When and why you need to remove your license plate

You remove your license plate when you sell your vehicle, surrender it to the state, or transfer it to a different car. In most states, the plate stays with you rather than the car — you keep it and move it to your replacement vehicle, or you return it to your state's motor vehicle office. The process itself takes minutes, but what happens to the plate afterward depends on your state's rules and whether you're keeping the plate or turning it in.

Removing the plate is straightforward: most are held by two bolts (one at the top, one at the bottom) that you unscrew with a wrench or socket set. Some states use a single bolt or a bracket system, but the principle is the same. The confusion usually comes from what to do with the plate once it's off, not from the removal itself.

Key Takeaways

  • License plates are typically held by two bolts that you unscrew with a wrench; the process takes five to ten minutes.
  • In most states, you keep your plate when you sell the car and can transfer it to your next vehicle by notifying your state motor vehicle office.
  • Some states require you to return the plate to the motor vehicle office within a set timeframe after selling or surrendering the vehicle.
  • If you're keeping the plate, store it flat in a dry place; if you're returning it, check your state's office for a drop-off location or mailing address.
  • Never remove a plate from a vehicle you don't own, and don't drive without a plate once it's removed unless the vehicle is being transported on a trailer.

Tools you'll need and how to remove the bolts

Gather a wrench or socket set before you start. Most license plate bolts are either 7/16-inch or 1/2-inch, so if you have a basic wrench set, you likely have the right size. Position yourself in front of or behind the plate so you can see both bolts clearly. Loosen the top bolt first by turning it counterclockwise, then the bottom bolt. Once both are loose enough to turn by hand, unscrew them completely and set them aside in a small container so you don't lose them.

Gently pull the plate away from the vehicle. It should come free without resistance. If it doesn't, check whether there's a bracket or frame holding it — some vehicles use a metal or plastic holder that clips or bolts around the plate itself. If that's the case, unscrew the bolts holding the bracket to the vehicle, then remove the bracket and plate together. Once the plate is off, you can slide it out of the bracket if you need to.

If the bolts are stuck or rusted, spray them with penetrating oil (like WD-40) and wait ten to fifteen minutes before trying again. Don't force a stuck bolt — you risk stripping it or damaging the vehicle's bumper or frame.

What to do if you're keeping the plate for your next vehicle

If your state allows plate transfers — and most do — you can move the plate to your replacement car. Contact your state's motor vehicle office (usually called the DMV, RMV, or Secretary of State) and tell them you've sold or transferred your vehicle and want to keep the plate. Some states let you do this online; others require a phone call or a visit to an office. They'll update their records to show the plate is no longer attached to the old vehicle.

Store the plate flat in a dry location until you're ready to install it on your new car. Don't leave it in direct sunlight for extended periods, as UV exposure can fade the numbers and letters. When you get your replacement vehicle, you'll bolt the plate back on using the same bolts (or new ones if the old ones are damaged). You don't need to visit an office again unless your state requires a new registration card or sticker for the new vehicle.

Check your state's specific rules before assuming you can transfer the plate. A few states tie plates to vehicles rather than owners, which means you'll need to get a new plate for your next car. Your motor vehicle office can tell you in one call whether your state allows transfers.

Returning the plate if your state requires it

Some states require you to return the plate within 30 to 60 days of selling or surrendering the vehicle. Check your state's motor vehicle office website or call to confirm whether return is mandatory in your state. If it is, you'll usually have two options: mail the plate to the office or drop it off in person at a local branch.

If you're mailing it, place the plate in a padded envelope or box and send it to the address listed on your state's website. Include a note with your name, the vehicle's VIN (vehicle identification number), and the plate number if possible. Keep the mailing receipt as proof you returned it, in case there's a question later.

If you're dropping it off, bring the plate to your nearest motor vehicle office during business hours. You don't need an appointment for this — it's a quick transaction. Ask for a receipt showing you've returned the plate, especially if you're selling the vehicle and want documentation that you've complied with state law.

What happens if you don't remove the plate before selling the car

If you sell the vehicle with the plate still attached, you're responsible for notifying your state that you no longer own the car. Failure to do this can leave you liable for parking tickets, tolls, or traffic violations the new owner incurs. Most states require you to file a bill of sale or a notice of transfer within a specific timeframe — usually 10 to 30 days.

The safest approach is to remove the plate yourself before handing over the keys. This ensures you have physical possession of it and can either transfer it or return it according to your state's rules. If you've already sold the car with the plate on it, contact your motor vehicle office when ready and ask how to report the transfer. They can guide you through the process and protect you from liability.

Storing or disposing of a plate you're not using

If you're keeping a plate but won't use it for several months, store it flat in a cool, dry place — a garage shelf or closet works well. Don't stack other items on top of it, as this can bend or crack it. Keep it away from extreme heat or moisture, which can damage the reflective coating.

If you want to dispose of a plate you no longer need, don't throw it in the trash. Many states have specific disposal procedures, and some motor vehicle offices will take old plates when you visit. You can also ask your local office whether they have a recycling program. Some offices shred plates to prevent fraud, so they may prefer to handle disposal themselves rather than having you do it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive the car after I remove the plate?

No. Once the plate is off, the vehicle is not registered for road use. You can only drive it if you're moving it directly to a repair shop, a dealer, or your home. If you need to transport it any distance, use a trailer or have it towed. Driving without a plate is illegal and can result in a fine.

What if the bolts are missing or damaged when I remove the plate?

You'll need new bolts when you install the plate on your next vehicle. Stainless steel license plate bolts are inexpensive and available at auto parts stores or online. Bring the old bolt (if you have one) to the store so staff can match the size, or measure the bolt hole diameter yourself. Installation takes the same few minutes as removal.

Do I need to notify my insurance company when I remove the plate?

Yes. Contact your insurance company and tell them you've sold or transferred the vehicle. They'll cancel the policy for that car, and you may be due a refund for unused coverage. Don't wait — driving without active insurance is illegal, and your insurer needs to know the vehicle is no longer in your possession.

What if I'm selling the car to a private buyer who wants to keep the plate on?

In most states, you can't transfer the plate to the buyer — plates stay with the owner, not the vehicle. The buyer will need to get their own plate from the motor vehicle office. Remove your plate before the sale closes, then contact your state to report the transfer. The buyer will register the vehicle in their name and receive a new plate.

Can I use an old plate on a different vehicle I own?

Only if your state allows plate transfers and you've notified the motor vehicle office of the change. You can't straightforward move a plate from one car to another without updating your registration. Contact your state's office, provide the new vehicle's VIN, and they'll update their records. Once that's done, you can install the plate on the new car.