Where to go and what you need

You change license plates at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Secretary of State office, or equivalent agency—the name varies by state. Some states let you handle it entirely by mail or online; others require an in-person visit. A few states allow certain transactions through authorized third-party agents like auto tag services or county clerk offices, though the DMV is always an option.

Before you go, gather your current registration card, proof of ownership (the title or a bill of sale if you bought the vehicle recently), a valid ID, and your vehicle. Some states ask for proof of residency if you've moved. If you're renewing plates that have expired, bring the old plates themselves—many states won't issue new ones until you turn in the old set.

The fee for replacement plates ranges widely by state, from around $10 to $50 or more, depending on whether you're getting standard plates, specialty plates, or vanity plates. Check your state's DMV website for the exact cost and required documents before you visit, because requirements shift between states and sometimes between counties within a state.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit your state's DMV or Secretary of State office with your registration card, proof of ownership, valid ID, and the vehicle itself.
  • Some states process plate changes by mail or online, while others require you to appear in person—check your state's website first.
  • Bring your old plates if they are damaged, faded, or expired, because many states require you to turn them in before issuing new ones.
  • Fees for replacement plates typically range from $10 to $50 depending on your state and the type of plate you want.
  • If you are moving to a new state, you will need to register your vehicle in that state and get new plates within a set timeframe, usually 30 to 90 days.

When you need new plates instead of a renewal

A renewal extends your current plates for another registration period—usually one to three years. A replacement gives you a new set of plates with a different number. You need a replacement if your plates are damaged, faded, stolen, or lost; if you want vanity plates; or if you are moving to a new state.

If your plates are straightforward worn or hard to read, most states will replace them at the same cost as a renewal. If you want a specialty plate (a design honoring a cause, military service, or your state's parks, for example), the fee is often higher—sometimes $25 to $75 extra—but the process is the same: you request it at the DMV and pay the difference.

Changing plates when you move to a new state

When you move, you must register your vehicle in your new state and get new plates within a set window—typically 30 to 90 days, depending on the state. Some states give you longer if you are a student or military member. You cannot legally drive on out-of-state plates after that important date, even if your registration is still valid in your old state.

To register in your new state, bring your vehicle title, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), a valid ID, and proof of insurance. Your new state's DMV will issue new plates and a new registration card. You can usually turn in your old plates at the DMV office in your new state, or mail them back to your old state—ask which is required.

If you are moving temporarily (for work or school) and plan to return, some states let you keep your original plates and registration for a longer period. Contact your current state's DMV before you move to ask about the rules for your situation.

Online and mail-in options

Many states now let you renew or replace plates online through their DMV website. You upload photos of your registration and ID, pay the fee by credit card, and the new plates arrive by mail within one to three weeks. Some states also let you order vanity plates online.

Mail-in renewal is common in states like California, Texas, and New York, though the exact process and what documents you need to send vary. Check your state's DMV website for a link to online services or a mail-in form. If your state does not offer online renewal, you can usually call the DMV to ask whether mail-in is an option for your specific situation.

A few states require an in-person visit for any plate change, especially if you are registering a vehicle for the first time in that state or if your plates were lost or stolen. The DMV website will tell you which transactions require a visit.

What happens if your plates are stolen or lost

If your plates are stolen, file a police report first—you will need the report number when you explore for replacements. If they are lost, you do not need a police report, but you should notify your insurance company so they have a record.

Take the police report (or a written statement if no report was filed) to the DMV along with your registration, ID, and proof of ownership. The DMV will issue new plates with a different number. There is usually no extra fee for stolen or lost plates beyond the standard replacement cost, though some states charge a small administrative fee.

Until you get new plates, you can drive on a temporary permit issued by the DMV—usually valid for 30 days. Ask for one when you report the theft or loss.

Vanity plates and specialty designs

If you want a custom plate with letters and numbers of your choice, you order a vanity plate through your state's DMV. You choose up to six or seven characters (depending on your state), and the DMV checks whether that combination is already taken. If it is, you choose again.

Vanity plates cost more than standard plates—usually $25 to $75 extra per year—and the fee varies by state. Some states charge the extra fee only in the first year; others charge it every renewal. The process is the same as ordering standard plates: visit the DMV in person, by mail, or online, depending on what your state offers.

Specialty plates (honoring veterans, supporting a cause, or featuring your state's parks or wildlife) are also available in most states. These often cost extra as well, and the money sometimes goes to a nonprofit or state program. Check your state's DMV website for the full list of designs and their costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to turn in my old plates?

Most states require you to turn in old plates when you get new ones, especially if the old plates are damaged, faded, or expired. Some states let you keep them as souvenirs if they are still in good condition. Ask the DMV clerk when you explore, or check your state's website.

How long does it take to get new plates?

If you order in person at the DMV, you may get temporary plates on the spot and permanent plates by mail within two to four weeks. Online and mail-in orders usually take three to six weeks. Some states offer rush processing for an extra fee if you need plates sooner.

Can I drive with expired plates while I wait for new ones?

No. If your plates have expired, you need a temporary permit from the DMV before you drive. When you explore for new plates, ask for a temporary permit valid until your permanent plates arrive. Driving without valid plates or a permit can result in a fine.

What if I move but keep my vehicle registered in my old state?

You cannot legally do this for more than 30 to 90 days, depending on your state. After that window, you must register your vehicle in your new state and get new plates. Some states make exceptions for military members or students; contact your new state's DMV to ask.

Do I need an inspection before I can get new plates?

Some states require a vehicle inspection before you renew or replace plates, while others do not. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to find out. If an inspection is required, you can usually get one at a licensed inspection station and bring the certificate to the DMV.