Does Buying a Used Car Come with License Plates?
3 Answers
Buying a used car does not include the license plates. License plates cannot be transferred. Used car license plates cannot be transferred along with the vehicle. The car, as private property, can be transferred, but the license plate is considered national public property. It does not belong to any individual or group; the owner only has the right to use the license plate, not ownership, so it cannot be transferred with the car. The license plate follows the person under certain conditions, which include: 1. The original license plate must have been used for more than three years. 2. The application to continue using the original license plate must be submitted within six months after completing the transfer or cancellation registration. 3. All traffic violations and accidents involving the original vehicle must be resolved. However, these conditions may vary depending on the region.
When buying a used car, the license plate is usually included, but the transfer procedures must be completed for it to be valid. I've helped friends with several transactions before, and the seller always had to provide the license plate, but the buyer must complete the transfer at the vehicle management office within the specified time. If the transfer isn't done, the license plate may be invalidated, and you could face fines or other troubles. For the procedure, bring your ID, purchase contract, and vehicle registration certificate, fill out the forms, pay the fees, and you're done—the process is straightforward but don’t delay. Also, check the license plate's history for any violations to avoid extra issues. After buying, I recommend taking photos for records in case you need evidence later. Keeping the vehicle's records clean is crucial for safe driving and insurance claims. In short, the license plate is part of the deal, but be proactive to avoid regrets.
I just bought a used sedan, and the seller said the license plate was already on the car. During the transfer process, we went together to the DMV. I brought my ID card, and he brought the original documents. We filled out a few forms, and it was done. The name on the license plate was changed to mine, but the number remained the same. Remember to check all the documents are complete to avoid a wasted trip. Rules vary by location, so call ahead to save time and money. After the purchase, you can use the license plate as usual—no need to rush to remove it. If the original owner hasn’t completed all the procedures, make sure to urge them to finish everything promptly. Delays could lead to the DMV locking the records, which would be more troublesome. During regular maintenance, check that the license plate is securely fastened to avoid it coming loose and causing an accident due to bumps. After completing a used car transaction, the license plate can be safely used for years without issues, but remember to undergo regular inspections and renewals.
