Where to Return Your License Plates

When you no longer need a license plate — because you've sold your vehicle, let your registration lapse, or switched to a new plate — you can't just throw it in the trash. Most states require you to return plates to your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or a DMV-authorized office. Some states also accept plates at county tax collector offices or sheriff's departments.

The exact location depends on your state. Your state's DMV website will list the specific offices that accept plate returns in your area. If you're moving out of state, you can usually return plates by mail to your current state's DMV before you leave, or you can keep them if your state allows it — check your state's rules first.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states require you to return license plates to the DMV or an authorized office rather than discarding them at home.
  • You typically need your vehicle registration or proof of sale to return plates, depending on your state's process.
  • Some states allow you to keep personalized or specialty plates as keepsakes, but standard plates must be returned.
  • If you're selling your vehicle, the new owner may need the plates or you may need to remove them before the sale.
  • Returning plates promptly can prevent confusion with your old vehicle and may support your registration is properly closed.

What You Need to Bring

The documents required to return plates vary by state, but most DMVs ask for your vehicle registration or proof that the vehicle is no longer registered to you. If you've sold the vehicle, bring the bill of sale or a document showing the transfer of ownership. If the vehicle was totaled or scrapped, bring the salvage or junk title if you have it.

Some states don't require any documents at all — you can straightforward walk in and hand over the plates. Call your local DMV office or check the website before you go to confirm what your state needs. Bringing more documentation than required won't hurt, but showing up without what's needed will mean a wasted trip.

Removing Plates From Your Vehicle

Before you return plates, you need to remove them from the vehicle. License plates are held on with bolts or screws, usually one or two per plate. You'll need a wrench or screwdriver that fits the fasteners — most are Phillips head or standard bolts.

Unscrew or unbolt both the front and rear plates if your state requires front plates. Keep the bolts or screws in case you need to install new plates later. If you're selling the vehicle, check your state's rules: some states require you to remove the plates before the sale, while others allow the new owner to keep them or require them to be transferred.

Returning Plates by Mail

If you can't visit a DMV office in person, most states allow you to return plates by mail. Contact your state DMV to request a prepaid mailing envelope or learn the correct address to send plates to. Include any required documents — usually a letter explaining why you're returning the plates and a copy of your registration or proof of sale.

Mail moves slowly, so allow at least two to three weeks for your plates to arrive and be processed. Keep a copy of anything you mail and consider using tracked mail so you have proof of delivery. Some states won't close your registration until they physically receive the plates, so mailing them promptly prevents confusion if the vehicle is involved in an accident or traffic violation after you've sold it.

What Happens to Returned Plates

Once the DMV receives your plates, they are inspected, cleaned, and either reissued to another vehicle owner or destroyed if they're damaged. The DMV records that the plates have been returned and updates your vehicle registration to show it's no longer active. This protects you because if the vehicle is involved in a traffic violation or accident after you've returned the plates, the violation won't be tied to you.

Some states recycle the metal from old plates. Others keep plates in storage for a set period before destroying them. The specific process doesn't affect you — what matters is that your registration is closed and you're no longer responsible for the vehicle.

Keeping Personalized or Specialty Plates

If you have a personalized plate, a vanity plate, or a specialty plate (such as a military or college plate), your state may allow you to keep it as a keepsake. Contact your DMV to ask whether your plate type can be retained. If it can, you'll usually need to formally request it in writing or online when you return your registration.

Standard white or colored state-issued plates cannot be kept — they must be returned. If you want to preserve a standard plate for sentimental reasons, some states allow you to purchase a decorative replica from the DMV for a small fee, which you can display at home without it being a legal license plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I throw away my old license plates?

No. Most states legally require you to return plates to the DMV or an authorized office. Throwing them away can result in fines or penalties. Returning them is free and takes only a few minutes at most DMV locations.

What if I lost my license plates?

If your plates were lost or stolen, report it to your DMV. You won't be able to return them, but you should still notify the DMV so your registration can be properly closed. This prevents liability if someone finds the plates and uses them illegally.

Do I need to return plates if I'm moving to another state?

Yes, return them to your current state's DMV before you move. Some states allow you to mail them in. Once you move, you'll need to register your vehicle in your new state and receive new plates from that state.

Can the new owner of my vehicle keep my license plates?

This depends on your state. Some states require you to remove plates before the sale; others allow the new owner to keep them or require a formal transfer. Check your state's DMV website or call before you sell to know what's required.

What if my DMV office is closed or far away?

Most states allow you to return plates by mail. Contact your DMV to request instructions and a mailing address. Some states also accept plates at county tax collector offices or sheriff's departments, which may be closer to you.