Can I Use My Old License Plate If I'm Not Satisfied with the New Plate Selection?
2 Answers
You can reselect. According to the regulations of different local vehicle management offices, you need to wait for 3 days until the originally selected number becomes invalid, and then you can choose a new license plate. Online selection method: Log in to the traffic management bureau or the online vehicle management office, enter the license plate self-selection website, and select the "Online Vehicle Management Office" online self-service license plate selection system. Enter the owner's name, ID card or organization code certificate, vehicle identification number (VIN), and invoice. After verification, you can search and select the motor vehicle license plate number according to the coding rules. Below is additional information: License plate numbers cannot be changed: If the vehicle has already been registered with the vehicle management office, the selected license plate number cannot be changed. Selection stage: If you are only in the selection stage and are not satisfied with the options, you can switch to the next batch and reselect. License plate lottery: When a new car is registered at the vehicle management office, after completing the relevant procedures, multiple numbers are drawn during the license plate lottery. You can then choose your preferred number from these. If you are not satisfied with any of the numbers, you can give up this round and participate in the lottery again. If you want to change the license plate after confirming the number, you need to go to the vehicle management office to complete the relevant procedures.
As a car owner with over a decade of driving experience, I also faced the issue of unsatisfactory license plate selection when changing to a new car. After inquiring at the DMV, they explained that as long as the original license plate had been registered under my name for more than one year, I could apply for a plate transfer within one year after the old car's ownership transfer. I brought all required documents—ID card, new car invoice, and old car transfer proof—to complete the process. After filling out a form and paying a 60-yuan processing fee, the whole procedure took less than two hours. My new car directly inherited the old license plate, saving me the hassle of selecting a new number while preserving that sense of familiarity. I find this policy quite user-friendly, as it prevents many car owners from dissatisfaction with new plates. I recommend checking your local DMV website for specific procedures to ensure you have all materials ready and handle it timely without missing deadlines. You might also inquire during routine car maintenance to avoid unnecessary detours. After this process, driving feels much more enjoyable without worrying about license plate numbers anymore.
