Report the theft to your local police department first
Call the non-emergency police line in your city or county and file a report for the stolen plate. You do not need to wait for an officer to come to your home — most departments take these reports over the phone or through an online form. Have your vehicle identification number (VIN), license plate number, and the approximate date you noticed it missing ready when you call.
The police report creates an official record that protects you if someone uses your plate to commit a traffic violation or crime. Keep the report number they give you — you will need it when you contact your state's motor vehicle department. Some states require the police report before they will issue a replacement plate.
Key Takeaways
- File a police report for the stolen plate before contacting your state motor vehicle department, because most states require it.
- Contact your state's motor vehicle agency by phone, mail, or online to report the theft and request a replacement plate.
- Replacement plates usually cost between $10 and $50 depending on your state, and arrive within two to four weeks.
- If someone commits a traffic violation with your stolen plate, the police report protects you from liability for fines or tickets.
- Some states issue temporary plates when ready while your permanent replacement is being made.
Contact your state motor vehicle department to request a replacement
After you have the police report number, reach out to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Secretary of State, or equivalent agency — the name varies by state. You can usually do this by phone, mail, or through their website. Tell them your plate was stolen and provide the police report number.
The agent will verify your vehicle registration and driver's license information. They will then issue you a new plate with a different number. Some states charge a replacement fee (typically $10 to $50), while others waive it when a theft is reported. Ask whether your state charges a fee and what payment methods they accept.
Understand what happens with your old plate number
Once you report the plate stolen, your state's motor vehicle department deactivates that plate number in their system. This means if someone uses it on another vehicle or commits a traffic violation, the violation will not be linked to your vehicle registration.
However, the protection is not automatic — it depends on the police report being filed first. If a ticket or violation comes to you months later with your old plate number, you can show the police report and the replacement plate documentation to prove the plate was stolen before the violation occurred. Keep copies of both documents with your vehicle records.
Get a temporary plate if you need to drive when ready
Some states issue a temporary plate or temporary registration document that you can use while your permanent replacement is being made. This is usually a paper plate or sticker that is valid for 30 to 60 days. Ask your motor vehicle department whether they offer this when you report the theft.
If your state does not offer a temporary plate, you may be able to drive your vehicle legally without a plate for a short period while the replacement is in transit — but this varies by state. Contact your motor vehicle department to confirm what is allowed in your situation. Do not assume you can drive without a plate; some states fine you when ready if you are stopped.
Monitor your driving record for fraudulent violations
Check your driving record with your state's motor vehicle department every few months for the next year. You can usually do this online or by calling. Look for any traffic violations or tickets you did not receive — these would indicate someone used your stolen plate.
If you find a violation that is not yours, contact the court listed on the ticket and explain that your plate was stolen. Bring the police report and your replacement plate documentation. The court can dismiss the ticket once they verify the plate was no longer yours at the time of the violation.
Prevent future theft by securing your plates
License plate theft is often quick and straightforward because plates are held on with straightforward bolts. After you receive your replacement plate, consider using security fasteners — special bolts that require a unique tool to remove. These cost $15 to $30 and are available at auto parts stores. They do not prevent all theft, but they make your vehicle a less attractive target.
Park in well-lit areas when possible, and in a garage if you have one. If you notice your plate is missing, report it when ready rather than waiting. The sooner you file a police report and get a replacement, the smaller the window for someone to use your plate illegally.
Know your options if the replacement takes longer than expected
Standard replacement plates usually arrive within two to four weeks, but delays happen. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives and your state does not offer a temporary plate, contact your motor vehicle department about a temporary registration document or letter stating that your plate was stolen and a replacement is pending.
Some states will mail this letter to you or let you print it from their website. It is not a legal plate, but it documents your situation if you are stopped by police. Keep it in your vehicle along with your registration and the police report number. If you are stopped, explain that your plate was stolen and show the officer the documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I get a ticket if someone uses my stolen plate before I report it?
Not if you have filed a police report and reported the theft to your motor vehicle department. The police report creates a record that your plate was stolen before the violation occurred. If a ticket arrives, contact the court with your police report and replacement plate documentation to have it dismissed.
Can I keep my old plate number when I get a replacement?
No. When a plate is reported stolen, your state deactivates that number permanently. Your replacement plate will have a different number. This is intentional — it prevents someone from continuing to use your old number.
How much does a replacement plate cost?
Replacement fees vary by state, typically ranging from $10 to $50. Many states waive the fee if you provide a police report showing the plate was stolen. Call your state's motor vehicle department to confirm the fee and whether it applies in your situation.
What if I find my stolen plate later?
If your plate turns up, you do not need to do anything. It is already deactivated in your state's system and cannot be used legally. You can turn it in to your local police department or motor vehicle office, but it is not required.
Do I need to update my insurance company?
Contact your insurance company and let them know your plate was stolen. This creates a record with them and may be relevant if someone uses your plate in an accident or crime. It takes only a quick phone call.