Can Old License Plates Be Transferred to a New Car?
2 Answers
The old license plate cannot be used on a new car, but the old license number can be used on a new car. There is a difference between the two. If the car is sold, the license plate will be reclaimed by the vehicle management office, but the number will be retained for one year. If you purchase a new car within that year, you need to go to the vehicle management office to have a new plate made, but it will still use the old number. If you want to keep the old license plate, you can refer to the following regulations: 1. The vehicle must have been used for at least one year to retain the original license plate, and the retention period can be up to one year; 2. The original license plate can be retained if the vehicle is transferred, deregistered, or relocated; 3. Both used and new cars can apply for retention; 4. All traffic violation records of the original vehicle must be resolved.
I remember trying to transfer my old license plate to a new car a few years ago when I changed vehicles. That plate held special meaning for me—the numbers were my dad's old plate number, representing a family tradition. The process was quite simple: First, I checked the regulations on the local DMV website and found that most places allow transfers as long as the plate isn't damaged and is still valid. Then, I brought the purchase documents for the new car and the registration certificate for the old one to complete the procedure, paying a small transfer fee. The staff handled it in just a few minutes, and after the system updated, the plate was officially linked to the new car. Some states have restrictions on personalized plates, requiring full compliance with conditions. The whole process saved time and money while preserving memories. I recommend calling ahead to confirm details to avoid a wasted trip.
