Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged car registration (and its accompanying license plate sticker) is a straightforward process typically handled by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. The fastest and most common method is to apply online through your state's official DMV website. If you need the replacement immediately, an in-person visit to a DMV office is your best bet, though it often involves a wait. You'll generally need your driver's license, your vehicle's license plate number, and the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). A replacement fee is required, which varies by state.
The exact requirements, costs, and processing times differ significantly depending on where you live. Some states allow for online replacement only if your address is current, while others may require a notarized form for a lost registration. The table below outlines the variability in key aspects across different states.
| State | Governing Agency | Primary Replacement Method | Estimated Fee (Standard Passenger Vehicle) | Online Processing Time | Special Notes |
|---|
| California | DMV | Online/In-Person | $23 | 2-3 weeks | "Reg 156" form required for in-person. |
| Texas | DMV | Online/In-Person | $6.65 | 1-2 weeks | Address must be current in system for online request. |
| Florida | Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles | Online/In-Person | $2.50 | 7-10 business days | Can also be done at some county tax collector offices. |
| New York | DMV | Online/By Mail | $3 | 2 weeks | In-person visit often unnecessary; affidavit required if stolen. |
| Illinois | Secretary of State | Online/By Mail | $6 | 10 business days | "VSD 190" form required for mail-in applications. |
Before you start, gather your necessary documents. Your driver's license proves your identity, and your VIN (found on the dashboard near the windshield or on the driver's side doorjamb) confirms vehicle ownership. If your registration was stolen, filing a police report is a smart step, though not always mandatory. It creates an official record that can protect you from potential fraud.
When applying online, you'll enter your information, pay with a credit card, and receive a confirmation. They will mail the physical document to the address on file. If you go in person, you can often leave with the replacement registration the same day. Remember to sign the new document as soon as you receive it, as an unsigned registration is often considered invalid.
