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How to Keep the Original License Plate When Changing Cars?

6Answers
Margaret
08/29/2025, 11:08:55 PM

Here is the relevant introduction for retaining the license plate when changing cars: 1. The original license plate must have been used for more than one year: Previously, the license plate had to be used for more than three years to be retained, so many car owners who wanted to change cars waited for three years to keep their plates. Now, as long as it has been used for more than one year, you can apply to retain it. 2. All violations and accidents related to the original vehicle must be resolved: If there were any road violations or penalties incurred while driving the original vehicle, all fines must be paid, and there should be no unresolved traffic accidents before you can apply to retain the original license plate number. Otherwise, you will lose ownership of the original license plate, and it will be reclaimed by the vehicle management office.

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StColeman
09/11/2025, 03:14:22 AM

I understand you want to keep your original license plate when changing cars, which holds special meaning for many car owners. First, you must ensure your original plate has been continuously used for at least one year, and the plate must match the owner's information. The specific process is: First, go to the DMV to complete the deregistration of your old vehicle, remembering to bring your ID card, vehicle license, and vehicle registration certificate; immediately after deregistration, apply to retain the original plate number by filling out a form stating your intention to keep the number, and the DMV will issue a retention certificate. When purchasing a new car later, present this certificate during the new license plate application to reuse the original number. The entire process may take one to two weeks, so don't delay too long, as the retention is generally valid for six months. Also, don't worry about fees—only a small administrative fee is charged. If you're inexperienced, it's recommended to consult directly at the DMV; their procedures are well-practiced, avoiding potential errors from online operations.

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Melanie
10/25/2025, 04:05:33 AM

Keeping your license plate when changing cars is actually quite simple, the key is to prepare in advance. I've seen many people rush into changing cars and forget to keep their plates, only to regret it later. In terms of steps, make sure your original plate has been used for at least one year with no violation records. When you deregister your old car, you must actively apply to retain the license plate number, and the DMV will handle it. When you buy a new car, just declare the use of the original number during registration. Points to note: don't fill in the wrong information, the ID number must match the one used for the old car; timing is crucial, don't wait too long and lose the eligibility to retain the plate. If you encounter threshold issues, such as the license plate number being occupied, you can try to resolve it through communication. I personally went through this process once, and it went smoothly, taking only half a day to complete the formalities, so it's best to act early.

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MacAlaina
12/08/2025, 03:29:25 AM

The key to retaining a license plate is understanding the rules. The original plate must have been used for at least one year before it can be retained. After deregistering the old vehicle, apply to retain the plate, and then activate it when purchasing a new car. The entire process involves three steps: deregistration, plate retention registration, and assigning the plate to the new vehicle. When visiting the DMV, bring all necessary documents to complete everything in one trip and save time. The cost is minimal, usually just a few dozen yuan. Don't overlook details, such as verifying the consistency of the license plate number.

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IslaAnn
01/28/2026, 09:48:36 PM

Last time I changed my car, I kept my license plate, which was super convenient. Looking back, the DMV staff guided me step by step: first cancel the old vehicle registration, sign to confirm plate retention; then take the retention certificate to buy a new car, and directly select the original number during registration. The whole process went smoothly because I consulted the DMV hotline in advance. They reminded me to check whether the plate had reached its full usage period before cancellation, and not to rush. Keeping the plate not only saves money but also preserves personal style significance. Remember to handle it early.

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DeReese
04/24/2026, 02:24:16 AM

Want to keep your original license plate when changing cars? Remember these key points: The license plate must have been used for at least one year, and the owner information must match. The process is quick: Apply to retain the license plate when deregistering the old car, then use the original number for the new car after obtaining the certificate. Make sure all documents are accurate and complete, such as copies of your ID card and vehicle license. I recommend going to the DMV early to avoid delays. Additionally, if your original plate has special meaning, act promptly to protect it and don't let the opportunity slip away.

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