Can License Plates Be Replaced?
2 Answers
Generally, it is not allowed, but if the owner of the motor vehicle applies for a change of registration due to their residence moving out of or into the jurisdiction of the vehicle management office where the vehicle is registered, the vehicle license plate can be replaced. Below are the relevant regulations for license plate replacement: 1. National regulations: If the registered owner of a motor vehicle moves their residence out of the jurisdiction of the original vehicle management office, or if the ownership of the motor vehicle is transferred and the current owner's residence is not within the jurisdiction of the original vehicle management office, the current owner should, within 30 days from the date of moving out or the transfer of ownership, fill out the 'Motor Vehicle Registration Application Form,' submit the relevant documents, apply for a transfer registration, and have the vehicle inspected. 2. Ministry of Public Security regulations: According to Article 52 of the 'Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations' issued by the Ministry of Public Security, the following conditions must be met to apply for the use of the original motor vehicle license plate number: the application must be submitted within six months after the transfer or cancellation of registration; the owner must have owned the original motor vehicle for more than three years; all traffic violations and accident liabilities related to the original motor vehicle must be resolved.
Sure, license plates can be replaced. My own plate got dented by a small stone last time, and it looked so bad that I went to the DMV. The process is actually quite simple: first, check local regulations—most places require you to bring your ID, vehicle registration, and proof of damage (like photos or a police report), fill out an application, pay a small fee (usually a few dozen yuan), and wait a few days for the new plate to arrive. Remember, you can’t just slap on stickers or spray paint it yourself—that’s illegal and could get you fined. If your plate gets stolen, report it to the police immediately to get proof before heading to the DMV, to prevent anyone from misusing it and causing you trouble. I think it’s important to check your plates regularly—weather and wear can make them hard to read over time, so replacing them promptly avoids getting pulled over by traffic cops. Replacing a license plate isn’t a big deal; the key is following the rules and not delaying it, as it could affect driving safety.
