Can Green License Plates Be Transferred to Another Vehicle?
2 Answers
Motor vehicle license plates can be applied for retention after being used for one full year, allowing them to continue to be used when changing vehicles. Ownership of Motor Vehicle License Plates: Regarding license plate policies, there are clear regulations: motor vehicles can be bought and sold, but the license plates belong to the vehicle owner and cannot be transferred. This means the original license plate can only be used by the original owner (whether a company or an individual) and cannot be transferred to another person, not even between father and son. Special Regions: In some areas, such as Shenzhen and Hangzhou, there are restrictions on "one person owning multiple vehicles." If an individual owns more than two small cars, only one can retain the original license plate directly after changing vehicles. Additionally, only local residents or non-local residents who have paid social insurance for at least two years can retain the original license plate.
I've been driving for over a decade and recently got a new car. The original green license plate couldn't be directly transferred to the new vehicle because plates are tied to specific cars. When changing cars, you must first dispose of the old one, either by selling or scrapping it, then deregister the old plate at the DMV. After purchasing the new car, simply apply for a new green plate. The process isn't complicated, but remember to bring your ID, purchase invoice, and proof of old vehicle disposal. Last time I changed cars, it took me two or three days to complete everything. The benefits of new energy vehicle plates include tax exemption and priority access - these privileges remain unaffected when changing cars, and you even get to upgrade to a more advanced electric vehicle. Note that policies may vary by region, so it's best to check local regulations beforehand to avoid pitfalls.
