How to Handle License Plates After Selling a Car?
2 Answers
If the owner has used the license plate for more than 3 years, they can have priority in continuing to use it. License plates that do not meet the criteria will be returned to the national license plate pool. Below is extended information about retaining license plates: 1. Process: When selling an old car and preparing to buy a new one, if you wish to retain the original license plate, you must go through the application process. Generally, after selling the old car, you can immediately go to the vehicle management office to apply for retaining the original license plate. This way, when you buy a new car, you can apply to use the original license plate again. After applying to retain the old license plate, it will only be held for 6 months. If within these 6 months, the owner does not purchase a new car or complete the relevant procedures, they will lose the original license plate. 2. Required Fees: The required fees generally include processing fees, material costs, etc., totaling around 200 yuan, though this may vary slightly in different regions. 3. Material Preparation: You will need the owner's ID card and a copy, the vehicle's factory certificate, annual inspection certificate, compulsory traffic insurance proof, proof of purchase tax payment, proof of vehicle origin, and all materials submitted during the vehicle registration process. Additionally, you must fill out and submit the "Motor Vehicle Transfer or Registration Application Form."
When I sold my old car last year, the license plate issue was something worth mentioning. At that time, the buyer and I agreed to go to the DMV together to complete the transfer—the license plate was transferred along with the car, so never remove it yourself as a keepsake! Because the license plate contains the vehicle’s registration information, improper handling could lead to misuse by others, resulting in fines or even identity theft. At the DMV, the staff guided us through the process: once the buyer took over, the plate became theirs, and I was no longer responsible. Before selling the car, I also checked the policies—some places allow you to keep the original license plate number, but you need to apply for it. If left unaddressed, it might affect future new car purchases. The whole process took some time, but it ensured everything was safe and hassle-free. I recommend handling the paperwork as soon as possible after selling a car to avoid complications. Also, keep the transfer receipt just in case you need to verify it later.
