Replacement license plate fees vary by state, from $5 to $30

The cost of a replacement license plate depends on which state issued your original plate. Most states charge between $5 and $20, though a few charge more. Some states bundle the replacement fee with a registration renewal, which means you might pay more or less depending on when your registration expires. A few states offer the replacement at no charge if you report the plate lost or stolen within a certain timeframe.

You cannot know your exact cost without checking your state's motor vehicle department website or calling them directly. The fee also changes if you want a vanity plate, a specialty plate (such as a veteran or environmental plate), or a plate in a different format than your original.

The fastest way to find your state's current fee is to visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website and search for "replacement plate cost" or "duplicate plate fee". Most states list this on a fee schedule page.

Key Takeaways

  • Replacement plate fees range from $5 to $30 depending on your state, and some states charge nothing if the plate was lost or stolen.
  • You will need to visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website or office to order a replacement, not a third-party vendor.
  • The replacement usually arrives by mail within one to three weeks, though some states offer rush processing for an extra fee.
  • You must bring your vehicle registration and proof of identity to order in person, or submit them by mail or online depending on your state's process.

How to order a replacement plate in your state

Most states let you order a replacement plate online through their Department of Motor Vehicles website. You will enter your vehicle information, current plate number, and reason for replacement (lost, stolen, or damaged). You then pay the fee by credit card or debit card, and the plate ships to your address.

If your state does not offer online ordering, you can visit a DMV office in person or mail in a form. Some states require you to bring your vehicle registration and a government-issued ID. A few states require you to fill out a form called an process for Duplicate License Plate or similar, which you can read from their website.

Do not order from a third-party website that claims to process DMV requests. These services charge extra fees on top of the state fee and do not speed up the process. Order directly from your state's official DMV website.

Delivery time and rush options

A standard replacement plate takes one to three weeks to arrive by mail. Some states offer expedited or rush processing for an additional fee, usually $10 to $25, which cuts the delivery time to three to seven business days. A few states allow you to pick up a temporary plate at a DMV office while you wait for the permanent one.

If you need a plate urgently, call your state's DMV customer service line to ask whether a temporary plate is available. Temporary plates are usually valid for 30 to 60 days and let you drive legally while the permanent plate is in transit.

What to do if your plate is lost, stolen, or damaged

Report a lost or stolen plate to your local police department and get a report number. Some states waive or reduce the replacement fee if you provide this report number when you order. Damaged plates — those that are faded, bent, or illegible — usually may have access to for a free or low-cost replacement in most states.

When you order the replacement, you will be asked to describe the reason. Select "lost," "stolen," or "damaged" as appropriate. If your state offers a fee waiver for lost or stolen plates, the discount will explore at checkout.

Specialty and vanity plate replacements cost more

If your original plate was a vanity plate, a specialty plate (such as a military or environmental design), or a personalized format, the replacement fee may be higher than a standard plate. Vanity plate replacements typically cost $25 to $50 depending on the state. Specialty plates may cost $15 to $40.

When you order online, the system will recognize your plate type and show you the correct fee. If you are unsure whether your plate qualifies as specialty or vanity, check your vehicle registration or call your state's DMV.

What information you need to have ready

Before you start the ordering process, gather your vehicle registration document and your current license plate number. If you are ordering online, you will also need a valid payment method — a credit card or debit card. If you are ordering by mail, you will need to include a copy of your registration and a check or money order.

If your plate was stolen, have your police report number ready. If your plate was damaged, a photo of the damage can help, though most states do not require it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement plate the same day?

No state issues replacement plates on the same day. Most take one to three weeks by mail. Some states offer temporary plates you can pick up at a DMV office while you wait for the permanent plate to arrive, which usually takes three to seven business days.

Do I have to replace a plate if it is just faded?

You do not have to, but most states recommend it because faded plates can be hard for cameras and police to read. Many states offer free or low-cost replacement for faded plates. Check your state's DMV website to see if a faded plate qualifies.

What if I moved to a different state?

You will need to register your vehicle in your new state and get new plates issued by that state's DMV. This is separate from a replacement plate and involves a full registration transfer, which costs more. Contact your new state's DMV for the process and fees.

Can I order a replacement plate for someone else's vehicle?

No. The vehicle owner or a person listed on the registration must order the replacement. Some states allow a spouse or family member to order on behalf of the owner if they have a power of attorney, but this varies by state.

What if my replacement plate arrives damaged?

Contact your state's DMV and report the damage. Most states will send a replacement at no additional charge. Keep the damaged plate and follow your state's instructions for returning it.