License plate replacement fees vary by state, but most fall between $5 and $25

The cost to change your license plate depends entirely on which state issued it. Some states charge a flat fee of $5 to $10 for a standard replacement plate. Others charge $15 to $25. A few states charge nothing at all if you are replacing a damaged or unreadable plate, but charge a fee if you want a different design or vanity plate. Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website lists the exact fee for your situation.

The fee covers the physical plate itself and the administrative work to update your registration record. If you are changing plates because yours is damaged, lost, or stolen, the fee is usually the same as a standard replacement. If you want a specialty plate—a vanity plate with custom letters, a commemorative design, or a plate supporting a cause—expect to pay more, often $25 to $50 on top of the base replacement fee.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard license plate replacement costs $5 to $25 depending on your state, with most states charging between $10 and $20.
  • Vanity plates and specialty designs cost extra, usually $25 to $50 above the base replacement fee.
  • You can find your state's exact fee on your DMV website before you go in or submit an online request.
  • Some states let you order plates by mail or online, while others require you to visit a DMV office in person.

How to find your state's exact fee

Go to your state's DMV website and search for "license plate replacement cost" or "plate fee." The site will show you the fee for a standard replacement plate and any additional charges for specialty plates. Write down the fee before you go to the DMV office, so you know exactly how much cash or which payment method to bring.

If your state's website is unclear, call the DMV directly. The phone number is on the website. Have your vehicle registration number ready when you call, because some states charge different fees based on vehicle type (motorcycle, commercial truck, passenger car).

Standard replacement versus specialty plates

A standard replacement plate is a regular plate with your state's design and your assigned number. This is the cheapest option and usually costs $5 to $20. You get this if your current plate is damaged, lost, stolen, or if you straightforward want a new one.

A specialty or vanity plate has a custom design, your chosen letters and numbers, or a message supporting a cause (wildlife conservation, military service, a university). These cost more because the state has to produce a unique plate for you. Expect to pay $25 to $50 extra, sometimes more. Some states also charge an annual renewal fee for vanity plates, so check whether the fee is one-time or yearly.

Where to pay and how to order

You have three main options: visit a DMV office in person, order online through your state's DMV website, or mail in a form with a check. Which option is available depends on your state and whether you are doing a standard replacement or a specialty plate.

In-person at a DMV office: Bring your vehicle registration, proof of identity, and the fee in cash or card. The DMV will take your old plate (if you have it) and issue a new one on the spot or mail it to you within one to two weeks. Wait times vary; some offices are walk-in only, others take appointments.

Online: Many states let you order a standard replacement plate through their DMV website. You pay the fee by credit or debit card, and the plate arrives by mail in five to ten business days. Vanity plates usually cannot be ordered online; you have to visit an office or mail in a form.

By mail: read the form from your state's DMV website, fill it out, include a check for the fee, and mail it to the address on the form. Processing takes two to four weeks, and the plate arrives separately.

What happens to your old plate

If you are replacing a plate at a DMV office, the staff will usually take your old plate and destroy it. You do not need to keep it. If you ordered by mail or online, the instructions will tell you whether to keep the old plate, return it, or destroy it yourself. Some states let you keep a damaged plate as a souvenir if you ask.

If your old plate was lost or stolen, you do not need to do anything—just report it missing to the DMV when you order the replacement. If your plate was stolen and used in a crime, the DMV will note that in your file.

Temporary plates while you wait

If you ordered your plate by mail or online and need to drive before it arrives, ask the DMV whether they issue a temporary plate or registration document. Some states provide a temporary paper plate valid for 30 to 60 days. Others give you a document to carry in your car showing your registration is valid. Rules vary, so check with your state's DMV before you leave the office or submit your online order.

Temporary plates are usually issued at no extra cost when you submit your order. If you did not receive one and need to drive, contact the DMV to ask whether one can be mailed to you or picked up at an office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep my old license plate number when I change plates?

Yes, in most states. When you order a replacement, you can request to keep your current number. The DMV will transfer it to your new plate at no extra cost. If you want a completely different number, that is usually free too—the DMV assigns you one at random.

Do I have to change my plate if it is faded but still readable?

No. You only have to change it if it is damaged, unreadable, or missing. If it is faded but you can still read the letters and numbers, you can keep it. However, some states recommend replacing faded plates because police and cameras may have trouble reading them.

What if I move to a different state?

You will need new plates issued by your new state. Register your vehicle in that state first, then order plates through the new state's DMV. The fee is the new state's standard replacement cost. You do not need to return your old plates to your previous state.

Is there a fee to transfer my plate to a different vehicle?

It depends on your state. Some states let you transfer a plate to a new vehicle for free or a small fee ($5 to $10). Others require you to get a new plate for the new vehicle. Check your state's DMV website or call to find out.

How long does it take to get a new plate in the mail?

Standard mail delivery takes five to ten business days after the DMV processes your order. Vanity plates take longer, sometimes two to four weeks, because they are made to order. If you need a plate quickly, visit a DMV office in person—they may be able to issue one the same day or within a few days.