What you need to do to swap out old plates for new ones

Changing your license plates means removing the old ones from your vehicle and installing new ones in their place. The physical swap takes about five minutes with a screwdriver. What takes longer is getting the new plates themselves — you order them through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent), wait for them to arrive by mail, and then install them. The whole process from order to installation usually takes two to four weeks, depending on your state and whether you're replacing damaged plates, personalizing them, or just getting standard replacements.

You'll need your vehicle registration, proof of ownership, and a valid ID. Some states let you order plates online; others require you to visit an office in person. A few states mail new plates automatically when your registration renews, so check whether you actually need to order them separately.

Key Takeaways

  • Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to order replacement plates, either online, by mail, or in person — the method varies by state.
  • You will need your vehicle registration number, proof of ownership, and a valid ID to place an order.
  • Standard replacement plates arrive by mail in two to four weeks; expedited options exist in some states but cost extra.
  • Installation is a five-minute job with a screwdriver — remove the bolts holding the old plate, slide it off, and bolt the new one on.
  • Some states automatically send new plates when your registration renews, so confirm you actually need to order them before paying a fee.

Finding your state's plate ordering system

Each state runs its own motor vehicle department and has its own ordering process. Start by searching "[your state] DMV license plates" or "[your state] motor vehicle department." The official website will have a section for plate replacement or renewal.

Most states offer three ways to order: online through the DMV website, by mail using a form you read or request, or in person at a local DMV office. Online is fastest if your state offers it — you can usually complete the order in 10 minutes. By mail takes longer because the form has to travel both ways. In-person visits let you ask questions but require you to find an office near you and wait in line.

Write down your vehicle's registration number before you start — you'll need it to look up your account or fill out forms. If you don't have it, check your registration card, insurance documents, or the vehicle itself (it's printed on the dashboard near the windshield).

What information and documents you'll need

The standard documents are your vehicle registration, proof of ownership (usually the title or a recent registration renewal notice), and a valid photo ID. Some states also ask for proof of residency, which can be a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.

If you're ordering online, you may be able to upload these documents as images or PDFs. If you're ordering by mail, you'll typically photocopy them and send them with the form. In-person orders let you show originals, which is faster.

Have your payment method ready — most states charge a replacement plate fee that ranges from $5 to $30, depending on the state and plate type. Standard plates cost less than personalized or specialty plates. Some states accept credit cards online, while others require a check or money order by mail.

Ordering standard replacement plates versus specialty plates

A standard replacement plate is a regular plate with your state's design and your registration number. It costs the least and arrives fastest. Order this if your current plates are damaged, lost, or stolen, or if you straightforward want new ones.

A specialty or personalized plate has a custom design, your chosen letters and numbers, or a message. These cost more (typically $25 to $100 extra) and take longer to arrive because they're made to order. If you want a vanity plate with your initials or a phrase, you'll order it as a specialty plate and the DMV will check that your chosen combination isn't already taken.

If you're not sure which you want, order a standard replacement — you can always upgrade to a specialty plate later by placing a new order.

How long plates take to arrive and what to do while you wait

Standard plates arrive in two to four weeks by mail. Some states offer expedited shipping for an extra fee (usually $10 to $25), which cuts the time to five to ten business days. Check the DMV website to see if expedited service is available in your state before you order.

While you wait, your old plates are still valid — you don't need to remove them or do anything special. Keep your order confirmation email or receipt in case the plates don't arrive or you need to check the status. Most state DMV websites let you track your order by registration number or confirmation number.

If your plates don't arrive within the stated timeframe, contact the DMV directly. Plates occasionally get lost in the mail, and the DMV can reissue them or investigate the delay.

Installing your new plates yourself

Once your new plates arrive, installation is straightforward. You'll need a Phillips head screwdriver (or a power drill with a Phillips bit) and about five minutes.

First, locate the bolts holding your old plate. Most vehicles have two bolts per plate — one at the top and one at the bottom, or one on each side. Unscrew them completely and set them aside. Slide the old plate off and set it aside (you may need to return it to the DMV, depending on your state — check the paperwork that came with your new plates).

Align your new plate with the bolt holes and slide it on. Insert the bolts through the plate holes and into the threaded holes on the vehicle. Tighten them firmly but don't over-tighten — you want them snug enough that the plate won't rattle, but not so tight that you strip the threads. Repeat for the rear plate if you're replacing both.

If your vehicle has a plastic plate frame or bracket, you can reuse it with your new plates. If the old frame is damaged or doesn't fit the new plate, most auto parts stores sell universal frames for $5 to $15.

Returning old plates and handling damaged or lost plates

Some states require you to return your old plates to the DMV within a set time (usually 30 days). Your new plates will come with instructions that say whether this is required. If it is, you can mail them back or drop them off at a local DMV office.

If your plates are damaged — cracked, faded, or bent — you can order replacements without penalty. Just tell the DMV that you're replacing damaged plates when you order. Some states waive the replacement fee for damaged plates; others charge the standard fee. Check your state's policy on the DMV website.

If your plates are lost or stolen, report the loss to the DMV and your local police department. This protects you in case someone uses the plates on another vehicle. Then order replacements through the normal process. Some states charge a small fee for lost or stolen plates; others don't.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with my old plates while I wait for new ones?

Yes. Your old plates remain valid until you install the new ones. You don't need to remove them early or do anything special while waiting. Once your new plates arrive, you can install them at your convenience.

What if I ordered plates online but need to change the information?

Contact your state DMV when ready — most allow you to cancel or modify an order within a few days of placing it. If your order has already shipped, you may not be able to change it, but the DMV can tell you what options exist. Some states let you refuse delivery and reorder with corrected information.

Do I need to notify my insurance company when I change plates?

No. Your insurance is tied to your vehicle identification number (VIN), not your license plate. The plate number doesn't affect your coverage. You only need to notify your insurer if you change vehicles or move to a different state.

Can I install plates myself, or do I need a mechanic?

You can install them yourself — it's a five-minute job with a screwdriver. No special tools or training are needed. If you're uncomfortable doing it, any mechanic or auto parts store can install them for you, usually for free or a small fee.

What happens to my old plates after I return them?

The DMV recycles or destroys old plates. You don't get them back, and you shouldn't keep them — in most states, it's illegal to possess a plate that's no longer registered to your vehicle.