How many days after the transfer of an old car can a new car use the old license plate?
3 Answers
You can use the old license plate for a new car just 3 days after the transfer of the old car. Here are the relevant details: 1. Processing time: You can apply to retain the original license plate number for a new car just 3 days after the transfer of the old car, and the application must be submitted within 6 months after the transfer or cancellation registration. 2. Retention period: The original owner must have owned the old car for more than 3 years, and all traffic violations and accident records related to the old car must be resolved. Additionally, after the transfer or cancellation registration, the original license plate number can be retained for 6 months, and the retained plate can only be used on a new car.
When I last handled the transfer of my old car, I also wanted to keep the license plate for my new car. The DMV said the plate had to be used for at least one year before it could be retained. After completing the transfer procedures, I immediately applied to keep the plate, filled out some forms, and paid the fee. They told me to wait a few business days for processing, and I got the notification in about four or five days. However, I’ve heard that in some places, it can take much longer—sometimes up to two weeks, especially in busy cities. The key point is that the retention period is only one year, meaning you must transfer the old plate to your new car within a year after the transfer, or it will expire. So my advice is not to delay after the transfer—apply right away to avoid wasting your effort if it expires. Also, requirements vary by local DMV, so it’s safest to bring your ID and transfer documents to confirm. The process isn’t too complicated, and my friends have all done it this way.
Hey, I just went through this. After helping my dad sell his old car and transfer ownership, we wanted to keep the nice license plate number for the new car. I checked the regulations and found that the plate must have been registered for over a year to be eligible for retention. After the transfer, I went to the DMV to apply, and the staff said the processing time varies—it could be as short as two or three days or as long as seven or eight days. I waited about a week before getting the result. But be aware that the retention period is 12 months; if you don't assign it to a new car within a year, the plate will be invalid. So I suggest handling the paperwork promptly after the transfer—it's not much hassle once you have the documents ready. Processing times vary by location, with some smaller cities being faster. If you miss the deadline, you’ll have to apply for a new plate, which costs extra time and money—not worth it.
