What is the Difference Between Replacing a Lost License Plate and Exchanging a License Plate?
4 Answers
Replacing a lost license plate and exchanging a license plate differ in nature: replacing a lost license plate means obtaining a new one by presenting credentials when the original is lost; exchanging a license plate means replacing an old one with a new one. The time required for replacing a lost license plate and exchanging a license plate is the same. In both cases, you need to fill out an application form for replacing or exchanging a motor vehicle license plate, and bring the vehicle registration certificate and the original ID card of the vehicle owner to the local vehicle management office for processing. License plate is the common term for vehicle plate, which are plates hung on the front and rear of a vehicle, usually made of aluminum, iron, plastic, or paper, engraved with the vehicle's registration number, registration region, or other relevant information.
Last time my license plate was stolen, and I was so anxious that I had to go to the DMV to get a replacement. A replacement is when you reapply for a license plate after it's lost or damaged, keeping the original number. The process is quite troublesome: you need to bring your ID, vehicle registration, a police report proving the loss, spend about a hundred bucks, and wait in line for two hours to get it done. Getting a new license plate is different—it's when you actively apply for a new number, like when your new car arrives and you want a personalized plate, or when switching from a fuel-powered car to a new energy vehicle requires an update. The number might change, and the process is simpler: just book an appointment online, pay a few dozen bucks, bring all the required documents, and get it done on the spot. The key difference is: a replacement is a last resort, keeping the same number; getting a new plate is an active choice, possibly with a new number. Drive carefully, don’t slack off on closing your windows when parking, and save yourself the hassle.
Having repaired so many cars, I often encounter owners asking about this. Replacing a lost license plate means the plate is lost or damaged, and you must reapply for the original number—it's an emergency matter. You need to go to the traffic police station to get a certificate, bring the vehicle documents, pay the fee, and complete the procedures, usually costing just over a hundred yuan. Applying for a new license plate is voluntarily changing to a new number, such as when you move and want to change the regional code, or when upgrading your vehicle requires a new energy license plate—the number usually changes. The process is smoother, with online form filling and appointment, costing around 80-90 yuan. The difference is clear: replacing a lost plate keeps the original number to prevent misuse, while applying for a new one may change the number, involving personal choice. It's recommended that owners regularly check the license plate screws and tighten them if loose to avoid accidental loss. If a plate is lost, report it to the police immediately—don't let a small issue become a big problem.
I think this matter is about money and time. Replacing a lost license plate is when your plate is missing and you need a replacement, keeping the same number as the original. It's a hassle: first, get a theft report from the police station, then take your ID and documents to the DMV, spend about a hundred bucks, and possibly waste half a day. On the other hand, renewing a license plate is actively changing to a new number, like when relocating your car to another city or upgrading to a new energy plate, where the number might differ. The process is simpler: make an online appointment, pay a few dozen bucks, bring the required materials, and get it done directly, saving both time and money. The key difference: replacing is a passive fix with the same number; renewing is an active improvement with a new number. A reminder to everyone: check your license plate before heading out, don't be careless. Save money and stay worry-free.
