Turn in your old plate to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, or keep it if your state allows it

What you do with an old license plate depends on your state's rules. Most states require you to return plates when you renew, replace, or surrender your registration. Some states let you keep them as souvenirs. A few states have specific programs for recycling or donating old plates. The safest move is to contact your state's DMV directly—either online, by phone, or in person—and ask what they want you to do with yours.

Do not throw a license plate in the trash or leave it on an abandoned vehicle. Plates can be used fraudulently if they fall into the wrong hands, and some states fine you if you dispose of one improperly. Even if you think a plate is worthless, the state usually has a procedure for handling it.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states require you to return old plates to the DMV when you replace or renew your registration.
  • Some states allow you to keep old plates as keepsakes, but you must check your state's specific rules first.
  • Never discard a license plate in the trash—contact your DMV to learn the proper disposal or return method.
  • If you sell or donate a vehicle, the new owner typically handles the plate transfer or return, but confirm this with your DMV.
  • A few states run plate recycling programs or accept donations to schools and nonprofits.

Return plates to the DMV when you renew or replace your registration

When you renew your vehicle registration, your state usually sends you a new plate or a renewal sticker. If a new plate arrives, the old one should be returned. The DMV will tell you how: some accept plates by mail in a prepaid envelope, some require you to drop them off in person at an office, and some let you hand them to an agent during your renewal appointment.

If you replace a plate because it is damaged, stolen, or lost, you will receive a new one. Ask the DMV agent at the time of replacement what to do with the old plate. If it was damaged, they may take it from you on the spot. If it was lost or stolen, you typically do not have an old plate to return—just report the loss to the DMV.

Check whether your state lets you keep old plates as keepsakes

A growing number of states allow drivers to keep plates that are no longer in use, especially plates with memorable numbers or from vehicles they owned for many years. However, the rules vary widely. Some states let you keep any retired plate. Others only allow it if the plate is more than a certain age—often 20 or 30 years old. A few states do not allow it at all.

Before you keep an old plate, contact your DMV and ask if it is permitted in your state. If it is, ask whether you need written permission or if you can straightforward retain it. If you keep a plate without permission, you could face a fine. If you want to display it on a wall or in a collection, make sure it is clearly not attached to a vehicle in a way that could be mistaken for active registration.

Donate or recycle plates through state programs

Some states have formal programs for old license plates. A few accept donations to schools, youth organizations, or nonprofits that use them for art projects, educational displays, or fundraising. Other states partner with recycling facilities to process old plates for their metal and plastic content.

Check your state's DMV website or call their main office to ask if a donation or recycling program exists. If one does, they will tell you where to send the plate and whether you need to fill out any paperwork. These programs are not available in every state, but if yours has one, it is a good way to keep a plate out of the landfill.

Handle plates correctly if you sell or donate your vehicle

When you sell a car, the buyer will register it in their name and receive new plates. You are responsible for removing your old plates before you hand over the vehicle. Some states require you to return them to the DMV; others let the new owner do it. Check your state's rules so you know what to do before the sale closes.

If you donate a vehicle to a charity, the organization usually handles the plate transfer or return as part of the donation process. Still, ask the charity what they need from you. Some want you to remove the plates yourself; others will do it. Get written confirmation of what you are supposed to do so there is no confusion later.

Do not discard plates in the trash or leave them on vehicles

License plates contain identifying information and can be misused if they are found by someone with bad intent. Leaving a plate on an abandoned vehicle or throwing it away creates a security risk and may violate state law. Some states impose fines for improper disposal of a plate.

If a plate is damaged beyond use, bent, faded, or unreadable, the DMV can issue a replacement. Bring the old plate with you or ask how to return it. If you cannot locate an old plate, report it to the DMV as lost or damaged. Never assume it is okay to throw away—always ask the DMV first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep my old license plate if I still own the vehicle?

No. If the vehicle is still registered and in use, the plate must remain on it or be returned to the DMV. You can only keep a plate once it is no longer tied to active registration. Check your state's rules about keeping retired plates before you remove one from a vehicle.

What if I lost my old plate and cannot return it?

Contact your DMV and report it as lost. They will note it in your record. You do not owe a replacement plate if the original is gone. Some states charge a small fee for a lost plate report, but most do not. Ask the DMV whether you need to file a formal report or if a phone call is enough.

Can I sell my old license plate online?

In most states, no. License plates are the property of the state, not the driver, and selling them is illegal. Even plates with memorable numbers or from historic vehicles cannot be sold. If you want to keep a plate, ask your DMV if you are allowed to retain it for personal use.

Do I need to return plates if I move to another state?

Yes. When you register your vehicle in a new state, you will receive new plates from that state. Return the old plates to your previous state's DMV according to their instructions. Some states accept plates by mail; others require in-person drop-off. Check the old state's DMV website for their return process.

What happens if I ignore a plate and never return it?

Depending on your state, you could face a fine or a hold on your vehicle registration renewal. Some states do not actively pursue unreturned plates, but others track them. The safest approach is to follow your state's return procedure when you are told to do so.