Can the license plate be retained after selling a motorcycle?
3 Answers
You cannot keep the license plate after selling a motorcycle. The license plate is associated with the vehicle's frame number and engine number through the vehicle management office. The motorcycle must be deregistered (processed for scrapping) before the license plate can be reused in the future. Below are the required procedures for motorcycle registration: 1. Documents: The original and a copy of the buyer's second-generation ID card. 2. Invoice: The purchase invoice (the buyer's name on the invoice should match the name on the provided ID card). 3. Insurance proof: Original documents for the vehicle purchase additional tax and compulsory third-party liability insurance. 4. Motorcycle information: The original certificate of conformity for the newly purchased motorcycle and the engine number and frame number imprint. 5. Inspection: Ride the newly purchased motorcycle to the traffic police brigade compound for photography and inspection.
I used to be curious about whether motorcycle license plates could be retained, so I specifically researched the policies. Actually, the policies for motorcycles and cars are quite similar. Your license plate can be retained, but several strict conditions must be met: the plate must have been used for at least one year; you must apply to retain it within two years after selling the motorcycle; all traffic violation fines must be paid, and any accidents must be resolved. Most importantly, the retained license plate can only be used on your own new vehicle and cannot be transferred to someone else. The application process requires visiting the vehicle management office to complete a transfer registration, and you just need to bring your ID card and vehicle documents. If you want to keep that lucky number with an '8', none of these conditions can be skipped.
Last year, I successfully retained my license plate after selling my motorcycle, and the whole process went quite smoothly. The most crucial step was to clear all traffic violations before selling the bike, otherwise the DMV wouldn't process it at all. During the transfer, I made it clear to the buyer that I wanted to keep the license plate and asked them not to touch the number. When buying a new motorcycle within two years, I simply informed the DMV that I wanted to reuse the old plate, filled out an application form, and waited for approval. Remember, timing is critical: the two-year deadline starts from the day you sell the vehicle, and if you miss it, you'll have to get a new plate. Now, with my familiar plate on the new bike, riding feels even more personal.
