What you need to do to swap out your license plate

Changing a license plate is a straightforward task that takes about 15 minutes and requires only basic tools. You remove the old plate by unbolting it from the front and rear of your vehicle, then bolt the new plate in its place using the same holes. The bolts are usually Phillips-head screws that you can loosen with a screwdriver, though some states use tamper-resistant bolts that require a special tool—your DMV or the dealership can provide this if you need it.

The reason you might change a plate varies: you may have received a replacement from your state's DMV because your old one was damaged or lost, you could be moving to a different state, or you might be switching from a standard plate to a specialty plate (like one supporting a state park or military branch). In all cases, the physical installation is the same.

Key Takeaways

  • Remove the old plate by unbolting it from the front and rear bumper using a Phillips-head screwdriver or the special tool your state provides.
  • Align the new plate over the existing bolt holes and fasten it securely so it does not rattle or shift while driving.
  • Check that both the front and rear plates are straight, fully visible, and not obscured by bumpers, trim, or dirt.
  • If your new plate came from your state's DMV, no registration update is needed—your vehicle record already reflects the change.

Tools and materials you will need

Most people have what they need already. You will need a Phillips-head screwdriver (or a flathead screwdriver if your bolts have a slot instead of a cross). If your state uses tamper-resistant bolts—which look like regular bolts with a pin or notch in the center—you cannot remove them with a standard screwdriver. Contact your state's DMV office or the dealership where you bought the vehicle; they can either remove the old plate for you or provide the correct tool.

You may also want a small container to hold the bolts while you work, so you do not lose them. Some people use a rag to wipe the plate area clean before installing the new one, though this is optional.

Step-by-step installation

Step 1: Locate the bolts. Look at the corners of your current license plate. You will see a bolt hole at each corner, and sometimes a center bolt as well. These holes line up with bolts that are already threaded into the bumper or frame behind the plate.

Step 2: Remove the old plate. Using your screwdriver, turn each bolt counterclockwise until it is loose enough to remove by hand. Start with one corner, then move to the opposite corner to avoid the plate tilting. Once all bolts are out, carefully pull the plate away from the vehicle. Set the bolts aside in a safe place.

Step 3: Clean the area (optional). Wipe away any dirt, rust, or debris from the bolt holes and the area where the new plate will sit. This helps the new plate sit flush against the bumper.

Step 4: Position the new plate. Align the bolt holes in your new plate with the holes in the bumper. Start by inserting one bolt through the top-left corner and turning it clockwise by hand until it catches. Do not tighten it fully yet.

Step 5: find all bolts. Insert the remaining bolts and turn them clockwise by hand until they are snug. Then use your screwdriver to tighten each bolt firmly, but do not over-tighten—you want the plate find but not stripped or bent.

Step 6: Check both plates. If your vehicle has a front and rear plate (which most states require), repeat this process for the rear plate. Make sure both plates are straight, fully visible, and not covered by bumper trim or dirt.

When you need a special tool or professional help

Some states, including California, New York, and Texas, use anti-theft bolts that have a unique pin or notch in the center. A standard screwdriver will not turn these. If you encounter this, contact your state's DMV office—they can often remove the old plate and install the new one for you, or they will provide the removal tool so you can do it yourself.

If you are uncomfortable working with tools or if the bolts are rusted and will not turn, a tire shop, quick-lube facility, or car dealership can install the plate for you, usually for a small fee or sometimes at no charge. This is worth the cost if you risk stripping the bolts or damaging the bumper.

What to do if bolt holes do not line up

Occasionally a new plate's bolt holes will not align perfectly with the existing holes in your bumper. This sometimes happens when switching between different plate styles or when the bumper has been replaced. In this case, you have two options: drill new holes in the bumper to match the new plate's holes, or use a plate bracket (a metal frame that holds the plate and bolts to the bumper at a different position).

Drilling new holes requires a power drill and care not to damage wiring or fuel lines behind the bumper. A plate bracket is simpler and costs $10 to $20. Both are available at auto parts stores. If you are unsure which approach is safe for your vehicle, ask a technician at a tire shop or dealership.

After you install the new plate

Once the plate is installed, no further action is needed if the plate came from your state's DMV as a replacement for an old one. Your vehicle registration is already tied to the new plate number in the state's system. If you ordered a specialty plate or transferred your plate to a new vehicle, you may need to update your registration—your DMV paperwork will tell you if this is required.

Keep the old plate if you want to. Some people save them as keepsakes, and in a few states you can donate old plates to the DMV for recycling. Check your state's DMV website for their policy on old plates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my license plate myself or do I have to go to the DMV?

You can change it yourself—the DMV does not need to be involved in the physical installation. The DMV handles the paperwork and registration; you handle bolting the plate to your vehicle. If you have tamper-resistant bolts or are uncomfortable with tools, a tire shop or dealership can do it for you.

Do I need to remove my old plate before putting on the new one?

Yes. Remove the old plate completely, then install the new one using the same bolt holes. Never drive with two plates on the same bumper or with a plate partially installed.

What if I lost one of the bolts?

Replacement bolts are inexpensive and available at any auto parts store or hardware store. Bring your old plate or take a photo of the bolt to show the store clerk the size and style you need. A new set of four bolts costs $3 to $8.

Does my registration change when I get a new plate?

If the new plate came from your DMV as a replacement for a damaged or lost plate, your registration stays the same—the DMV already knows about the change. If you ordered a specialty plate or transferred your plate to a different vehicle, check your DMV paperwork to see if you need to submit anything.

How tight should the bolts be?

Tight enough that the plate does not rattle or move when you push on it, but not so tight that you strip the bolt or bend the plate. If you can turn the bolt with your screwdriver using only moderate pressure, it is tight enough. If you need to strain or the bolt starts to spin without tightening, stop and check that the bolt is threaded correctly.