What black California plates are and who can get them

Black California license plates are the standard plates issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). They have white characters on a black background and are what most vehicles receive when they register or renew. You do not need to request them or take any special action — if you register a vehicle in California, you will get black plates unless you choose a different option.

The only time you might need to think about black plates is if your vehicle currently has a different type of plate — such as a personalized plate, a vintage plate, or a specialty plate — and you want to switch back to standard black plates. This is a straightforward change you can make through the DMV.

Key Takeaways

  • Black plates are the default California license plate; you receive them automatically when you register a new vehicle or renew your registration.
  • If you currently have a different plate type and want to switch to black plates, you can request the change through the DMV online, by mail, or in person.
  • Switching to black plates costs the same as your regular registration renewal fee — there is no additional charge.
  • The DMV will mail your new black plates to you within two to three weeks after your request is processed.

When you already have a vehicle registered

If your vehicle is already registered in California but has a different type of plate, you can request standard black plates at any time. This might happen if you previously had a personalized plate with a custom message, a vintage "black plate" (the historical style from the 1960s), a specialty plate supporting a cause or organization, or a commercial plate.

To switch, you will need your vehicle registration documents and your current plate number. You can start the process online through the California DMV website, by mail using Form REG 14 (process for Replacement Plates), or by visiting a DMV office in person. The online option is fastest if your vehicle record is current.

Requesting black plates through the DMV website

The California DMV website allows you to request replacement plates online if your vehicle registration is active and your address is current in their system. Go to the DMV's official website, select "Plates and Placards," then choose "Replace Plates." You will need to enter your license plate number, vehicle identification number (VIN), and date of birth.

The system will show you what type of plate your vehicle currently has and allow you to select standard black plates as your replacement. You will pay the replacement fee — typically around $20 to $30, depending on your vehicle type — using a credit or debit card. The DMV will mail your new plates within two to three weeks.

Requesting black plates by mail

If you prefer to mail your request, read and complete Form REG 14 from the California DMV website. Include your current license plate number, your vehicle's VIN, and a check or money order for the replacement fee payable to "Department of Motor Vehicles." Mail the form and payment to the DMV address listed on the form.

Processing by mail takes longer than online — typically four to six weeks. Include a note requesting standard black plates to make sure there is no confusion about what type of plate you want. Keep a copy of the form for your records.

Requesting black plates in person at a DMV office

You can also visit a California DMV office and request black plates directly. Bring your vehicle registration documents, proof of identity, and your current license plate (or a photo of it). Tell the DMV representative that you want to replace your current plates with standard black plates.

The DMV will process your request on the spot and collect the replacement fee. Your new plates will be mailed to the address on your registration within two to three weeks. If you need plates sooner, ask the DMV representative whether your local office offers rush processing — some do, though it may cost extra.

What happens when you register a new vehicle

When you register a new vehicle in California for the first time, you will receive standard black plates automatically. You do not need to request them or make any choice. The DMV will issue black plates as part of your initial registration unless you specifically choose a different option at the time of registration.

If you are registering a new vehicle and want to be certain you receive black plates, straightforward do not select any specialty, personalized, or vintage plate option during the registration process. Black plates are the default.

Fees and timing for plate replacement

Replacing your plates with standard black plates costs the same as a regular registration renewal fee. This is typically $20 to $30 for most passenger vehicles, though the exact amount depends on your vehicle's weight and type. You pay this fee once, whether you request plates online, by mail, or in person.

After you submit your request, expect your new black plates to arrive by mail within two to three weeks. During this time, you can continue driving with your current plates. Once your new plates arrive, you must install them on your vehicle within a reasonable time — California law does not specify an exact important date, but you should replace them promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay extra to get black plates instead of a specialty plate?

No. Black plates cost the same as any other standard plate type. If you are switching from a specialty plate to black plates, you pay only the regular replacement fee. Some specialty plates cost more during initial issuance, but switching to black plates does not involve an additional charge.

Can I keep my current license plate number when I switch to black plates?

Yes. When you request replacement plates, the DMV will transfer your current plate number to your new black plates. You will have the same number on a black background instead of whatever background your old plate had.

What if I want the old-style black plates from the 1960s instead of modern black plates?

California offers "black plates" as a specialty option — these are reproductions of the vintage plates from the 1960s with a different appearance than modern black plates. If you want those, you would request them as a specialty plate option, not as standard black plates. This involves a separate process and may have different fees.

How long can I drive with my old plates while waiting for new ones?

You can continue driving with your current plates while the DMV processes your request and mails your new plates. There is no important date to switch. Once your new plates arrive, install them within a reasonable time, but you are not breaking any law by driving with your old plates for a few extra days while you arrange to put the new ones on.

What if I move to a different California county after requesting new plates?

Contact the DMV and update your address before your new plates are mailed. The plates will be sent to your current address on file. If you have already submitted your request and then move, call the DMV or visit a local office to update your mailing address so your plates go to the right place.