License Plate FAQs

My tag (license plate) fell off my car or was stolen. How do I replace it?

You'll need to complete an Application for Replacement Title (use the same form to replace either a tag or a title). Then visit your local tag office and pay a $2 license plate replacement fee.

I had a wreck and my tag was damaged. How do I replace it?

Same process as above. Just complete an Application for Replacement Title. Then visit your local tag office and pay the $2 replacement fee. As long as you don't need a new title, you won't need to pay the $15 title replacement fee.

When do I renew my tag?

The month of renewal should be on your tag. Otherwise, just call your local tag office to find out your registration period. Alabama offers staggered registration, based on the first letter of your last name, from January to November. Your renewal period expires the last day of that particular month.

How do I get a tag for my new car?

First, you'll need to apply for a title to the car. If you buy the car new from a dealership, the dealership will usually complete the paperwork and give you a temporary tag to use while you wait for your permanent tag in the mail.

If you buy from an individual, you'll need to obtain the title from the seller, and then apply for a new title through your local tag office. You'll need to provide the original title signed over to you, the bill of sale, and the appropriate fees. The fees include a $15 title application fee and the sales tax due on the vehicle purchase price, plus any local fees your county may assess. You have a wide choice of license plates to choose from; some are free, while others carry a fee.

I'm getting ready to sell my car. Do I keep the license plate, or does the new owner get it?

For most types of tags, you will keep it and transfer it to your next vehicle. If you have a personalized or specialty tag, some restrictions apply, so check with your local tag office to determine the fate of your tag.

Can I get a personalized tag for my car?

Sure. The Alabama Department of Revenue has a great Web site where you can reserve your personalized tag. You choose the type of tag you want from the drop-down menu, and then type in your choice for up to four messages. The Web site will search the database and let you know whether the tag is available.

There is a $2 fee to reserve the tag until you get to the local tag office with all your paperwork. Depending on the tag you choose, your personalization could be from three to eight letters and numbers long. There is a $50 fee for the personalization on most tags, in addition to your regular tag fees and taxes.

I broke my leg and will be in a wheelchair for six months. How do I get a special tag for my car so I can park in handicap spaces?

You and your doctor will need to complete an Application for Disability Access Parking Privileges and return it to your local tag office. For a temporary injury, you can request one temporary placard, which is portable from vehicle to vehicle. There is no charge for the placard.

I belong to a new civic organization and we'd like to have our own license plates. Is that possible?

Yes, your organization can apply for a Distinctive Plate category. You'll need a minimum order of plates, so smaller organizations probably won't qualify. You'll find all the details and paperwork needed in the New Distinctive Packet provided by the Alabama Department of Revenue.

How do I apply for vintage license plates?

Good question. Complete an Application for Vintage Vehicle License Plates and submit it, along with the appropriate fee, to your local county registration office.

Do I have to surrender my Alabama license plates after I move to another state?

No.