Apply for License Plates in California
Get standard, special interest, or personalized California plates when you register a vehicle, replace lost or damaged plates, or transfer plates between vehicles. This guide covers eligibility, required documents, fees, and how to apply online, by mail, or in person.
Quick Start: How to Get California License Plates
- Gather documents: title/lease, proof of insurance (15/30/5 minimum), smog (if required), and ID.
- Complete the registration application and any specialty plate application if applicable.
- Submit online, by mail, or visit a DMV office; pay applicable fees (see fee table).
- Receive registration and plates or a pickup/mailed delivery; use a temporary operating permit if issued.
Eligibility
- You are a California resident registering or transferring a vehicle in CA.
- Vehicle meets insurance minimums (15/30/5) and smog requirements if applicable.
- All registration fees and taxes due are paid in full.
- No active DMV or law-enforcement holds (parking/toll citations, VIN issues).
- For personalized/special interest plates, the requested configuration is available and not prohibited.
Documents
- Ownership Document (Title or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin)
- Proof of Insurance (Meets Ca 15/30/5 Minimums)
- Smog Certificate (If Required)
- Valid Photo ID (Ca Driver License/ID or Other Acceptable ID)
- Odometer Disclosure (If Applicable)
Fees & Costs
- Fee — Included in registration (no separate plate fee) Standard plates with new registration
- Fee — $22–$25 Replacement standard plates (lost, stolen, damaged)
- Fee — $50–$103 Special interest plate (most designs) initial fee
- Fee — $49–$98 depending on plate type Personalized configuration add-on (initial)
- Fee — $38–$78 added to yearly registration Annual renewal for special interest/personalized plates
- Fee — $15–$25 Expedited processing (if offered for certain specialty plates)
FAQ
When do I need to apply for California plates after buying a vehicle?
You must complete the title transfer within 10 days of purchase. Plates are issued with registration; start the process immediately to avoid penalties.
Can I keep my current plates when I sell my car?
In California, plates generally stay with the vehicle, not the seller. Personalized and certain special interest plates may be retained by the owner and reassigned to another vehicle after completing the appropriate DMV process and fees.
How long does it take to receive specialty or personalized plates?
Standard plates are often issued same day at DMV offices. Specialty or personalized plates typically arrive within 2–8 weeks by mail or are sent to a DMV office for pickup. You will receive a notice when they are ready.
What insurance do I need to get plates?
California requires minimum liability coverage of 15/30/5 (bodily injury per person/per accident and property damage). Your insurer must electronically report coverage to DMV or you must provide acceptable proof.
My plates were lost or stolen. What should I do?
File a police report for stolen plates, then apply for replacement plates with the DMV. Bring your registration and ID, pay the replacement fee, and install the new plates as soon as they arrive.
State contact
Phone: (800) 777-0133
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Official site