What you need to do to swap out your plates

Changing your license plates is a straightforward process that takes about 15 minutes if you have the right tools and paperwork. You'll need a screwdriver (usually Phillips head), your new plates, and proof that you own them — either a receipt from the DMV or a document showing the plates were transferred to you. The physical swap happens at your vehicle: remove the bolts holding the old plate, slide it off, line up the new plate, and bolt it down. Then you update your vehicle registration with your state's DMV to match the new plate number.

The reason you change plates varies — you may have ordered custom or vanity plates, moved to a new state, replaced damaged plates, or switched vehicle ownership. Each situation follows the same basic steps, though the paperwork before or after the swap differs. If you're unsure whether your new plates are already registered to you, contact your state DMV before you remove the old ones.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a screwdriver, your new plates, and proof of ownership (a DMV receipt or transfer document) before you start.
  • Remove the bolts from your old plate, slide it off, position the new plate, and find it with bolts — the whole swap takes about 15 minutes.
  • After you change the physical plates, contact your state DMV to update your vehicle registration with the new plate number.
  • If your new plates are custom or vanity plates, make sure they're already registered to your vehicle before you remove the old ones.
  • Some states require you to surrender old plates to the DMV; check your state's rules before throwing them away.

Gather your tools and paperwork before you start

Before you touch your vehicle, collect everything you'll need in one place. You need a screwdriver — usually Phillips head, though some vehicles use a different style. You also need your new plates themselves and proof that they belong to you. If you ordered them from the DMV, you'll have a receipt or confirmation letter. If someone transferred them to you, you'll have a transfer document or bill of sale.

Check your new plates for any damage or defects before you install them. If a plate is bent, cracked, or has faded lettering, contact the DMV to request a replacement before you remove your old plates. Once you've confirmed everything is in order, you're ready to proceed.

Remove the old plate and install the new one

Park your vehicle on a level surface where you have room to work. Locate the bolts holding your old plate — there are usually two, one at the top and one at the bottom, though some vehicles have four. Use your screwdriver to remove these bolts completely and set them aside in a safe place. Gently slide the old plate away from the vehicle.

Position your new plate in the same location, making sure it sits flat and level against the vehicle. Insert the bolts through the holes in the new plate and into the threaded holes on your vehicle. Tighten them firmly but do not overtighten — you want them snug enough that the plate won't move, but forcing them can strip the threads. If your vehicle has a front and rear plate, repeat this process for both.

Update your registration with the DMV

After you've physically installed the new plates, you need to notify your state's DMV that your vehicle registration now shows different plate numbers. The method varies by state. Some states allow you to update this online through their DMV website by logging into your account and entering the new plate number. Others require you to mail a form or visit a DMV office in person.

Contact your state DMV directly — by phone, website, or in person — to find out which method applies to you. Have your vehicle registration document and your new plate number ready when you call or visit. Updating your registration is important because it ensures that traffic tickets, toll notices, and other official documents reach you correctly.

What to do with your old plates

Rules about old plates vary by state. Some states require you to surrender old plates to the DMV within a set timeframe — usually 30 to 60 days. Others allow you to keep them or destroy them. A few states let you keep old plates as a keepsake if you request permission.

Check your state's DMV website or call them to learn what's required where you live. If surrender is required, the DMV will tell you whether to mail them in or bring them to a local office. If you're allowed to keep them, store them in a safe place — they have no value and cannot be used on any vehicle, but some people keep them for sentimental reasons.

Special situations: custom, vanity, and transferred plates

If you ordered custom or vanity plates, the DMV sends them to you with paperwork confirming they're registered to your vehicle. Before you remove your old plates, verify that your new plates show your vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the paperwork. This confirms the plates are already tied to your car in the system.

If someone transferred plates to you from their old vehicle, you'll have a transfer document. Make sure the transfer is complete and shows your name and vehicle information before you install the plates. If you're unsure, contact the DMV to confirm the transfer went through — installing plates that aren't yet registered to you can cause registration problems later.

When to call the DMV instead of doing it yourself

You can handle plate changes on your own in almost every case. However, contact your DMV if your new plates arrived damaged, if you're not sure the plates are registered to your vehicle, or if you don't have proof of ownership for the new plates. The DMV can verify registration status over the phone and can issue replacement plates if yours are defective.

If you're uncomfortable removing bolts or working under your vehicle, many DMV offices and auto service shops will swap plates for you — usually for a small fee or sometimes for free. This is especially useful if your vehicle's bolts are stuck or corroded and require extra force to remove.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive my car before I update the registration?

Technically, yes — the physical plates are what law enforcement sees. However, your registration should match your plates as soon as possible. If you're pulled over or receive a ticket, mismatched registration and plates can cause confusion. Update your registration within a few days of changing the plates.

What if the bolts on my old plate won't come off?

Bolts can corrode or seize, especially in areas with road salt. Try spraying the bolts with penetrating oil (like WD-40) and waiting 15 minutes before trying again. If they still won't budge, take your vehicle to an auto shop — they have tools to remove stuck bolts without damaging your vehicle.

Do I need to notify my insurance company about new plates?

No. Your insurance policy is tied to your vehicle's VIN, not your plate number. Changing plates does not affect your coverage. However, if you ordered vanity plates with a new design or message, there's no need to tell your insurer — the policy remains the same.

What happens if I lose one of my new plates?

Contact your state DMV when ready to report the lost plate. They will issue a replacement, usually for a small fee. Do not drive your vehicle with only one plate — most states require both front and rear plates. The DMV can tell you whether you can drive to their office to pick up a replacement or if you need to wait for it to arrive by mail.

Can I install my old plates on a different vehicle?

No. Plates are registered to a specific vehicle and VIN. Installing old plates on a different vehicle is illegal, even if you own both vehicles. Each vehicle needs its own registered plates. If you want to use old plates on a new vehicle, you'll need to transfer the registration through your DMV, which involves paperwork and fees.