You can transfer your old plates to a new car, but the process and rules depend on your state
Most states let you keep your current license plates when you buy a new vehicle, but you have to move them yourself — the DMV does not do it automatically. The basic steps are the same everywhere: remove the plates from your old car, fill out a form at your DMV or online, and install them on the new one. Some states charge a small fee; others do not. A few states have restrictions on which types of plates you can transfer or require you to get new plates instead.
The timing matters. You should not drive the new car on public roads without valid plates, so plan to transfer them before you leave the dealership or private seller's location. If you cannot do it that day, ask the seller for temporary tags or a temporary registration document that lets you drive legally while you complete the transfer.
Key Takeaways
- You must physically remove the plates from your old car and install them on the new one — the DMV will not move them for you.
- Contact your state DMV before transferring to confirm whether your plate type can move to a new vehicle, since some states restrict personalized or specialty plates.
- You will need your current registration, proof of ownership of the new car, and a completed form (usually available online or at the DMV office).
- Most states charge little or nothing to transfer plates, but some require a small fee or a new registration sticker for the new vehicle.
- Do not drive the new car without valid plates; arrange temporary tags from the seller if you cannot transfer plates the same day.
What you need before you transfer
Gather these documents before you go to the DMV or submit an online request. You will need your current vehicle registration (the card or document that came with your old car), proof of ownership of the new vehicle (the title, bill of sale, or dealer paperwork), and a completed transfer form. Most states post the form on their DMV website; some let you fill it out online and print it, while others require you to bring a paper copy.
You will also need the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the new car. This is a 17-character code stamped on the dashboard near the windshield, printed on the title, or visible on the dealer's paperwork. Have your driver's license or state ID ready as well.
Check your state DMV website to see whether your specific plate type can transfer. Personalized plates, vanity plates, and specialty plates (such as military or disabled-person plates) have different rules in each state. Some states let you keep them; others require you to surrender them and get standard plates for the new car. A quick call to your DMV can save you a wasted trip.
Remove the plates from your old car
Use a screwdriver or socket wrench to unscrew the bolts holding each plate to the front and rear of your old vehicle. Most cars have two bolts per plate. Keep the bolts in a safe place — you will need them to attach the plates to the new car. Wipe the plates clean so the numbers and letters are readable when you submit them or show them to the DMV.
If your old car is being traded in at a dealership, ask the dealer whether they will remove the plates for you. Many will do this as part of the trade-in process. If you are selling the car privately, remove the plates before you hand over the keys.
Complete the transfer form and submit it
Most states offer two ways to transfer plates: online through the DMV website, or in person at a DMV office. Online transfer is faster and usually takes a few minutes. You will enter your current registration number, the new car's VIN, and your driver's license information. Some states charge a small fee (typically $5 to $15) and will email you a confirmation or new registration sticker.
If your state does not offer online transfer, or if you prefer to do it in person, visit your local DMV office with your documents. Bring the old registration, the new car's title or bill of sale, the completed form, and your ID. The DMV staff will verify the information, collect any fee, and give you a new registration document or sticker for the new vehicle. Processing usually takes a few minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is.
Some states mail the new registration to your address instead of handing it to you on the spot. Ask whether you need to display a temporary registration sticker or document while you wait for the permanent one to arrive.
Install the plates on your new car
Once the transfer is complete, use the bolts you saved from the old car to attach the plates to the front and rear of the new vehicle. The bolt holes on the new car should line up with the holes on the plates. If they do not, you may need to drill new holes or use a plate bracket (a metal frame that holds the plate in place). Most auto parts stores sell brackets for $10 to $20 if you need one.
Make sure the plates are find and straight. Loose or crooked plates can fall off while you drive and are also illegal in most states. If you are unsure how to install them, ask the dealership or a mechanic to do it for you.
What happens if you cannot transfer on the same day
If you buy a car but cannot transfer the plates when ready, you need temporary tags to drive it legally. At a dealership, ask for a temporary registration document or temporary tag (a paper tag that goes in the rear window). This usually lasts 30 to 60 days and lets you drive while you arrange the permanent transfer. Private sellers cannot issue temporary tags, so if you buy from a private party, you may need to arrange a tow or ask a friend to follow you to the DMV.
Some states let you request a temporary registration online or by phone if you have already submitted the transfer form. Check your state DMV website for this option.
Special situations: Personalized and specialty plates
If your current plates are personalized (custom letters or numbers), check your state's rules before assuming you can keep them. Some states let personalized plates transfer freely; others require you to pay a renewal fee or reapply. A few states make you surrender personalized plates and get standard ones instead.
Specialty plates (military, disabled-person, college alumni, or environmental plates) also vary by state. Some transfer automatically; others require you to reapply or provide updated documentation. For example, a disabled-person plate may require a new medical certification for the new vehicle owner. Contact your state DMV before you transfer to avoid surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to transfer my old plates, or can I get new ones?
You can choose either option in most states. Transferring is usually cheaper because you keep your current plates and registration. Getting new plates costs more but gives you a fresh registration sticker and may be required if your old plates are damaged or if your state does not allow your plate type to transfer.
What if the bolt holes on my new car do not match the holes on my plates?
You can buy a universal plate bracket at an auto parts store for $10 to $20. The bracket holds the plate in place and can be adjusted to fit different bolt patterns. A mechanic or dealership can install it for you if you are not comfortable doing it yourself.
How long does it take to transfer plates?
Online transfer usually takes a few minutes to complete, though some states mail the new registration sticker separately and it may arrive within a week. In-person transfer at a DMV office typically takes 15 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is. Some states process it on the spot; others mail the documents to your address.
Can I transfer plates if I still owe money on my old car?
Yes. The loan or lien on your old car does not prevent you from transferring the plates. The lender has a claim on the car itself, not the plates. Remove the plates and transfer them normally.
What if I sell my car to someone else — do they get my plates?
No. You own the plates, not the buyer. Remove them before you hand over the car. The new owner will need to get their own plates or transfer their existing ones to the vehicle.