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Plate Surrender in Arkansas

Once your register your car in Arkansas, the license plates become yours. There is no surrendering of plates regardless if you sell the vehicle or move out of state.
Moving to Arkansas
After establishing residency, you have 30 days to register your car with your local revenue office. Depending on the policies of your former state, you may have to return your old plates. If not, dispose of the plates as you wish.
Our Arkansas relocation guide provides help on becoming a new resident.
Moving From AR
You are not required to surrender your license plates to Arkansas's Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) after moving to a new state. For additional help on what to do after leaving the state, visit our Moving Out of Arkansas page.
Selling a Used Car in AR
After selling your vehicle, remove the license plates. They stay with you, not the car. You may be able to transfer them to another vehicle that's in your name. Check with your local revenue office before transferring. Keep in mind that transferring your plates is just a small part of the selling process. Learn more at our Arkansas Title Transfers page.
Buying a Used Car in Arkansas
After buying a used vehicle you'll need to obtain Arkansas license plates by registering with your county's revenue office. Need help on obtaining a title? Visit our vehicle title transfers page.
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