California License Plates
Driving a motor vehicle on California roads without a valid license plate is illegal. It can result in an infraction or a misdemeanor charge with penalties that may include fines, probation and even jail time. So, do not neglect your license plates. If you a have a new vehicle, order plates immediately. If they get lost or damaged, don’t delay getting a new one as well. Lastly, do not forget to renew your plates before they expire.
How do you apply for a license plate? The application for license plates takes place during the car’s registration. The vehicle registration fee already includes the fee for the license plate. No additional payment is required unless you are getting a custom plate.
License plates serve as an I.D. that enables DMV to identify the vehicle’s owner. They also show the kind of registration the automobile has, whether it is commercial, passenger or something else. In most cases, the plates stay with the car even if there is a change in the ownership. However, for an additional fee, the owner can keep the license or transfer it to another vehicle.
How to Get New Plates
Getting license plates for a new car is easy if you made the purchase in California. This is because your car dealer will take the lead in preparing and processing the paperwork. While waiting for the official registration, they will issue a temporary registration and provide the car’s VIN (vehicle identification number).
If you are buying outside of a dealership, you have to process the registration on your own. You are required to register the vehicle within 10 days after you bought it. Below are some of the documents you need to submit:
Certificate of Title with the signatures of the seller and buyer.
If the title is not available, a filled-out form REG 227 to apply for a duplicate or paperless title.
Smog certification.
Odometer mileage (for vehicles 10 years old and below).
Payment for registration and other fees.
For more information about registering and applying for license plates for a vehicle bought from a third-party, visit this DMV CA page.
Meanwhile, if you are new to CA and purchasing a car or bringing one from outside of California, you must establish residency first. You need to register the vehicle not more than 20 days from the date your residency was granted.
To register your vehicle and obtain your license plate, comply with the following requirements:
Filled out form (REG 343) for registration or application for title.
Out-of-state Certificate of Title, if there’s a change in ownership, or the registration certificate, if the title is not available
CA smog certification
Verification check on the vehicle by a trusted DMV employee
Payment for fees
How To Replace License Plates
To replace stolen or damaged license plates:
Fill out this form and submit it to the DMV either in person or through email.
Surrender the other plate (if you are only replacing one)
Show documents that prove you are the owner
Show your driver’s license or ID card
Present a police report, if plate was stolen
To learn more about replacing California license plates and stickers, visit the DMV website.
What Happens to the Plates When Selling a Car?
As mentioned, a license plate is the vehicle’s I.D. and not the owner’s. Hence, when the vehicle is sold, the plates go with it. It is possible, however, for owners like you to keep the plates even if you sell or let go of the vehicle. You simply need to submit an application at the DMV office.
Click here to find out more about driving in California or sign up for California Drivers Ed or Traffic School Online.
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