How to Replace a Lost Car License Plate? Can I Get It the Same Day?
3 Answers
For individuals who need to replace their license plates due to loss, the vehicle owner must fill out and submit the required documents. It is definitely not possible to receive the new license plate on the same day, as producing a new plate takes a certain amount of time. However, the owner can apply for a temporary license plate, allowing the vehicle to be legally driven on the road before the new plate is issued. Below is relevant information about temporary license plates: 1. Introduction: A temporary license plate is a paper-based motor vehicle license issued for temporary road use, also known as a temporary driving license plate. It serves as a temporary vehicle permit issued by the vehicle management department before the new vehicle is officially registered. 2. Categories: Temporary license plates are generally valid for no more than thirty days. There are four types: temporary plates for administrative jurisdictions, temporary plates for cross-administrative jurisdictions, temporary plates for testing purposes, and temporary plates for special types of motor vehicles.
When my license plate fell off, I was really in a panic and immediately drove to the nearest vehicle management office. I brought basic documents like my ID card and vehicle registration, filled out an application form, and paid a fee of a few dozen yuan. Some places are efficient—if you go early or make an appointment in advance, they can make a new plate on the spot, and you can get it the same day. But don’t count on it for sure; big cities might be easier, while small towns may take a few days. They’ll give you a temporary plate to use in the meantime—just remember not to drive around without a proper plate, or you might get fined by traffic police, which would be even more frustrating. Last time I did this, it only took me half a day to sort it out. I recommend checking your license plate screws regularly to see if they’re loose and installing anti-theft ones to avoid losing them again. If you don’t get it the same day, don’t be discouraged—just keep your contact info ready and wait for their notification.
Having driven for decades, I've seen too many cases of lost license plates. The replacement process isn't complicated: head straight to the vehicle management office with your ID and vehicle registration documents, fill out an application in detail, and the fee is usually around 100 yuan. Whether you can get the new plate the same day depends on the specific office—some with sufficient resources might complete it that day, while remote areas may take a few days. They'll issue a temporary plate for the transition, valid for 30 days. The key is to avoid shady intermediaries—official channels are the most reliable. If your plate falls off, deal with it promptly; don’t delay. Getting caught driving without a plate means fines and points—not worth it. I also recommend always locking your car and regularly checking the mounting bolts—prevention saves hassle.
