Where to take old license plates

The safest way to dispose of a license plate is to return it to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. Most states accept plates at any DMV office during regular business hours, and the process takes just a few minutes. You do not need an appointment, and there is no fee.

If you cannot visit in person, many states allow you to mail plates to the DMV. Check your state's DMV website for the mailing address and any specific instructions — some states want plates in an envelope, others ask you to include a form. The cost is usually just postage.

A second option is your local police department or sheriff's office. Some departments have a drop box or desk where you can leave plates without filing paperwork. Call ahead to confirm they accept plates and their hours, since not all departments participate.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's DMV is the official place to return license plates, and the service is free whether you go in person or mail them.
  • Some police departments and sheriff's offices also accept plates, though you should call first to confirm they have a drop-off option.
  • Do not throw plates in the trash or recycling bin — they contain metal and reflective material that does not belong in curbside collection.
  • If you are selling or trading in a vehicle, the dealership or buyer may handle plate return as part of the paperwork.
  • Defacing or destroying a plate before return is unnecessary; the DMV will handle disposal once you turn it in.

Why you should not throw plates away

License plates contain aluminum and reflective sheeting that should not go into household trash or curbside recycling. Reflective material can damage sorting equipment at recycling facilities, and plates are not accepted by most municipal programs. Throwing them away also leaves your plate number in circulation, which creates a small security risk if someone finds it.

Burning or burying plates is not safe and is illegal in most states. The reflective coating releases fumes when heated, and buried metal can leach into soil. The DMV exists partly to track and retire plates properly, so using their service protects both the environment and your privacy.

What to do if you are selling or trading your vehicle

If you are selling a car privately, you are responsible for returning the plates to your DMV before the sale is final. Some states require you to remove them before handing over the keys; others let the new owner keep them if they register the vehicle in your state. Check your state's rules on the DMV website.

When you trade in a vehicle at a dealership, the dealer usually handles plate return as part of the paperwork. Ask the salesperson to confirm they will submit the plates, and keep a copy of any paperwork that shows you returned them. This protects you if the plates are later used illegally.

Removing plates before you go to the DMV

You can remove plates yourself using a screwdriver or drill before taking them to the DMV — there is no rule against it. Most plates are held by two or four bolts that take less than a minute to remove. You do not need to deface or damage the plate; just unscrew it and bring it in as-is.

If you want to keep a plate as a souvenir, some states allow you to request a retention plate or keepsake plate before you turn in the original. This is a special non-functional version you can display at home. The process and cost vary by state, so ask at the DMV if you are interested.

Timing and what to bring

You can return plates at any time — there is no important date. However, if you have sold the vehicle or it is no longer registered, return the plates as soon as possible to avoid any confusion if the plates are misused. Bring the plates themselves and your driver's license or ID. You do not need the vehicle registration or title.

If you are mailing plates, include a note with your name, address, and vehicle identification number (VIN) if you have it. Some states provide a form on their website; others just ask for a letter. Check the DMV website for your state to see if a form is required before you mail anything.

Special cases: Vanity plates and personalized plates

Vanity plates and personalized plates are returned the same way as standard plates. If you paid extra for a vanity plate and want to keep the number for a future vehicle, ask the DMV whether you can reserve it. Some states hold vanity numbers for a set period after return; others retire them when ready. The rules and any fees vary widely.

If you are moving to another state, you cannot transfer a plate to your new state's registration. Return it to your old state's DMV, then register your vehicle in the new state and receive new plates there.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I throw license plates in the recycling bin?

No. License plates contain reflective material that damages sorting equipment at recycling facilities. They must be returned to the DMV or a police department instead. Curbside recycling programs do not accept them.

What if I lost my license plates?

Report the loss to your DMV and request replacement plates. You will pay a small fee (usually $5 to $15) and receive new plates in the mail within one to three weeks. You do not need to return the lost plates since they are gone.

Do I have to remove the plate bolts before returning them?

No. You can return plates with the bolts still attached, or remove them yourself — the DMV accepts both. Removing them takes a minute with a screwdriver and makes the plates easier to carry, but it is not required.

Can I keep my old license plate as a decoration?

Yes, but only if you request a keepsake or retention plate from your DMV before you turn in the original. A keepsake plate is a non-functional copy you can display. Not all states offer this, and there may be a fee. Ask your DMV whether the option is available in your state.

What happens to license plates after the DMV gets them?

The DMV removes them from circulation and typically recycles the metal and materials. The reflective coating is separated and disposed of safely. Your plate number is retired and cannot be reused unless you request a retention plate.