Did you recently sell your car and remove the license plates? Do you have old plates hanging in your garage, or did you lose one? If so, you should be aware that New Jersey has strict rules regarding what you can and cannot do with old license plates.
License plates are more than just identification tools; they are essential for linking a vehicle to its registered owner and are even used for toll payments. Many towns now use license plate readers to track vehicles, especially with rising home invasions related to car theft. That’s why it’s crucial to handle your old or lost plates properly to avoid legal trouble.
Why Reporting Lost or Stolen License Plates is Important
If you lose your plates or they get stolen, you could be held responsible for any crimes or toll violations associated with them. This makes it vital to report missing plates immediately.
How to Report Lost or Stolen License Plates in New Jersey
If your car is still in use and your plates are missing, follow these steps:
✔ File a police report and keep a copy.
✔ Visit a Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) agency.
✔ Complete a Vehicle Registration/Plate Status form.
✔ Receive verification of the transaction from the MVC.
✔ Store the verification safely for proof.
If you no longer own the vehicle but your plates were stolen, you still need to file a report:
✔ Write to the MVC stating the plates were stolen.
✔ Include a signed statement explaining what happened.
✔ Attach a copy of the police report (if applicable).
✔ Provide your name, address, plate number, and signature.
Mail everything to:
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
Customer Advocacy Office
P.O. Box 403
Trenton, NJ 08666-0403
Once processed, you’ll receive a confirmation of the updated plate status. Keep this for your records.
Replacing Lost or Stolen License Plates
You can either get a new set of plates or have your current ones remade. Both require an in-person visit to the MVC.
Getting New Plates
✔ File a police report and obtain a copy.
✔ Visit the MVC with your registration and identification.
✔ Pay $6 for standard plates or $11 for special interest plates.
Replacing Damaged Plates
✔ Visit the MVC with your registration and ID.
✔ Pay the same fees ($6 for standard, $11 for special plates).
✔ Surrender your old plates.
Getting Duplicate Plates with the Same Number
✔ Visit an MVC agency to fill out the Application for Remaking an Existing Plate (Form SPU-89).
✔ Download the form or call (609) 292-6500 ext. 5061 to request it.
✔ Submit the form with a copy of your registration and an $11 payment.
✔ Expect your duplicate plates to arrive by mail in 10-12 weeks.
Transferring License Plates to a New Vehicle
You can transfer your existing plates only if the new vehicle is registered in the same name as the old one. However, leased vehicles often require new plates.
To transfer plates:
✔ Visit an MVC agency.
✔ Provide the new title and registration.
✔ Show proper identification.
What to Do with Old License Plates
If you have plates from a car you no longer own, you have two options:
- Return the plates to the MVC – This is the safest way to ensure they don’t end up being misused.
- Destroy them – If you choose to keep them, make sure they are defaced so they cannot be used illegally.
So, is it Illegal to Keep Old License Plates in New Jersey?
Technically, no, it’s not illegal. However, holding onto old plates without properly reporting or surrendering them can lead to potential misuse and liability.
Following these guidelines ensures you stay on the right side of the law while protecting yourself from unnecessary trouble.
Disclaimer – Our team has carefully fact-checked this article to make sure it’s accurate and free from any misinformation. We’re dedicated to keeping our content honest and reliable for our readers.
