Do I have to turn in my license plates when I cancel auto insurance?
All drivers must turn in license plates when they cancel their insurance. Turning in your license plate is usually required when you cancel your auto insurance policy or sell your car. While it depends on the state, driving without insurance can result in fines up to $5,000 and as much as six months of jail time.
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Michael Leotta
Insurance Operations Specialist
Michael earned a degree in Business Management with an insurance focus, which led to a successful 25-year career in insurance claims operations and support. He possesses a high-level of business acumen across multiple areas of the insurance industry. Over the course of his career, he served in multiple roles supporting claims operations including: Claims Specialist, Claims Trainer, Claim Automatio...
Insurance Operations Specialist
UPDATED: Jun 8, 2024
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Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Jun 8, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider.
Our insurance industry partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
- In most states, you must return a license plate if you sell a vehicle
- You must also cancel the license plate if you no longer insure your vehicle
- How to return tags to the DMV and if you have to return old license plates varies by state
Today, we’re explaining everything you need to know about turning in your license plate when you cancel auto insurance to help you with understanding auto insurance laws. Since most states require some form of auto insurance, you must keep insurance if you plan to drive at all.
Read on for a more in-depth answer to the question: Do I have to turn in my license plates when I cancel insurance? Also, it is a great time to compare auto insurance quotes to get the cheapest rates out there, even if you are canceling insurance and turning in your license plates. Enter your ZIP code to start comparing auto insurance quotes today.
When Do I Need to Turn in License Plates and Cancel my Registration?
Do I need to return my license plates? How long do I have to return my license plates? Specific rules can vary between states. However, you must cancel your registration and surrender your license plates if:
- You have dropped vehicle liability insurance for any reason. It’s recommended that you surrender your plates before you cancel the insurance.
- You have sold or got rid of a vehicle and do not plan to use the plates on another vehicle.
- Your vehicle will be stored or be undergoing repairs for a lengthy period of time and you do not want to maintain liability insurance or registration during this time.
Are you required to turn in license plates? What states require you to return license plates? Certain states require you to keep your plates and use them or turn them into the DMV.
For example, turning in license plates in SC is required if you are not transferring them to a new vehicle. The same is true if you cancel plates in MA. However, if you cancel a Louisiana license plate, you can either destroy it, turn it in, or keep it if it is a specialty plate.
So how long do I have to turn in my plates? Some states have different rules for different types of plates. For example, 30 – 60 days to turn in NY license plates, depending on the type of license plate you have.
Generally, you have 30 days or 60 days to use the plates on another vehicle (30 days for a specialty plate and 60 days for an ordinary plate). If you have gone beyond this 30 day or 60 day period without registering a new vehicle, then you are required to surrender your plates.
What happens if you don’t return license plates? And what happens if you don’t surrender your plates? Rules vary between states. Check with your state’s DMV to verify if turning in a license plate is necessary. Also license can be canceled if the holder fails to maintain the required insurance coverage for their vehicle.
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How Do I Turn in my License Plates?
You may be required to surrender your license plate if you cancel the insurance without planning to renew it.
Where can I turn my license plate in? Do I have to go to the DMV to turn in plates or can I cancel my plates elsewhere?
Typically, you can turn in a license plate at a number of different state agencies – including your DMV or a local tax collector’s office. Your state’s Department of Revenue should have a list of tax collector’s offices in your area. You should receive a receipt showing the date your license plate was surrendered.
Will I receive a refund when I surrender my plates? You may receive a refund on your vehicle registration fees. If you paid $150 to register your vehicle for the year, for example, and canceled your registration after 6 months, then you might receive a refund of $75.
Can I Surrender my Plates Temporarily?
Yes, in most states you can temporarily surrender your license plates. For example, you may have chosen to stop driving for a while. You can turn in your plates and cancel your insurance until you decide to take up driving again.
You may also be forced to surrender your plates if your driving privilege was revoked for reckless driving or a DUI. If you want to know, what to do if your license plate is revoked? In cases like these, you are legally required to surrender your plates for the specified amount of days or months.
Do you need to turn in plates to cancel insurance?
Can I cancel car insurance before turning in plates? What happens if you don’t turn in your old license plates? In most states, you can’t cancel insurance before returning plates.
So, do you have to surrender plates before cancelling insurance? Some insurance companies and some states require surrendering license plates before canceling auto insurance.
You first need to submit proof of surrendering your license plate in order to cancel your auto insurance policy.
What do you need to turn in license plates? Go to your local DMV or tax collector’s office and surrender your plate to receive a receipt. Then, submit the receipt to your insurance company to complete the cancellation process.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, about 13 percent of drivers in the US are uninsured, and some states require this process to reduce the number of uninsured drivers. They don’t want you to cancel your auto insurance and then drive to the DMV in an uninsured vehicle to surrender your plates.
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What if my License Plate is Lost, Stolen, or Destroyed?
What do you do if your license plate was lost, stolen, or destroyed before you could turn it in? The best thing to do is to file a police report. Once you have a police report record, submit it to the DMV as proof.
If you need to get a new license plate issued at a later date, you will usually have to pay a small fee. You will also need the following to get a new plate issued:
- Old license plate or police report
- Vehicle registration
- Proof of insurance
- Driver’s license
Of course, if you don’t need a new plate, you can simply report your plate missing and call it a day.
How is Auto Insurance is Different than Car Registration?
Is auto insurance tied to the registration? First, let’s clarify something. You get a license plate for your vehicle when you register your vehicle with the DMV. Your license plate is linked to your vehicle registration. It is not directly linked to your auto insurance.
When you buy auto insurance, you will receive proof of insurance documentation. You can show this documentation when a police officer asks for proof of insurance.
However, there is some connection between your car registration and auto insurance. Your insurance company is required to communicate with the DMV regarding your insurance status. In most states, you must have auto insurance if you have a registered vehicle.
Driving without auto insurance has different penalties by state. Search for your state in the box below to see fines and other penalties for driving without insurance.
Penalties for Driving Without Auto Insurance by State| States | Penalties |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Up to $500, Registration suspension with $200 reinstatement fee |
| Alaska | License suspension for 90 days |
| Arizona | $500 (or more), License/registration/license plate suspension for three months |
| Arkansas | $50 to $250, Suspended registration/no plates until proof of car insurance coverage plus $20 reinstatement fee; court may order impoundment |
| California | $100-$200 plus penalty assessments, Court may order impoundment |
| Colorado | $500 minimum fine, 4 points against your license; license suspension until you can show proof to the DMV that you are insured. Courts may add up to 40 hours community service |
| Connecticut | $100-$1000, Suspended registration/license for one month (show proof of insurance) with $175 reinstatement fee |
| Delaware | $1,500 minimum fine, License/privilege suspension for six months |
| Florida | Suspension of license and registration until reinstatement fee is paid and non-cancelable coverage is secured; $150 fee for first reinstatement |
| Georgia | Suspended registration with $25 lapse fee and $60 reinstatement fee. Pay any other registration fees and vehicle ad valorem taxes due |
| Hawaii | $500 fine or community service granted by judge, Either license suspension for three months or a required nonrefundable car insurance policy in force for six months |
| Idaho | $75, License suspension until financial proof. No reinstatement fee. |
| Illinois | $500 minimum, License plate suspension until $100 reinstatement fee and insurance proof |
| Indiana | License/registration suspension for 90 days to one year |
| Iowa | $500 if in accident; Otherwise, fine: $250, Community service in lieu of fine. Possible citation/warning if pulled over plus removal of plates and registration possible when pulled over without insurance and reissued upon payment of fine or completed community service, proof of insurance, and $15 fee; possible impoundment when pulled over |
| Kansas | $300 to $1,000, Fine and/or confinement in jail up to six months; license/registration suspension; reinstatement fee: $100 |
| Kentucky | $500 to $1,000, Fine and/or sentenced up to 90 days in jail; license plates and registration revoked for one year or until proof of insurance is shown |
| Louisiana | $500 to $1,000, If in car accident, fine plus registration revoked and driving privileges suspended for 180 days |
| Maine | $100 to $500, Suspension of license and registration until proof of insurance |
| Maryland | Lose license plates and motor vehicle registration privileges; pay uninsured motorist penalty fees for each lapse of insurance — $150 for the first 30 days, $7 for each day thereafter; Pay a restoration fee of up to $25 for a vehicle's registration |
| Massachusetts | $500 to $5,000, Fine and/or imprisonment for one year or less |
| Michigan | $200 to $500, Fine and/or imprisonment for one year or less; license suspension for 30 days or until proof of insurance; $25 service fee to Secretary of State |
| Minnesota | $200 to $1,000, Fine (or community service) and/or imprisonment for up to 90 days; License and registration revoked for no more than 12 months |
| Mississippi | $1,000, Driving privileges suspended for one year or until proof of insurance |
| Missouri | Four points against driving record; driver may be supervised; suspended until proof of insurance with $20 reinstatement fee |
| Montana | $250 to $500, Fine and/or imprisonment for no more than 10 days |
| Nebraska | License and registration suspension; reinstatement fee of $50 for each; proof of insurance to remain on file for three years |
| Nevada | $250 to $1,000, Registration suspension — until payment of reinstatement fee and, depending on circumstances, an SR-22 (proof of financial responsibility) if lapsed more than 90 days; reinstatement fee: $250 |
| New Hampshire | Not a mandatory insurance state. Proof of insurance may be required as the result of a conviction, crash involvement, or administrative action. If you are required to file proof of insurance and vehicles are registered in your name, you will be required to file an Owner’s SR-22 Certificate of Insurance. |
| New Jersey | $300 to $1,000, License suspension for one year; pay surcharges for three years in the amount of $250 per year |
| New Mexico | Up to $300, Fine and/or imprisoned for 90 days; license suspension |
| New York | Up to $1,500 if involved in accident plus $750 civil penalty, "License and registration suspension – revoked for one year; suspension of license if without insurance for 90 days; suspension lasts as long as registration suspension; Suspension of registration: equal to time without insurance or pays $8/day up to thirty days for which financial security was not in effect, $10/day from the thirty-first to the sixtieth day $12/day from the sixtieth to the ninetieth day and proof of security is provided. Or for the same time as the motor vehicle was operated without insurance. " |
| North Carolina | $50, Registration suspension until proof of financial responsibility but 30-day suspension if in car accident or knowingly driving without insurance; $50 restoration fee plus license plate fee |
| North Dakota | Up to $1,500, "Fine and/or 30 days in prison; 14 points against license plus suspension; Proof of insurance must be provided for one year; license with a notation requiring that person keep proof of liability insurance on file with the department. The fee for this license is $50, and the fee to remove this notation is $50." |
| Ohio | License/plates/registration suspension until requirements are met and $100 reinstatement fee is paid; maintain special high-risk coverage on file with the BMV for three to five years; If involved in accident without insurance: all above penalties and a security suspension for two plus years and an indefinite judgment suspension (until all damages are satisfied) |
| Oklahoma | $250, Jail time up to 30 days; license suspension with $275 reinstatement fee. Police can seize license plates and assign temporary plates and liability insurance — in effect for 10 days and can also impound the vehicle. The cost of the temporary coverage is added to the administrative fee and any fines paid for plates to be returned. If the car isimpounded, the owner must also pay towing and storage fees. |
| Oregon | $130-$1000 ($260 is the presumptive fine), If involved in accident — at least a one year license suspension; proof of financial responsibility required for three years |
| Pennsylvania | Registration suspended for three months (unless lapse was for less than 31 days and vehicle not operated during that time); $88 restoration fee plus proof of insurance required to get it back; $500 civil penalty fee is optional in lieu of registration suspension plus $88 restoration fee — can only use this option once within a 12-month period |
| Rhode Island | $100 to $500, License and registration suspension up to three months; reinstatement fee: $30 to $50 |
| South Carolina | $100-$200, Fine or 30-day imprisonment; failure to surrender registration and plates when insurance lapses; license/registration suspended until proof of insurance plus $200 reinstatement fee |
| South Dakota | $100, Fine and/or 30 days imprisonment; license suspension for 30 days to one year; filing proof of insurance (SR-22) with the state for three years from date of conviction. Failure to file proof will result in suspension of vehicle registration, license plates, and driver license. |
| Tennessee | Pay $25 coverage failure fee within 30 days of notice; if not paid, then an additional $100 coverage failure fee with suspension or revocation of registration plus reinstatement fee of no more than $25 |
| Texas | $175 to $350, Pay up to a $250 surcharge every year for three years (may be reduced with certain requirements) |
| Utah | $400, License suspension until proof of insurance (maintained for three years) and $100 reinstatement fee |
| Vermont | Up to $500, License suspended until proof of insurance |
| Virginia | May pay $500, Uninsured Motorists Vehicle fee to drive without insurance at your own risk. If this fee is not paid in lieu of insurance, all driving and vehicle registration privileges will be suspended until a $500 statutory fee is paid, proof of insurance is filed for three years, and a reinstatement fee (if applicable) is paid |
| Washington, D.C. | Up to $250 or more |
| West Virginia | $200 to $5,000, License suspended for 30 days with reinstatement fees, unless there's proof of insurance and $200 penalty fee |
| Wisconsin | Up to $500 |
| Wyoming | Up to $750, Up to six months in jail |
You can see that even first offenses carry hefty fines and other penalties. Driving without auto insurance can cost you big money, not only in fines but damages if you are in an accident.
Read more: If my car registration expires is my auto insurance still valid?
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Why Do Insurance Companies Submit Information to the DMV?
Your car registration and auto insurance are connected in some ways. Most importantly, your auto insurance company is required to electronically transmit insurance coverage details to your state’s DMV. Your auto insurance company will notify the DMV if you cancel insurance coverage.
Generally, insurance companies have 30 days from the date coverage begins and ends to transmit insurance information. The DMV enters this insurance information into a database. That database includes your vehicle’s license plate number, insurance status, and other details.
Most states require you to carry some form of liability insurance. Your registration will also be canceled if you cancel your auto insurance and do not immediately obtain coverage.
Even a 1 day lapse in car insurance coverage can lead to a registration suspension in certain states. Laws vary between states but there are criminal penalties for driving without insurance in every state.
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Does the DMV Charge Lapse Fees for Insurance?
States have different laws regarding lapsed coverage. Many states, however, charge a lapse fee. You may be charged a fee of $25 to $50, just one of the dangers of letting your auto insurance lapse.
In some states, for example, you are required to pay a lapse fee if you do not obtain new auto insurance within 10 days of canceling your old auto insurance. The DMV can then suspend your vehicle’s registration If you do not pay this fee within 30 days.
Some states even charge a daily lapse fee for every day your vehicle goes without coverage.
Generally, you are required to turn in your license plate and cancel your registration before canceling your auto insurance in most states. Driving without insurance can hurt your wallet and could cause you jail time or loss of your license.
Now that we’ve clarified what happens with your plates when you cancel your insurance, take a minute to compare rates. Enter your ZIP now to compare auto insurance quotes to find the cheapest auto insurance for you, even if you intend to have a turn in your license plate, clearly state that you want to cancel your car insurance policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer my license plates to another vehicle?
In many states, you can transfer your license plates from one vehicle to another as long as both vehicles are registered in your name. However, there may be specific requirements and fees associated with the transfer process, so it’s best to check with your local DMV for the exact procedure.
What should I do if I sell my vehicle but want to keep my personalized/specialty license plates?
If you sell your vehicle but wish to retain your personalized or specialty license plates, you will need to contact your local DMV to understand the specific requirements and process. In some cases, you may be required to surrender the old plates and obtain new ones for your next vehicle.
Can I keep my license plates if I cancel my insurance temporarily?
The rules regarding keeping license plates when canceling insurance temporarily vary by state. Some states may allow you to retain your plates, while others may require surrendering them during the period of insurance cancellation. It’s important to consult your local DMV to determine the regulations in your state.
Can I use my old license plates on a newly purchased vehicle?
In general, you cannot use your old license plates on a newly purchased vehicle. Each vehicle requires its own set of license plates, which must be registered and issued specifically for that vehicle. Transferring license plates from one vehicle to another is usually not allowed.
What should I do if my license plates are damaged or unreadable?
If your license plates are damaged or unreadable, you should contact your local DMV for instructions on obtaining a replacement. Typically, you will need to provide the necessary documentation and pay a fee to receive new license plates.
Can I lend my vehicle to someone else without changing the license plates?
Generally, the license plates on a vehicle are associated with the registered owner and not the driver. Therefore, you can lend your vehicle to someone else without changing the license plates, as long as the driver has a valid driver’s license and the vehicle is properly insured.
How long do I have to turn in my license plate after cancelling my insurance?
The time frame for turning in your license plate after canceling insurance varies by state. It can range from immediately to within a few weeks. It’s important to check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency for specific requirements.
Why do I have to surrender my license plate?
Why do you have to surrender your license plate? Surrendering your license plate after canceling your insurance is required to ensure that no uninsured vehicles are on the road. This helps maintain road safety and compliance with state laws.
How do I cancel my license plate?
To cancel your license plate, gather your vehicle title or registration card and proof of identity. Complete the cancellation form from the DMV website or office. Submit the form and return the plates to your local DMV office. Ensure you receive confirmation of the cancellation.
How do you cancel car registration?
So, how to cancel registration on car? To cancel your car registration, check your state’s requirements on the DMV website. Prepare your vehicle title or registration card, proof of identity, and required forms. Visit the DMV office or mail the documents. Pay any applicable fees and obtain confirmation of the cancellation.
How do I notify the DMV that I sold my car?
To notify the DMV that you sold your car, complete and sign a bill of sale with the buyer. Fill out the notice of sale form from the DMV and include vehicle details and the buyer’s information. Submit the form to the DMV in person, by mail, or online. Keep a copy of the notice and any confirmation.
Can I cancel car insurance if I sell my car?
Can I cancel my car insurance if I sell my car? Yes, you can cancel your car insurance if you sell your car. Once the vehicle is no longer in your possession, you are no longer required to insure it. However, you should notify your insurance company promptly and provide them with any necessary documentation of the sale to ensure a smooth cancellation process.
Can I cancel my registration online?
So, cancel my car registration online and how do I cancel my registration? Yes, in many states, you can cancel registration online through the DMV or equivalent agency’s website. This option provides a convenient way to complete the process without visiting a DMV office in person.
Can I cancel insurance before surrendering plates?
Yes, you can cancel your insurance before surrendering plates. However, it’s essential to check your state’s requirements, as some may require you to surrender plates before canceling insurance to avoid penalties.
Are you supposed to turn in old license plates?
Yes, in many states, you are required to turn in old license plates when canceling registration or insurance. This helps prevent fraudulent use and ensures compliance with state laws.
Can anyone return plates to the DMV?
Typically, the registered owner of the vehicle or an authorized representative can return plates to the DMV. Check your state’s DMV guidelines for specific requirements.
Can you sell a car with suspended registration?
Selling a car with suspended registration depends on state regulations. In some states, you may be able to sell it, but the buyer may need to address the registration issue before using the vehicle legally.
Can an unregistered car be insured?
It’s unlikely that you can insure an unregistered car. Insurance companies typically require vehicles to be registered to provide coverage. Check with insurance providers for specific requirements.
How do you cancel a license plate?
To cancel a license plate, contact your state’s DMV or equivalent agency. They will provide instructions on how to return or cancel the plate, which may vary depending on state regulations.
Can I get insurance without a license plate?
Insurance companies typically require a vehicle’s license plate number to provide coverage. However, you may be able to obtain insurance with other vehicle information, such as the VIN, while waiting for plates.
Can I get plates without insurance?
In many states, you need proof of insurance to obtain license plates. However, requirements vary by state, so check with your local DMV for specific guidelines.
Can I get insurance without registration?
Insurance companies may require vehicle registration to provide coverage. However, some insurers offer policies for newly purchased vehicles without registration, so it’s best to inquire with insurance providers.
Do I have to surrender my license plate?
In many states, you are required to surrender your license plate when canceling registration or insurance. Failure to do so may result in penalties or fines.
Do I have to change car insurance if I move states?
Yes, you typically need to update your car insurance when you move to a new state. Each state has its insurance requirements, so it’s essential to inform your insurer and obtain coverage that meets the new state’s regulations.
Do I need an appointment to drop off license plates?
Some DMVs may require appointments to drop off license plates, while others accept walk-ins. Check your state’s DMV website or contact them directly for their specific procedures.
Can I pause my car registration?
Some states offer options to temporarily suspend or place a registration on hold, usually for specific reasons such as deployment or out-of-state travel. Contact your state’s DMV for information on pausing registration.
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Michael Leotta
Insurance Operations Specialist
Michael earned a degree in Business Management with an insurance focus, which led to a successful 25-year career in insurance claims operations and support. He possesses a high-level of business acumen across multiple areas of the insurance industry. Over the course of his career, he served in multiple roles supporting claims operations including: Claims Specialist, Claims Trainer, Claim Automatio...
Insurance Operations Specialist
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.