Why Replace Both License Plates When Only One is Damaged?

[Ria]

If one license plate is damaged, fees for both plates are required. Below are the relevant regulations: 1. Article 44: When motor vehicle license plates or registration certificates are lost, missing, or damaged, the vehicle owner must apply for replacement at the local vehicle management office where the vehicle is registered. During application, the owner must complete an application form and submit identification documents. 2. Article 11: If motor vehicle registration certificates, license plates, or registration certificates are lost or damaged, the vehicle owner applying for replacement must submit personal identification and application materials to the traffic management department of the public security authority. After verification with the motor vehicle registration records, the traffic management department will issue replacements within 15 days of receiving the application.

[DeCharlie]

Replacing both license plates when only one is damaged is primarily due to safety and regulatory concerns. Here's how I understand it: Many jurisdictions require that front and rear license plates must match and display identical numbers. Otherwise, drivers risk being fined if spotted by traffic police. For instance, a friend of mine once replaced only one plate, but the new one didn't match the color of the old one. As a result, he was frequently pulled over by officers who suspected it was a cloned plate, requiring lengthy explanations before being let go. This not only poses risks but also wastes time. Additionally, new and old plates may differ in material, leading to uneven aging over time—one may appear brighter while the other duller. This inconsistency in brightness during nighttime driving can compromise road safety. Therefore, for peace of mind and safety, it's advisable to replace both plates at once. Aesthetics also come into play; a significant disparity between new and old plates can make the vehicle look unkempt and less appealing. In the long run, investing in a pair of new plates proves more economical by avoiding potential hassles down the road.

[BrantleyMarie]

Replacing both license plates when only one is damaged might seem wasteful, but it actually makes more economic sense. As a car owner, I've thought this through: buying a single replacement plate at a repair shop could cost more than purchasing a pair, since manufacturers typically produce them in matching sets, making it hard to find a perfect single replacement. If you buy just one new plate, its color and material might not match the old one, and when the other plate fails soon after, you'll waste time and gas making another trip to the shop. Replacing both often comes with discounts or free installation, lowering overall costs. Plus, license plates are made of plastic or metal and age at similar rates under sun and rain—replacing both ensures balanced durability and reduces repeat repairs. Last year, I replaced just one plate, only for the other to crack two months later, forcing another repair trip—a huge hassle. It's better to replace both upfront for convenience and safety. This approach optimizes long-term cost control and maintenance.

[DeKathryn]

Changing both license plates is for aesthetics and coordination. I simply prefer a neat car appearance. If the old and new plates differ too much in height or color, it looks tacky when driving around. For example, if the old plate has yellowed while the new one is bright white, the inconsistency is obvious at a glance. Friends riding in the car might even joke that it looks like a patchwork vehicle. It's not just about face—license plates are part of the car, and when they match, the overall presence is more imposing. If only the damaged plate is replaced, the material might not be compatible with the old one, making it prone to damage again. Replacing both at once prevents future issues.