License Plate FAQs

The license plate fell off my car. What should I do?

First, contact your local law enforcement to report it missing. They'll write a report, and you'll need a copy of that report to take to your local Tax Commissioner's office. You can access Form MV-7, Application for Replacement License Plate online, complete it, then print it out to take with you.

The fee for a replacement tag is $8.

Someone rear-ended my vehicle, and the license plate is damaged. How do I get a new one?

Take the damaged plate to your local Tax Commissioner's office, and complete Form MV-7, Application for Replacement License Plate. The fee is $8.

The county decal is missing from my tag. Can I get a new one?

Sure. Just visit your local Tax Commissioner's office and produce your driver's license and current registration certificate. You'll be issued a new county sticker at no charge.

You can also request one by mail. You'll need to enclose a copy of your current registration certificate, a complete description of the vehicle, and your license plate number. If your address has changed, be sure to include your current address. Mail the request and required documents to your Tax Commissioner's office.

Can I get antique plates for my vehicle?

It depends. To qualify for these tags, your vehicle must be over 25 years old. Or, your vehicle must be designed and manufactured to replicate an antique vehicle.

The registration fee is $20, and there isn't a special tag fee. You may transfer the tags to another antique vehicle in your possession.

If you wish to display the Georgia plate coinciding with the vehicle's model year, complete an affidavit. The vehicle must be from 1970 or earlier. Take the form to a county tag agent office, where a visual inspection on the vehicle must be completed.

Remember to keep the current tags in the vehicle at all times, along with the affidavit.

Can I order a personalized license plate in Georgia?

Yes. DMV.ORG has all the information you'll need on our License Plates & Placards page.

The serial plate on my car is missing. Can I get a replacement?

You'll need to complete a Title/Tag Application and a Request for a Replacement Serial Plate to request a new serial plate. You'll need to furnish the valid Certificate of Origin or the current title to the vehicle, along with the appropriate fees, which vary. You can submit the application and documents in person or by mail.

In person, go to:

• Salvage Unit Window

• Motor Vehicle Division

• 1200 Tradeport Blvd.

• Hapeville, GA 30354

By mail, submit to:

• Attention: Salvage Unit

• Motor Vehicle Division

• P.O. Box 740384

• Atlanta, GA 30374-0384

When you receive the new serial plate, you'll also receive Form T-22, which has been partially completed. When you have attached the new plate to your vehicle, you'll need to visit your local Tax Commissioner's office so that a designated agent or law enforcement officer can inspect the vehicle and serial number. They'll complete the remainder portions of the T-22 and you'll need to return it back to the Salvage Unit to complete the process. A new title will be issued at this point.

If you need more information, call (404) 362-6500.

My dealer tag was stolen. How do I replace it?

First, report the theft to your local law enforcement, and get a copy of their report. Then complete Form MV-6, Motor Vehicle Dealer, Manufacturer, Transporter & Distributor License Plate Application. You can apply for a replacement in person or by mail.

In person, go to:

• Special Tags Window

• Motor Vehicle Division

• 1200 Tradeport Blvd.

• Hapeville, GA

When applying in person, you'll be required to show your Georgia driver's license or photo ID.

By mail, submit to:

• Attention Special Tags Unit

• Motor Vehicle Division

• P.O. Box 740381

• Atlanta, GA 30374-0381

Only authorized agents for your company can apply for and pick up your replacement tags. The replacement fee is $12.

Do I need insurance to get a license plate for my car?

Yes, Georgia law requires a minimum of liability insurance. When you make application for a vehicle tag, you'll be required to show proof of insurance.

Can I get a tag without an emissions sticker?

Some counties in Georgia require emissions testing; others do not at this point. If your county requires emissions, you must provide a clearance letter to your local Tax Commissioner's office when applying for a tag or renewing your current tag.

Georgia's Clean Air Force provides a complete listing of counties that require emissions testing, and detailed information about the process. Be sure to read DMV.ORG's Smog & Emission Checks page for great information about emissions testing.

Do I have to return my Georgia plates after relocating to a new state?

No.