask the DMV when you request the replacement.
If your plate was stolen, report it to both the DMV and your local police department. A police report protects you if someone uses your plate number illegally. The DMV will cancel the stolen plate and issue a new one.
Keeping a plate as a souvenir or collectible
Some people want to keep an old plate for sentimental reasons—perhaps it was on a car they loved or it has a memorable number. This is legal only if the plate is no longer active and you have written permission from your DMV.
To keep a plate legally, first retire it officially by returning it to the DMV or filling out a retirement form (if your state offers one). Then contact your DMV and ask whether you can keep it as a souvenir. Some states allow this; others do not. If they say yes, request written confirmation so you have proof the plate is deactivated.
Never keep an active plate or one that is still registered to a vehicle. Using or displaying a plate that is not properly registered is illegal and can result in fines, a traffic citation, or suspension of your vehicle registration.
Online and mail-in plate returns
Many states now offer mail-in plate returns to make the process easier. If your state participates, you can request a prepaid return envelope from the DMV website or by phone. Place your plate in the envelope and drop it in the mail. The DMV will receive it, deactivate it in their system, and send you a confirmation.
Keep the confirmation number or receipt until you receive written proof that the plate was received and processed. This protects you if there is ever a question about whether you returned it. Some states also allow you to schedule a pickup if you have multiple plates or if you are unable to visit a DMV office.
If your state does not offer mail-in returns, ask whether you can return the plate at a vehicle inspection station, a registered dealer, or an authorized tag agent. These locations often have shorter wait times than the DMV office.
What not to do with your old plate
Do not throw your plate in the trash or leave it at the side of the road. Plates contain metal and reflective materials that can harm the environment, and an unregistered plate found in public can create confusion about vehicle ownership.
Do not give your plate to a friend or family member, even if they ask. Once a plate is deactivated, it cannot be reused, and giving it to someone else could lead to legal problems if they try to use it. Do not sell it online or to a collector without first confirming with your DMV that it is legal to do so in your state.
Do not keep an active plate on a vehicle you no longer own or drive. This is a registration violation and can result in fines. If you are unsure whether your plate is still active, contact your DMV and ask them to check your registration status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep my old license plate as a souvenir?
Only if you retire it officially and get written permission from your DMV. Return the plate first, then contact your state's DMV to ask whether you can keep it as a collectible. Some states allow this; others do not. Never keep an active plate.
What if I move to a different state?
Return your old plate to your previous state's DMV before you register your vehicle in the new state. Some states allow you to do this by mail. Contact both DMVs to confirm the process and any important date. Your new state will issue you a new plate once your vehicle is registered there.
Do I have to return my plate if I'm scrapping my car?
Yes, in most states. Before you send the car to a scrapyard, remove the plate and return it to the DMV or give it to the scrapyard if they handle plate returns. Contact your DMV to report that the vehicle is being scrapped so they can cancel the registration.
What happens if I don't return my old plate?
Depending on your state, you may face fines, a hold on your registration renewal, or suspension of your driving privileges. The DMV may also hold you liable for any violations or parking tickets associated with the unreturned plate. Return it as soon as possible if you have not already done so.
Can I transfer my plate to a new car I buy?
In some states, yes—you can keep the same plate number when you buy a new vehicle. In others, you must get a new plate. Contact your DMV to ask whether plate transfer is an option in your state and what the process involves.