Where to turn in your old plate

When you no longer need a license plate — because you sold your car, moved out of state, or switched to a different vehicle — you can return it to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Most states let you mail it back or drop it off in person at a DMV office. Some states don't require you to return plates at all, though returning them can sometimes lower your registration fees or prevent confusion if the plate is later misused.

The process is straightforward: contact your state DMV directly to ask whether they accept returns and what form that takes in your state. You'll find the DMV's mailing address or office locations on your state's official DMV website. A few states run their motor vehicle services under different names — for example, the Department of Licensing in Washington or the Registry of Motor Vehicles in Massachusetts — so search for your state's specific agency name.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states accept license plate returns by mail or in-person drop-off at a DMV office, though requirements vary by state.
  • Some states do not require plate returns at all, but returning them can prevent the plate from being misused after you sell your vehicle.
  • Contact your state DMV before returning a plate to confirm the correct mailing address or office location and whether you need to include any paperwork.
  • If you want to keep a plate as a souvenir, some states allow you to request a replacement plate for your vehicle instead of returning the original.

Returning plates by mail

Mailing back a plate is usually the easiest option if you don't have a DMV office nearby. Remove the plate from your vehicle using a screwdriver or socket wrench — most plates are held on with two bolts, one in each corner. Place the plate in a padded envelope or small box to protect it during shipping, then send it to the address your state DMV provides. Some states ask you to include a form or letter explaining why you're returning it; others straightforward want the plate itself.

Use regular mail or a tracked service like USPS Priority Mail or UPS, depending on your preference. Tracked mail gives you proof of delivery if the DMV later questions whether you returned the plate. Keep your receipt or tracking number until you receive confirmation from the DMV that the plate arrived. This step protects you if someone uses the plate illegally after you've sold the vehicle — your records show you returned it on a specific date.

Dropping off plates in person

If you prefer to return a plate when ready, visit a DMV office in your state and hand it to a staff member. Bring your vehicle registration or title to confirm you own the vehicle the plate is registered to. The DMV will give you a receipt showing the date and time you returned the plate. This receipt is your proof that you no longer have responsibility for that plate.

In-person drop-off is especially useful if you're selling your car soon and want to clear the plate from your records right away. Some DMV offices have drop boxes outside their buildings where you can leave plates even when the office is closed, though you won't receive a receipt this way. Call ahead to ask whether your local office has a drop box and whether it's monitored.

What happens if you don't return a plate

In states that don't require returns, nothing happens — you straightforward keep the plate or dispose of it yourself. In states that do require returns, keeping a plate after you've sold the vehicle can create problems. If someone buys your old car and the plate is still registered to you, any traffic violations or parking tickets issued to that plate may be sent to your address. You could be held responsible for fines you didn't incur.

Additionally, if the new owner uses the plate illegally or commits a crime with it, law enforcement may trace it back to you. Returning the plate breaks that chain of responsibility and protects you from liability. If you've already sold your vehicle and didn't return the plate, contact your state DMV when ready to report it as no longer in your possession.

Keeping a plate as a souvenir

Some states allow you to keep a plate if you request a replacement plate for your vehicle instead. This option works if your car is still registered and you want a new plate number. You'll pay a replacement fee — usually between $5 and $20 — and the DMV will issue you a new plate while you keep the old one as a keepsake. Check your state's DMV website or call to ask whether this option is available and what the fee is.

If your state doesn't allow you to keep a plate, you can still dispose of it yourself by recycling it. License plates are made of aluminum and can be recycled at most scrap metal facilities. Call your local recycling center or waste management facility to ask whether they accept license plates. Some facilities may ask you to remove any stickers or reflective material first.

Plates from vehicles you no longer own

If you sold your vehicle but kept the plate, or if you inherited a vehicle with plates still attached, you should return those plates to the DMV. The person who now owns the vehicle may need to register it under a new plate, and having the old plate still in circulation can cause registration confusion. Bring proof that you no longer own the vehicle — such as a bill of sale or the title transfer document — when you return the plate.

If you can't locate the original plate or it's damaged beyond use, contact your state DMV to report it as lost or destroyed. You may need to fill out a form, but you won't be charged a fee in most cases. This report protects you if the plate is later found and used illegally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to return my license plate when I sell my car?

It depends on your state. Some states require plate returns; others don't. Even if your state doesn't require it, returning the plate prevents the new owner from using it without re-registering it, which can protect you from liability. Contact your state DMV to confirm the requirement.

What if I lost my license plate?

Report it to your state DMV as lost or destroyed. You'll likely fill out a form, and the DMV will note in their system that the plate is no longer valid. If you still own the vehicle, you can order a replacement plate for a fee, usually $5 to $20.

Can I keep my old plate as a decoration?

Some states allow you to keep a plate if you request a replacement plate for your vehicle and pay the replacement fee. Other states require all plates to be returned. Check your state DMV's website or call to ask whether keeping a plate is permitted.

How long does it take for the DMV to confirm they received my plate?

If you mail the plate, confirmation can take two to four weeks depending on mail delivery time and DMV processing speed. If you drop it off in person, you'll receive a receipt when ready. Keep your receipt or tracking number as proof until you hear back from the DMV.

What if someone uses my old plate after I sell my car?

If you returned the plate to the DMV, you have a receipt proving you no longer have it, which protects you from liability. If you didn't return it, contact the DMV when ready to report it as no longer in your possession. Report any tickets or violations issued to that plate to the DMV as well.