Learn how to replace standard, personalized, or prorated IRP license plates.
Before you get started
You must replace your license plates if they're lost, stolen, destroyed, or damaged. If they're reported stolen, you can't use the same license plate number.
Replacing your license plates
Fees will apply when getting new plates for a vehicle.
For buyers of a vehicle
- You can get regular (mountain background) plates at a vehicle licensing location
- You can get personalized license plates or special design license plates
You can also use plates you already own by transferring them to your vehicle. Fees will still apply.
For sellers of a vehicle
You can:
- Keep the plates of the vehicle you sell to put on another vehicle (fees will apply), or
- Learn how to properly dispose of old plates
If you purchased tabs just before or after you sold the vehicle you may be able to get a refund for the fees you paid.
Do I need to replace my plates?
If a vehicle has changed ownership, you'll need to get new license plates.
Plates don't need to be replaced if:
- You're removing a deceased spouse or domestic partner from the title
- You got your vehicle from:
- your spouse or domestic partner
- a family member as a gift or inheritance
- a trust in which the registered owner or their immediate family members are the beneficiaries of the trust
Mailbox requirements for buyers and sellers
If your mailbox is smaller than 12½" x 6½", the post office may not be able to deliver your new license plates. They'll be returned to the licensing office that mailed them. You must be registered with the post office to receive mail at the address you provide.
Verify your address first
Before you can replace your plates, you must verify your residence street address or business address with us. To verify your address:
Online
Enter your address (even if it hasn't changed):
- Personal and business vehicles: Change your vehicle address
- Vehicle fleets (5 or more vehicles): Join or login to License Express for business
In person
Visit your local vehicle licensing office and verify your address when you replace your plates.
How to replace your plates
Once replaced, your current plates are canceled immediately, and our records will note your plates have been replaced. You will not be able to use the same license plate number again if you report your plates stolen.
Standard plates
To replace standard license plates, visit a vehicle licensing office and bring all of the following with you:
- A notarized Affidavit of Loss/Release of Interest form, or a notarized letter addressed to the Department of Licensing, saying that your vehicle license plates have been lost, stolen, or destroyed
- Photo identification
- Cash or check for the fee:
- Vehicles: $82
- Trucks: $82
- Motorhomes: $88
- Motorcycle: $32
- Trailers: $50
Personalized or special design plates
To replace personalized or special design plates, visit a vehicle licensing office and bring all of the following with you:
- A notarized Affidavit of Loss/Release of Interest, or a notarized letter addressed to the Department of Licensing, saying that your vehicle license plates have been lost, stolen, or destroyed
- Photo identification
- A completed License Plate Replacement Application
- Cash or check for the fee (depends on which special license plate design you have)
IRP (prorate) plates
To learn how to replace your International Registration Plan (IRP) plates, see replace your cab cards, decals, or plates.
Update your Good To Go! account, if needed
If you have a Good To Go! electronic tolling pass, be sure to update the contact information on your account with the Department of Transportation. Update your Good To Go! account online, or call 866-936-8246.
