How to Cancel a License Plate?

[AnnaMarie]

Vehicle license plates can be canceled. To apply for cancellation registration, the vehicle must have been used for more than three years. If you want to change the license plate number, you need to bring the original ID card. You must personally go to the vehicle management office to fill out an application form, the 'Motor Vehicle License Plate Replacement Application Form,' and submit your old license plate to the office. Once a vehicle license plate is canceled, it cannot be retrieved, but you can apply for a new license plate. The process of changing the license plate usually takes about seven days.

[VonRonan]

I just completed the license plate cancellation process, which turned out to be simpler than expected. There are mainly two scenarios: vehicle scrapping or outbound transfer. For scrapping an old car, you must first obtain a scrapping certificate from an authorized recycling plant, then bring your ID card, vehicle license, registration certificate, and license plates to the DMV to fill out an application form. The most crucial step is surrendering the license plates - many people forget to bring them and get turned away. If selling the car to another region, the original plates will be automatically canceled only after the new owner completes the transfer process. The entire procedure takes about 2 hours, but remember to keep copies of the cancellation certificate as some insurance settlements require it. Checking the local DMV queue situation in advance will save you time.

[CarolineMarie]

As someone who frequently handles vehicle procedures, I recommend downloading the form from the DMV website first when canceling license plates. The essential materials include the original ID card, vehicle registration certificate, and both license plates—the vehicle license is not actually required. The three most crucial steps are: prepare the scrap recycling receipt or used car transaction invoice; bring the license plates and vehicle license in a bag; and directly process at the service counter without an appointment. Two important reminders: you must handle it in person, and any vehicle violations must be cleared first, or you’ll have to make two trips. The entire process costs a 20-yuan administrative fee, which is much cheaper than getting new plates.

[VonElias]

Remember last month when I handled my dad's license plate cancellation, it took me two trips to get it done. First, you have to call to confirm the DMV branch address – many sub-offices don’t handle cancellation services. The essential five items are: ID card, vehicle ownership certificate, registration, old plates, and a bank card to pay the processing fee. For scrapped vehicles, you’ll additionally need the green-certified proof issued by the metal recycling company. If it’s just a natural retirement, you can go straight to the counter. The staff will destroy the plates on the spot, and you’ll receive a stamped cancellation form with a red seal immediately to confirm completion. Never use scalpers for this – everything’s electronically reviewed now, so they’re unnecessary.