After you buy a car and get car insurance, your next step is to get your license plates.
Your license plate number consists of a unique set of characters that associate your vehicle with:
- Your current registration status and details.
- Your name and address.
- Information about the vehicle itself.
Like the VIN number, the license plate number is another unique identifier of your vehicle.
Whether you’re getting the standard sequential plates or custom license plates, the process is basically the same.
And then after you’ve got your new plates you’ll need to make sure to keep them up to date and renew your car tags each renewal period.
We’ve compiled all the information you’ll need to make it easy to get license plates for your vehicle in each state.
This information is especially useful if you’ve just moved to a new state or have purchased a vehicle.
Plus, we’ve got plenty of resources for buying and selling vehicles, get started here:
How to Get a License Plate
When you buy a new or used vehicle, you’ll first need to transfer ownership into your name.
If you’ve bought a car from a dealership, they’ll typically take care of this process for you.
But, if you’ve purchased a car from a private seller, you’ll be responsible for completing the process through the DMV.
Once the title is transferred into your name, you’ll be ready to register the vehicle and get your new license plates. In most cases, you’ll be able to take care of these steps all at once.
Be sure to get your new tags within the time frame required by your state DMV.
Visit your local tag office to get started.
To get new license plates, you’ll typically need to:
- Provide proof of ownership for the vehicle you need plates for.
- Complete an application for a new registration.
- Complete a VIN inspection, depending on the type of vehicle and if you bought it out of state.
- Complete any necessary vehicle safety and emissions inspections.
- Provide proof of car insurance and/or have an active policy for the vehicle that meets the minimum insurance requirements.
- Have paid all necessary state, local, sales and use taxes.
- Pay your initial registration and license plate fees.
In some cases, you may receive your new license plates on the spot. In other cases, your new plates will be mailed to you within about 2 to 3 weeks.
After you’ve received your new tags, you’ll need to install them. Learn how to remove and install license plates with this simple guide.
Be sure to mount them properly and affix the necessary car tags to the plate.
How much will my car tag cost?
The exact cost of your car tags will depend on the type of vehicle you have, the type of license plates, and where you live.
The total cost of your car tags will vary depending on:
- The weight of your vehicle.
- The value/age of your vehicle.
- The type of vehicle you have (gasoline, hybrid, electric).
- Sale price, if applicable.
- Local fees and taxes.
- Specialty and personalized license plate fees, if applicable.
For the most up-to-date car tag costs for your vehicle, please visit the official DMV website or refer to your renewal notice.
License Plate Renewal
In order to continue driving legally, you’ll need to make sure that your car insurance policy is current and your car tags are renewed.
Renewing your license plates is a simple process. Depending on your state, you’ll typically have the option of renewing your plates:
- In person.
- By mail.
- Online.
For any license plate renewal eligibility questions, you should refer to your renewal notice or contact the DMV.
To make sure you’re able to renew your license plates, you should have the following information and items ready:
- Your current registration card and/or license plate renewal notice.
- Your registration number/license plate number.
- Your vehicle’s VIN. (Where to find the VIN?)
- Your current address.
- Your driver’s license number.
- Your current car insurance policy details.
- Payment for your license plate renewal fees.
Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged License Plate
Remember, in order to drive legally, you’ll need to display your valid, up-to-date license plates on your vehicle.
If your plates have been lost, stolen, or damaged, you’ll want to be sure to replace them as soon as possible.
In the case of a stolen license plate, be sure to contact your local law enforcement office to file a police report first. Learn more about what to do if your license plate is stolen here.
In order to get replacement license plates or stickers, you’ll typically need to provide:
- Your full name, driver’s license number, and address to prove your identity.
- Your license plate number and registration details.
- Payment for the replacement fee.