Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency issues license plates

License plates come from one place: the government agency that handles vehicle registration in your state. In most states this is called the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). In some states it has a different name — the Department of Licensing in Washington, the Registry of Motor Vehicles in Massachusetts, the Secretary of State's office in Michigan. Regardless of the name, this is the only source for legal plates.

You cannot buy license plates from a private vendor, online retailer, or auto parts store. Those businesses may sell decorative frames, covers, or personalized plate designs, but the actual plate itself — the metal or plastic rectangle with the state seal and registration number — must come from your state's motor vehicle agency.

You get plates when you register a vehicle or renew an existing registration. The agency produces the plate and mails it to you, or you pick it up in person at a local office. The timing and method depend on your state and whether you are registering a new vehicle or renewing an old one.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's DMV or motor vehicle agency is the only legal source for license plates; no private business can issue them.
  • You receive plates as part of vehicle registration, either by mail or by picking them up at a local DMV office.
  • Most states mail plates within two to four weeks of registration, though some offer temporary plates or expedited service for an extra fee.
  • Each state has different rules about plate design, personalization, and special plates (military, disabled, environmental), so check your state's website for options.
  • You need your vehicle's VIN, proof of ownership, and proof of insurance before you can register and receive plates.

How to register a new vehicle and get plates

When you buy a new or used car, the dealer or private seller typically handles the first registration step. If you buy from a dealer, they often submit the paperwork to the DMV on your behalf. You will receive a temporary registration document (sometimes called a temporary tag or registration permit) that lets you drive legally while the permanent plates are being made.

If you buy from a private seller, you must register the vehicle yourself. Visit your state's DMV website or a local office and bring your proof of ownership (the title or bill of sale), proof of insurance, and a valid ID. You will pay a registration fee, which varies by state and vehicle type. The DMV will then issue your permanent plates, usually mailing them within two to four weeks.

Some states offer expedited plate service if you need them faster. This typically costs extra and may allow you to pick up plates the same day or within a few days. Check your state's DMV website for expedited options and fees.

Renewing your registration and getting replacement plates

When your registration expires, you renew it with the same agency. Most states send you a renewal notice in the mail before your expiration date. You can renew online, by mail, or in person, depending on your state. If you renew online or by mail, you do not automatically receive new plates — your old plates remain valid as long as your registration is current.

You only receive new plates if your old ones are damaged, lost, or stolen. If that happens, contact your DMV and request a replacement plate. You will pay a replacement fee (usually $10 to $30) and receive a new plate in the mail or can pick it up at a local office.

Some states require you to get new plates every few years as part of the registration renewal process. Check your state's rules to know whether your next renewal will include new plates or just a registration sticker.

Personalized and specialty plates

Many states offer personalized plates that display a custom combination of letters and numbers instead of the standard random sequence. You request a personalized plate through your state's DMV, usually online or at a local office. There is an additional fee, typically $25 to $100 depending on the state. The DMV checks whether your requested combination is available and not offensive. If approved, you receive the personalized plate in the mail.

Specialty plates are also available in most states — military veteran plates, disabled person plates, environmental or conservation plates, college alumni plates, and others. Each has its own design and may come with different fees or benefits (such as parking privileges for disabled plates). Visit your state's DMV website to see which specialty plates are offered and how to request one.

Temporary plates and driving while you wait

When you register a new vehicle, most states issue a temporary registration document or temporary plate that is valid for 30 to 90 days. This temporary tag lets you drive legally while your permanent plates are being manufactured and mailed. The temporary document usually comes as a paper form that you keep in your vehicle, or as a temporary plate you attach to your bumper.

Do not drive without a temporary tag or permanent plates. Driving an unregistered vehicle is illegal and can result in a traffic citation and fines. If your permanent plates have not arrived by the time your temporary registration expires, contact your DMV. Some states will issue an extension or a second temporary tag.

What to do if your plates are lost, stolen, or damaged

If your license plates are stolen or damaged, report it to your local police department and get a report number. Then contact your state's DMV and request replacement plates. Bring your proof of ownership and the police report. You will pay a replacement fee and receive new plates in the mail or can pick them up at a local office.

If you move to a different state, you must register your vehicle in the new state and get new plates. The process is the same as registering a new vehicle — bring your title, proof of insurance, and ID to the new state's DMV. Your old plates become invalid once you register in the new state.

Finding your state's DMV office and hours

Every state's DMV has a website with a list of local offices, hours, and services. Search "[your state] DMV" or "[your state] motor vehicle registration" to find the official website. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, with some offering Saturday hours. Many states now let you schedule an appointment online, which can save you time waiting in line.

If you cannot visit an office in person, many states allow you to renew registration or request replacement plates by mail or online. Check your state's website to see which services are available without a visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get license plates before my vehicle is fully registered?

No. Plates are issued as part of the registration process. You will receive a temporary registration document or temporary plate first, which lets you drive legally while your permanent plates are being made. The permanent plates arrive once registration is complete.

How long does it take to get plates in the mail?

Most states mail permanent plates within two to four weeks of registration. Some states are faster, others slower. Check your state's DMV website for typical timelines. If you need plates faster, ask about expedited service when you register.

What if I move to a different state?

You must register your vehicle in your new state and get new plates. Your old plates are no longer valid. Visit the new state's DMV with your title, proof of insurance, and ID to register and receive new plates.

Can I keep my old plates if I buy a new vehicle?

Some states allow you to transfer plates from one vehicle to another, but rules vary. Contact your state's DMV to ask whether plate transfer is allowed and what documents you need.

What if my personalized plate request is denied?

The DMV denies requests if the combination is already taken, contains offensive language, or violates state rules. You can request a different combination. The DMV website usually shows which combinations are available before you submit your request.