What to do when ready after discovering your plates are missing

If you notice your license plates are gone, file a police report the same day. You will need the report number for your DMV paperwork, and filing early creates a record that protects you if those plates are used in a crime or traffic violation. Call the non-emergency line for your local police department—you do not need to go to the station for a theft report, though some departments let you file online.

Do not drive the vehicle on public roads until you have replacement plates. Most states treat driving without plates as a moving violation, even if yours were stolen. If you need to move the car, tow it or drive it directly to the DMV office with your police report in hand.

Contact your insurance company and report the theft. Some policies cover the cost of replacement plates; others do not. Knowing your coverage before you pay will save you money.

Key Takeaways

  • File a police report on the day you discover the theft, because you will need the report number when you explore for replacements at the DMV.
  • Do not drive the vehicle without plates; go directly to the DMV with your police report, vehicle registration, and driver's license.
  • Bring your insurance card to the DMV in case your policy covers replacement plate fees.
  • Temporary plates issued at the DMV are usually valid for 30 to 60 days while you wait for permanent plates to arrive by mail.
  • If you suspect the theft was part of a larger crime, ask the police whether they will investigate or if it is treated as a civil matter.

Documents you need to bring to the DMV

Gather your police report number, your vehicle registration card, and a valid photo ID (driver's license or state ID). Some DMV offices also ask for proof of insurance, so bring your insurance card or a digital copy on your phone. If you do not have your registration card with you, you can look up your vehicle information online through your state's DMV website using your VIN (vehicle identification number), which is on your dashboard or in your insurance paperwork.

If someone else registered the vehicle or holds the title, bring that person with you or bring a notarized power of attorney. Rules vary by state, so call your local DMV office before you go to confirm what documents they require.

Getting temporary plates at the DMV

When you arrive at the DMV with your police report and registration, tell the clerk that your plates were stolen. The DMV will issue you temporary plates—usually a paper plate or a temporary metal plate—that you can use when ready while your permanent replacement plates are manufactured and mailed to you.

Temporary plates are valid for 30 to 60 days depending on your state. Write down the expiration date. If your permanent plates do not arrive before that date, return to the DMV with your temporary plate receipt and ask for an extension; most states will grant one without charging you again.

Keep the temporary plate visible on your vehicle at all times. If you are stopped by police and cannot show a valid temporary plate, you can be cited for driving without plates even though you reported the theft.

The cost of replacement plates

Replacement plate fees vary by state and by plate type. A standard replacement plate typically costs between $15 and $50, though vanity plates, specialty plates, or plates for commercial vehicles cost more. Some states charge nothing if you have a police report documenting the theft; others charge a reduced fee. Call your DMV office or check your state's DMV website to learn the fee for your specific situation before you go.

If your insurance covers theft-related replacement costs, submit your DMV receipt to your insurance company for reimbursement. Keep a copy of your police report and your DMV receipt for your records.

When your permanent plates arrive in the mail

Permanent replacement plates usually arrive within two to four weeks, though timing varies by state and by how busy the DMV is. When they arrive, remove your temporary plate and install the new permanent plates on your vehicle. Most states require plates on both the front and rear of the vehicle; check your state's rules if you are unsure.

If your permanent plates do not arrive within the timeframe the DMV gave you, contact the DMV office where you applied. Bring your temporary plate receipt so they can look up your order. If the plates are lost in the mail, the DMV will issue a replacement set, usually at no additional charge.

Preventing plate theft in the future

Thieves steal license plates to use them on stolen vehicles or to avoid tolls and traffic cameras. You cannot eliminate the risk entirely, but you can reduce it. Park in well-lit, populated areas when possible. If you have a garage, use it. Install anti-theft plate fasteners—these are screws that require a special tool to remove and cost $15 to $40 for a set. They are not foolproof, but they slow down thieves enough that many will move on to an easier target.

Some states allow you to register for plate theft alerts through the DMV, which will notify you if your plates are used in a traffic violation or toll violation. Check your state's DMV website to see if this service is available.

If your plates are used in a crime

If you learn that your stolen plates were used in a traffic violation, toll violation, or crime, contact the police department that issued the citation or report. Bring your police report documenting the original theft. The violation should be dismissed because the plates were not on your vehicle at the time.

If you receive a citation or bill in the mail for a violation you did not commit, do not ignore it. Respond to the citation with a copy of your police report and explain that your plates were stolen. Most jurisdictions will cancel the citation once they verify the theft report.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get replacement plates without a police report?

Most states require a police report to replace stolen plates, because the report proves the theft was not your fault. Some states will issue replacements without a report if you pay a higher fee, but this is uncommon. File a report—it takes 10 minutes and protects you legally.

Do I have to go to the DMV in person?

Many states now let you order replacement plates online or by mail if you have a police report number. Check your state's DMV website to see if this option is available. If you must go in person, bring all your documents so you do not have to make a second trip.

What if I lose my temporary plate before my permanent plates arrive?

Return to the DMV with your receipt and police report. The DMV will issue a replacement temporary plate at no charge. Do not drive without a valid temporary or permanent plate, even if you are waiting for a replacement.

How long do I have to report the theft to the police?

Report the theft as soon as you notice it. There is no legal important date, but filing early creates a clear record and protects you if the plates are used in a crime. The longer you wait, the harder it is to prove when the theft occurred.

Will my insurance rates go up if my plates are stolen?

Theft of plates alone should not raise your rates, because it is not a claim against your policy. If the plates were used in a crime and you are held liable, that is different. Report the theft to your insurance company so they have a record, but do not expect a rate increase for the theft itself.