California License Plates
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California license plates are required for every vehicle registered in the Golden State. If you are interested in new California license plates or custom plates, this comprehensive guide explains everything from license plate styles to disabled plates to legislative plates and more for California vehicle owners.
In addition, it will detail the vehicle registration process so you always know how to get your California plates or handle California license renewal or replacement, whether you are looking for motorcycle plates, plates for trailer coaches and commercial motor vehicles, or special interest license plates.
How To Get California License Plates for the First Time
If you are a new resident or new driver in California, you will first need to get your driver's license and manage California car registration.
To register your vehicle, follow these steps:
- Fill out the state's Application for Title or Registration.
- Submit a completed smog certification from a California smog inspection station if your gas-powered car is from 1976 or later.
- Pay all relevant fees.
Once you have registered your vehicle with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), you can apply for California license plates. While you can apply for special plates and permanent plates online, you will need to apply for standard license plates in person at the DMV.
Required Documents for Registration & Application Process
- A valid driver's license
- Your vehicle title
- Your vehicle's vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Proof of insurance
Make sure you have these documents organized prior to your DMV visit to avoid having to make a repeat trip.
Steps To Renew California License Plates
California is known for its expensive license plate renewal costs. While costs vary based on your vehicle, the base fee is $46, plus a California Highway Patrol fee of $27. On top of that, you will pay a vehicle license fee of 0.65% of your vehicle's value as well as any applicable county fees and a transportation improvement fee.
Because California does not have a grace period for license plate renewal, it is important to organize your documents well ahead of time to avoid penalties.
Renewal Methods
California residents have several options for license plate renewal:
- You can renew your California plates up to 75 days ahead of time online.
- You can also visit a DMV kiosk or other California DMV location for in-person plate renewal.
- Finally, you will receive a renewal notice about three months before your plates expire and can mail it back to DMV Renewal at PO Box 942897, Sacramento, CA 94269-0001. You will need to provide proof of insurance, a smog check (if applicable), payment, and the completed form.
How To Replace Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Plates
If you need to replace lost, stolen, or damaged license plates in California, you can order replacement plates. If your plates are stolen, you should file a police report.
Filing a Police Report
To file a police report, you can contact your local police department and report the theft of your license plates. You will need to provide vehicle information as well as the number of the stolen license plates.
You will then receive a police report number, which you will provide to the DMV when applying for replacement plates. Be sure to maintain a copy of the report for future reference.
Getting Replacement Plates from the DMV
To get replacement license plates from the California DMV, you will need to provide the following documents:
- A completed replacement application
- The police report, if applicable
- Any applicable fees
Types of California License Plates Available
From California disabled veteran's license plates to California digital license plates, the state has multiple types of plates. California custom license plates come in a variety of plate designs and colors.
Personalized license plates typically cost $103, with an annual renewal fee is $83. Specialty plates can also take longer to order.
Specialty and Vanity Plates
When you opt for specialty or vanity plates in California, you can choose to support a variety of causes such as the arts, conservation, and state colleges, or order legislative plates that showcase your participation in a legislative body. You can also get California disabled veteran's placards to display.
Temporary Plates and Permits
You might receive a Temporary Operating Permit (TOP) if you have paid your registration fees but your license plates have not yet been issued. You can remove the temporary plates when you receive your permanent plates.
License Plate Rules and Display Requirements in California
In California, vehicles must display both front and rear plates if you are issued two license plates. If you are only issued one, then it should be displayed on the rear of your vehicle. Make sure your California plates are securely fastened, visible, and legible.
Compare Insurance Options Before Registering Your Vehicle
It is always a smart idea to compare insurance options before you register your vehicle.
A custom quote from EverQuote is always free, and it only takes a few minutes. You can compare various insurance options side by side to find the most affordable option for your California driving. Visit EverQuote today to get started and save!
FAQs
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