License Plate FAQs

One of my license plates has disappeared. Can I get it replaced?

Yes. You'll need to complete Form VSD-190, available only at your local Secretary of State office. One license plate costs $6, two license plates cost $9, and a registration sticker costs $20.

If you've lost only one plate, the Secretary of State will issue a replacement with the same number. If both plates are missing, The Secretary of State will issue a new license plate number unless you specifically request to keep the old one.

My tag was damaged when I backed into a telephone pole. Can I get it replaced?

Yes. Just complete Form VSD-190 and submit it to your local Secretary of State office. The process to replace a damaged plate is the same as it is to replace one that has been stolen or lost, as described above; the cost is also the same.

How do I get a personalized license plate for my new car?

Illinois has made it easy for you to apply for a personalized plate online through the Pick A Plate! program. You'll need to title and register the car first, and then you can go online and choose your plate. You can also download and print the vanity plate application to complete and submit in person to your local Secretary of State office.

The state has a lengthy list of requirements that will help you choose the best options for personalized plates, so be sure to study the list before submitting your application. You can also visit our License Plates & Placards section for more detailed information.

My license plates seem to be defective―the coating is peeling off. Is this something I should be concerned about?

Illinois has recently noticed that a small batch of license plates is defective. Since your plates appear to be part of this batch, leave them on the vehicle and complete the online form to report the defect. Within three weeks, the Secretary of State will send you a packet in the mail that includes an envelope for you to mail the plates back; this packet will also include a temporary tag for you to use while you wait for your new license plates to arrive in the mail. The replacement plates are free.

I just moved to the state. How long do I have to get an Illinois license plate?

As long as your vehicle is registered properly in another state, new residents have 30 days to register and title their cars in Illinois―including getting a set of Illinois plates.

Someone told me I might be eligible for a discount on my license plates based on my age or disability. Is that true?

Maybe. The Circuit Breaker Program can possibly give you up to a $54 discount on your license plate, refunds on paid property taxes, and discounts on prescription drugs. You can apply online or print forms from the Web site.

To qualify for the Circuit Breaker Program, you must satisfy certain age, disability, residency, and income requirements:

• You must be 65 or turn 65 during the year you apply; or be 16 years of age or older and qualified as disabled; or be a widow or widower 63 or 64 years of age before the death of your spouse.

• You must live in Illinois and continue to live in the state to receive benefits. You must have lived in the state the previous year to qualify for property tax reimbursement.

• Your 2006 income must have been less than $22,793 for yourself only; $30,594 for you and your spouse; $38,393 for you, your spouse, and one other qualified individual living in your home; or you and two qualified individuals. The income levels vary each year, so check back each year before applying to the program.

Does Illinois issue antique plates?

Yes. Antique plates are available through your local Secretary of State office. Consult our License Plates & Placards article to find out which vehicles qualify for the plates, and how to apply for them.

Do I have to surrender my Illinois license plates after relocating to another state?

No.