How to Get an Arizona License Plate: A Complete Guide
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Any Arizona resident who drives their vehicle in the state must have an Arizona license plate. You're required by law to register your vehicle with the state if you're a resident, and your vehicle license plate serves as proof of that registration. Here, we'll walk you through the process of getting plates for the first time and cover everything you need to know about license plates in Arizona, from new plates to renewals to replacements.
Eligibility and Requirements for a New Arizona License Plate
When you buy or lease a new vehicle in Arizona, you must apply for a title within 15 days of purchase and complete the title transfer before you can register your car. (Most dealerships can help with this process.) This is important to note because you only have 15 days to complete your vehicle registration in the state after getting a new car or relocating, and you'll need the title to do so.
You can register a new vehicle online or in person at an Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) office. Making an appointment to complete the process in person is the best way to avoid any hiccups with your first registration.
To register a car and get your license plate, you'll need:
- A valid driver's license, U.S. passport, or government-issued ID
- Proof of residency
- Proof of insurance
- Proof of ownership (the title)
- An emissions test
- Payment of registration fees
Provided you have all the documentation on hand, the process shouldn't take too long.
How to Transfer an Arizona License Plate Between Vehicles
Arizona allows you to transfer a current license plate to a new vehicle. To transfer a license plate, follow these steps:
- If buying from a licensed dealer, give them the license plate number.
- Complete the dealer's form.
- Receive a Temporary Registration Plate (TRP) and use it until the new registration arrives.
- Replace the TRP with the transferred plate and new tabs.
- If you already paid registration fees, request a credit.
If you sell your car but want to keep your license plate, you can transfer it to a new vehicle by:
- Removing the license plate from the sold vehicle.
- Completing a Sold Notice on the MVD website.
- Waiting for approval from the MVD to transfer or destroy the plate.
- Transferring the title to the buyer.
Replacing Lost or Damaged Arizona License Plates
If you've lost a plate or it has become damaged or illegible, you can request a replacement license plate on the MVD website, visit an MVD or Authorized Third Party office in person, or send a plate application with a check or money order for $5 plus postage and handling to the MVD.
Specialty and Personalized Arizona License Plate Options
Arizona has a huge selection of specialty license plates to choose from and allows you to create personalized plates. You can choose from service-related license plates, antique plate designs, sports team plates, and more. These optional plates require you to fill out a special plate application and pay specialty plate fees ranging from $8 to $50 per year. (Personalized plates are $25 per year.)
If you have a disability and meet eligibility requirements, you may also be eligible for an Arizona disabled license plate.
Fees and Payment Options for Arizona License Plates
Unless you're getting a specialty or personalized plate, the cost of license plates is included in your vehicle registration. Initial registration fees depend on the type of vehicle, with a fee of $2.80 per $100 of the assessed value for new vehicles and $2.89 per $100 for used vehicles. You'll receive a rear plate only, since Arizona is one of 20 states that do not require front plates.
Renewal Guidelines for Arizona License Plates
Arizona issues renewal notices to help you remember when it's time to renew your registration and plates. Registration expires on either the 15th or last day of the month. To renew a license plate in Arizona, you must renew your registration, which requires:
- A valid driver's license, U.S. passport, or government-issued ID
- Proof of residency
- Proof of insurance
- Proof of ownership
- Emissions testing, if applicable
You can renew online, in person, or by mail. Once you've renewed your registration, you can keep your current license plates.
Resources for Arizona License Plate Services
For more information about vehicle license plates in Arizona, check out the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) services page.
Get Affordable Car Insurance in Arizona and Stay Compliant
Driving with an Arizona license plate is an important step in abiding by state laws, and so is having adequate Arizona car insurance that meets state minimum requirements. But not only should your insurance be compliant, it should also offer enough coverage to protect you and your property in the event of an accident. Use EverQuote's comparison tools to find policies and rates that fit your budget and give you the coverage you need.