How Long Can a License Plate Number Be Retained After Selling a Car?
2 Answers
After selling a car, the license plate number can be retained for one year. If the original owner wishes to keep the original license plate number, the following three conditions must be met: 1. Time requirement: The application must be submitted within one year after completing the transfer or cancellation of registration. 2. The original vehicle must have been owned by the applicant for at least one year. 3. All violations and other issues related to the vehicle must be resolved. When applying to retain the license plate, the required materials include: 1. The owner's ID card and a copy. 2. Proof of compulsory traffic insurance for the vehicle. 3. Annual inspection certificate and vehicle factory certificate. 4. Application form for vehicle transfer or registration, and proof of vehicle origin. 5. Proof of completed purchase tax payment and all other documents submitted during vehicle registration.
How long can you keep your license plate after buying a car? I'm quite qualified to speak on this matter, as a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience who frequently retains license plates when changing cars. Generally, you can keep it for 6 months to 1 year, with regulations varying by region. For example, Beijing allows 6 months while Shenzhen may permit a year. You must purchase a new car and register it within this retention period, otherwise the plate will be invalidated and returned to the system pool. The procedure is simple - just bring your original registration certificate and ID to the DMV to complete the formalities, paying a small fee. If you forget to handle it, you'll need to participate in the lottery or auction again after expiration, especially for auspicious number combinations - losing them would be such a pity. I've seen many people procrastinate until it's too late, so I recommend planning your timing carefully before car purchase to avoid wasting your lucky plate.
