Does changing the license plate without changing the owner count as a transfer?

[LaIsaac]

Changing only the license plate number does not count as a transfer. For a transfer to occur, the vehicle registration must also be updated to the new owner's name. According to the "Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations": Article 18: When the ownership of a registered motor vehicle is transferred, the new owner must apply for a transfer registration at the local vehicle management office within 30 days from the date of delivery. Before applying for the transfer registration, the owner must resolve all traffic violations and accidents related to the vehicle. Article 19: To apply for a transfer registration, the new owner must fill out an application form, present the vehicle for inspection, and submit the following documents and proofs: (1) The new owner's identity proof; (2) Proof and documentation of the ownership transfer; (3) The motor vehicle registration certificate; (4) The motor vehicle license; (5) For vehicles under customs supervision, the "Release Certificate of Customs Supervised Vehicles" or a customs-approved transfer proof must also be submitted; (6) For vehicles past their inspection expiration date, a valid motor vehicle safety inspection certificate and compulsory traffic accident liability insurance proof must also be submitted. It is important to note that when purchasing a new vehicle, the owner must replace the old license plate with a new one as per regulations, and the original plate must be surrendered to the traffic authorities. Additionally, license plates cannot be transferred, meaning the buyer cannot use the original plate.

[DiRuth]

When I first changed my license plate, I was also confused and worried if it counted as a transfer. Actually, no. A transfer refers to a change of ownership, like when you sell your car to someone else. Changing the license plate is just swapping the number plate, which might be due to damage or switching to a regional plate. In my case, because the plate was badly worn, I went to the DMV to submit an application, and they quickly issued a new one. The entire process didn’t change the owner’s information, and the insurance remained unaffected. I recommend regularly checking your license plate’s condition to avoid issues that could affect driving. This kind of minor adjustment is purely administrative and far from a transfer of ownership.

[DerekFitz]

When I helped relatives with vehicle procedures in the past, I found that transfer of ownership and license plate replacement are fundamentally different. Transfer involves a transaction process, such as signing agreements and registering a new owner, which equates to transferring ownership. On the other hand, replacing a license plate is simply a unilateral application for a new identifier, with the owner remaining unchanged and no transfer procedures required. Legally, this absolutely does not count as a transfer. In the cases I encountered at the DMV, many owners replaced plates due to moving or plate damage, but the vehicles remained under their names. Remember to keep proof of the old plates to avoid future misunderstandings.

[DavidDella]

Changing the license plate without changing the vehicle owner certainly doesn't count as a transfer of ownership. I just went through this process myself, and the car insurance remained exactly the same. A transfer would reset the ownership relationship, while plate replacement only affects external identification. Insurance documents need to update the plate number but the policy stays unchanged. I simply notified my insurance company directly, with no additional cost changes. It's crucial to check your vehicle registration documents for consistency to avoid issues during roadside inspections. This point is quite important - don't confuse these procedures as it could affect your safety or coverage.

[DiLeah]

I was really scared when I lost my license plate last time, thinking my car was going to be transferred to someone else. I quickly asked the DMV, and they said don't worry, this isn't a transfer, the owner is still you. You just need to fill out a form, pay a fee, and get a new plate. I got it done quickly and efficiently. A transfer is the real procedure for changing ownership, like when you sell a car and need to change the name. As a beginner, it's important to understand these differences to avoid unnecessary worries.