Surrender California License Plates
Learn when and how to surrender California license plates, what forms you may need, where to mail them, and the exact fees you may encounter. This guide covers cancellations, turning in specialized plates, moving out of CA, and vehicle disposal so you stay compliant and avoid penalties.
To Surrender California License Plates:
- Decide why you’re surrendering: cancel insurance/registration, switch to specialty plates, move out of CA, or dispose/sell the vehicle.
- Complete required forms if applicable (e.g., REG 102 for Certificate of Non-Operation, REG 256 for Statement of Facts).
- Return plates in person at a CA DMV office or mail them with a brief note including your name, plate number, and VIN.
- Cancel or update registration and insurance the same day to avoid penalties.
Eligibility
- You are the registered owner or have documented authorization to act on behalf of the owner.
- Plates match the current vehicle record (same plate number and VIN pairing).
- No active law enforcement hold or registration block preventing transaction completion.
- For personalized/special interest plates: surrender is required upon cancellation, reassignment, or when directed by DMV.
Documents
- California License Plates
- Vehicle Registration Card
- Government-issued Photo ID
- Statement of Facts (Reg 256)
- Certificate of Non-operation (Reg 102)
- Application for Refund (Reg 65)
Fees & Costs
- Fee — $0 Plate surrender (turning in plates only)
- Fee — $23–$36 Replacement standard plates (if exchanging damaged/lost or changing types)
- Fee — $50–$103 Special interest/personalized plate reissue or exchange
- Fee — $23 Duplicate registration card (if needed)
- Fee — $23 Non-Operation filing (if switching to PNO at renewal)
FAQ
Do I have to surrender plates when I sell my car in California?
For a standard CA plate, surrender is not required when selling a vehicle within California; plates generally stay with the vehicle. You must, however, file a Report of Transfer and Release of Liability within 5 days. Specialty and personalized plates may need to be surrendered if you cancel or do not retain the configuration.
Where do I mail California plates I am surrendering?
Mail to: DMV—Special Processing Unit, P.O. Box 942869, Sacramento, CA 94269-0001. Include a note with your name, address, phone, plate number, and VIN, plus any applicable forms like REG 256.
Is there a fee to turn in my plates?
No. Surrendering plates alone is free. Fees apply only if you are requesting replacement plates, exchanging to specialty plates, or need duplicate documents.
Can I get a refund of registration fees after I cancel and surrender plates?
You may be eligible for a partial refund if you meet specific criteria. Submit REG 65 with supporting documentation (e.g., proof of cancellation date). Refunds are not guaranteed and depend on timing and usage.
Do I need to surrender plates if I move out of California?
Standard CA plates generally do not need to be returned to California. Register in your new state and file a CA Release of Liability online. If you have specialty or personalized plates you’re canceling, surrender them by mail to DMV—Special Processing Unit.
What if my plates are lost or stolen?
Report the loss to local law enforcement if theft is suspected. You do not surrender in this case; instead, apply for replacement plates at a DMV office and be prepared to pay a replacement fee (typically $23–$36).
State contact
Phone: (800) 777-0133
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Official site