Report the theft to your local police department first, then notify your state's motor vehicle agency

When you discover your license plate is missing, file a police report before you do anything else. Call the non-emergency line for your local police department or visit the station in person—do not wait for an emergency to pass. The police report creates an official record that protects you if someone uses your plate to commit a traffic violation or crime. You will need the report number for your next step: notifying your state's motor vehicle agency (called the DMV, RMV, Secretary of State, or similar depending on your state).

After you have the police report, contact your state motor vehicle agency to report the plate stolen. This step prevents someone from using your plate number fraudulently and alerts the state that the plate is no longer valid. Most states let you report this online, by phone, or in person. You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN), current registration, and the police report number.

Key Takeaways

  • File a police report with your local department first—this creates the official record you need for your state motor vehicle agency.
  • Contact your state's motor vehicle agency (DMV or equivalent) within a few days to report the plate stolen and request a replacement.
  • Bring your vehicle registration, VIN, and police report number when you report to your state agency.
  • You will need to pay a replacement plate fee, which varies by state but typically ranges from $5 to $30.
  • Keep copies of both the police report and the state's confirmation that the plate was reported stolen in case questions arise later.

What to bring when you file the police report

Bring your vehicle registration and a photo of your vehicle if you have one showing where the plate was mounted. The police will ask you when you last saw the plate, where your vehicle was parked, and whether you noticed any other damage. Be specific about the date and location—this helps the police log the report accurately.

If you do not have your registration with you, bring your VIN instead. You can find the VIN on your insurance card, vehicle title, or on a sticker inside the driver's side door jamb. The police need this to match the plate to your vehicle in their system.

Contact your state motor vehicle agency to report the plate stolen

Once you have the police report number, reach out to your state's motor vehicle agency. Most states have an online form or a phone line dedicated to reporting stolen plates. Search "[your state] report stolen license plate" to find the exact contact method for your state.

When you contact them, have ready: your vehicle registration number, your VIN, the police report number, and the plate number if you remember it. The agency will flag the plate in their system so it cannot be used fraudulently. They will also tell you whether you need to order a replacement plate when ready or whether you can drive without one temporarily while the replacement is being made.

Order your replacement plate

Your state motor vehicle agency will either issue a replacement plate during the same call or direct you to order one online or by mail. Most states charge a replacement fee—typically $5 to $30 depending on the state and plate type. Some states waive the fee if you report the theft within a certain timeframe, so ask when you call.

Replacement plates usually arrive by mail within one to three weeks. In the meantime, some states issue a temporary plate number you can use, while others allow you to drive without a rear plate for a short period. Ask your state agency what the rules are for your situation so you do not get stopped by police.

What to do if someone uses your stolen plate

If you discover that your stolen plate was used in a traffic violation or crime, contact the police department that issued the original theft report and give them the new information. Bring documentation showing that you reported the plate stolen before the violation occurred. This protects you from liability for tickets or fines issued under your plate number.

If you receive a ticket or notice in the mail for a violation you did not commit, respond when ready with a copy of your police report and the state's confirmation that the plate was stolen. Include a letter explaining that the plate was reported stolen on [date] and that you are not responsible for violations that occurred after that date. Most jurisdictions will dismiss the ticket once they verify the theft report.

Keep records of everything

Save copies of your police report, the police report number, and any confirmation from your state motor vehicle agency that the plate was reported stolen. Take a photo of your replacement plate once it arrives. Store these documents together in a safe place—you may need them if questions arise about violations or if someone tries to use your old plate number later.

If your vehicle is financed or leased, you may also want to notify your lender or leasing company that the plate was stolen, especially if the theft occurred while the vehicle was parked at your home or workplace. This creates an additional record in case there are insurance questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive my car without a license plate while I wait for the replacement?

This depends on your state. Some states issue a temporary plate or permit you to drive without a rear plate for a limited time after reporting a theft. Others require you to have a plate at all times. Contact your state motor vehicle agency to find out the rules for your state before you drive.

Do I have to pay for the replacement plate?

Most states charge a replacement fee of $5 to $30. Some states waive the fee if you report the theft within 30 days. Ask when you contact your state motor vehicle agency whether a fee applies and whether any exemptions are available.

What if I cannot remember my plate number?

You do not need to remember it. Your vehicle registration and VIN are enough for the police and your state motor vehicle agency to identify the plate. They can look up the plate number in their system using your vehicle information.

How long does it take to get a replacement plate?

Replacement plates typically arrive by mail within one to three weeks, depending on your state. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee. Ask your state motor vehicle agency about timing and expedited options when you order.

What if I get a ticket for a violation that happened after my plate was stolen?

Respond to the ticket with a copy of your police report and proof that you reported the plate stolen before the violation date. Include a letter explaining the situation. Most jurisdictions will dismiss the ticket once they verify the theft report and confirm the violation occurred after the reported theft date.