Where to take old license plates

Most states require you to return old license plates to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or a local branch office rather than throw them in the trash. The exact process depends on your state, but the DMV is almost always the right place to start. Some states let you mail plates in; others require you to drop them off in person.

A few states allow you to dispose of plates at a scrap metal recycler or auto parts store, but only after you have confirmed with your DMV that this is permitted where you live. Calling your state's DMV before you act saves you a wasted trip. You can find your state DMV's phone number and website by searching "[your state] DMV" online.

Key Takeaways

  • Contact your state's DMV first to learn whether you must return plates in person, by mail, or if a scrap metal recycler is an option.
  • Remove plates from your vehicle before trading it in, selling it privately, or scrapping it, because the new owner or dealer is not responsible for returning them.
  • Some states charge a small fee to process returned plates; others do not, so ask when you call.
  • Keep any receipt or confirmation number the DMV gives you in case questions arise about the plates later.

When you must return plates before selling or trading your car

If you are selling your vehicle privately or trading it in to a dealer, you are responsible for removing the plates before the transaction closes. The new owner cannot legally use your old plates, and you remain liable for any violations or parking tickets issued to those plates after you no longer own the vehicle.

Remove the plates yourself using a screwdriver or socket wrench—most bolt on with two fasteners per plate. Once removed, contact your DMV to report that you no longer own the vehicle and ask what to do with the plates. Some states will cancel the registration automatically once you report the sale; others require you to return the plates first.

Returning plates by mail

Many states offer mail-in return for license plates. You typically place the plates in a padded envelope or box, include any paperwork the DMV specifies (often a form you can read from their website), and send it to the address listed on the DMV's instructions. Delivery usually takes one to two weeks.

Before mailing, photograph both sides of each plate and keep the photos until you receive confirmation that the DMV received them. This protects you if a plate is lost in transit. Some states provide a prepaid shipping label or envelope; others do not. Check your state's DMV website or call to confirm what they require and whether they cover postage.

Returning plates in person at a DMV office

If your state requires in-person return, visit any DMV branch office during business hours with your plates and a valid ID. Bring your vehicle registration or title if you have it, though most offices only need the plates themselves. The process takes a few minutes.

Some DMV offices are busier than others, so calling ahead to ask about wait times can save you a long visit. A few states let you drop plates off at a kiosk without waiting to see a clerk, which is faster if your location offers it. Ask when you call whether your local office has this option.

Scrap metal recyclers and auto parts stores

In states where the DMV allows it, you can take plates to a licensed scrap metal recycler or some auto parts retailers. These businesses can melt down the metal and recycle it. However, do not assume your state allows this—call your DMV first, because some states prohibit it entirely or require you to remove the registration sticker and destroy it before recycling.

If your DMV confirms recycling is allowed, ask the recycler or store whether they charge a fee. Most do not, but some may ask for a small amount. Bring your plates and ask for a receipt showing you dropped them off, in case the DMV later asks for proof of disposal.

Removing registration stickers and protecting your information

Before returning or recycling a plate, peel off the registration sticker (the small colored decal showing the expiration year). Some states require you to destroy this sticker; others do not care. Your DMV's instructions will say whether removal is necessary.

License plates contain no personal information beyond your state and plate number, which are already public. However, if you are concerned about privacy, you can scratch or deface the plate before returning it. This does not affect the recycling process and ensures no one can use the plate number to look up information about you.

What happens if you keep old plates or throw them away

Keeping old plates is not illegal in most states, but it is not useful either—they cannot be reused on another vehicle without re-registering. Throwing plates in household trash is discouraged because they take up space in landfills and the metal could be recycled instead.

If you move to a new state and leave plates behind, contact your old state's DMV to report that you no longer live there. This closes your registration and prevents confusion if the plates are later found or misused. Most states will not pursue you for abandoned plates, but reporting the vehicle sale or move is the cleaner approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to return plates if I'm scrapping my car?

Yes. Remove the plates before you take the vehicle to a scrap yard. The scrap yard will not do this for you, and you remain liable for the plates until the DMV is notified. Call your DMV to ask whether to return the plates first or report the vehicle scrapped first—the order varies by state.

What if I lost one of my old plates?

Contact your DMV and explain that one plate is missing. You can return the remaining plate, and the DMV will note in their system that the other is lost. You are not usually charged a fee for a lost plate, but call to confirm your state's policy.

Can I keep a plate as a souvenir?

Most states do not allow this. Plates are considered state property and must be returned. A few states may make exceptions for vanity plates or plates with historical significance, but you must ask your DMV in advance. Do not assume it is permitted.

Is there a fee to return license plates?

Most states do not charge a fee to return plates. However, a small number charge $1 to $5 to process the return. Call your DMV to ask whether your state charges before you go in or mail them.

What if my state's DMV website doesn't say how to return plates?

Call the DMV directly. Their phone line can tell you the process for your specific state in minutes. Have your vehicle registration or plate number ready when you call, though most DMVs do not need it just to answer this question.