When you purchase a new vehicle, there is an exciting period of learning and understanding the ins and outs of your new ride. One of the first questions many people have is if they can use their old license plate on the new car. The answer is yes, but there are a few essential things you need to know before making the switch. To transfer your license plate to a new vehicle, you’ll need to make sure it meets the requirements of your state. You’ll also need to understand the registration and title process, as well as the fees associated with the transfer. Knowing what you need to do and what documents to submit can help make transferring your license plate to your new car a breeze. Keep reading for what you need to know about transferring your license plate to a new car.
Can I Use My Old License Plate On My New Car?
If your old license plate is still in good condition and meets the requirements of the new plate law, you can use it on your new car. You will need to take it to a DMV office and have them make a copy. You will then need to attach the copy to the front of your car.
What Is A License Plate Transfer?
A license plate transfer is when you transfer your old license plate to your new vehicle. If you purchase a new car with a valid license plate, you can transfer it to the new one. If you don’t have a license plate, you can purchase a new one and transfer it. If you have a personalized plate, you cannot transfer it from one vehicle to another. You’ll need to re-apply for a new personalized plate. You cannot transfer your license plate if you’re in one of the following situations: Your vehicle has been declared a lemon by your state’s lemon law, If the vehicle is a gift from a family member, If you’re declaring a car totaled or stolen.
Requirements Of A License Plate Transfer
- The vehicle must be registered in your name.
- The vehicle must be insured.
- The vehicle must have a valid license plate.
- The vehicle must not violate any traffic laws.
- The vehicle must not be stolen or in need of repair that would prevent it from being driven.
- You must be the registered owner of the vehicle and present proof of ownership at the time of the license plate transfer.
- You cannot transfer a license plate to a car that you do not own or is not currently registered in your name.
- You cannot transfer a license plate to a car that is being used for business purposes or has been rented out for business purposes.
- You cannot transfer a license plate to a car used for racing, driving lessons, or events sponsored by racing organizations or driving schools.
- You cannot transfer a license plate if you are in one of the following situations: Your vehicle has been declared a lemon by your state’s lemon law, If the vehicle is a gift from a family member, If you’re declaring a car totaled or stolen.
Fees Associated With A License Plate Transfer
- There is a $5 fee for each license plate transferred.
- You must present your old license, proof of ownership (such as a bill of sale), and the new plate to the DMV office.
- The DMV will make a copy of the license plate and attach it to the front of your car.
- You are responsible for any fees associated with registering your new car, such as emissions testing.
- You can only transfer your license plate once.
- You cannot transfer your license plate if you’re in one of the following situations: Your vehicle has been declared a lemon by your state’s lemon law, If the vehicle is a gift from a family member, If you’re declaring a car totaled or stolen.
- You must change your registration address if you move within your state.
- You must change your name if you change your address.
Documents Needed For A License Plate Transfer
- Your old license plate
- A copy of your driver’s license
- Proof of insurance
- Proof of registration (vehicle title, registration card, or bill of sale)
- A valid photo ID
- The vehicle’s current registration sticker
- The vehicle’s title certificate
- The vehicle’s proof of purchase (if you purchased the car)
- A check or money order for the transfer fee
- Your original signed application form.
Steps To Transferring Your License Plate
- Get your old license plate.
- Go to a DMV office and have them make a copy of the plate.
- Attach the copy to the front of your car.
- Purchase a new license plate if you don’t have one.
- Drive your new car with the new license plate.
- When you’re ready to transfer your plate, go to a DMV office and have them cancel the old plate and issue you a new one.
- Repeat steps 2-6 for any additional vehicles you own.
- Keep your old plates safe when you need to transfer them.
- If you ever have to get a new license plate, you’ll need to repeat steps 2-6.
- Make sure to register your vehicle with the state.
Summary
A license plate transfer is when you transfer your old license plate to your new vehicle. The vehicle must be the model year 1982 or newer. The vehicle must be registered in your name. There are fees to transfer your plate from one vehicle to another. You’ll need a valid title, insurance, and license plate. Make sure you have the vehicle identification number, the odometer reading, a statement indicating you’re transferring the license plate to another vehicle, and provide all of the information on the vehicle title. When you’re ready to transfer your license plate from one vehicle to another, make sure you have everything you need to complete the transaction.
