License Plate FAQs

How do I replace my license plates if I've lost them or someone has stolen them?

Missouri law has recently changed regarding stolen license plates. You can replace stolen license plates and stickers up to two times a year, if you provide a notarized affidavit stating that your plates were stolen (you no longer have to provide a police report). If you provide acceptable documentation, you only have to pay the $3.50 processing fee. Complete the process at your local
contract office.

How do I replace my license plates if they are damaged or mutilated?

If your plates or stickers have been damaged and you'd like duplicates, it costs $8.50 per plate and $8.50 per set of stickers, plus the $3.50 processing fee. Go to your local office with the appropriate materials to complete the transaction.

I'm currently out-of-state, and my license plates are about to expire. How do I renew my plates?

If you will be traveling outside the state when it's time to renew your car registration, contact the Motor Vehicle Bureau at mvbmail@dor.mo.gov or (573) 751-4509 to request a renewal packet that includes the necessary forms to submit your registration by mail.

Am I eligible to renew my plates/stickers online?

If there is a PIN written on your renewal notice, you may be eligible to renew online. However, your county collector's office must have transferred property tax payment to the Missouri DMV, or you must have a property tax receipt that shows the vehicle you are renewing. Note that online registration isn't reliable if there are less than six days before you plates expire. The Missouri DMV has more FAQs on online plate renewal if you need more information.

What do I do if I've lost my renewal notice for my registration and plates?

If you've lost your renewal notice, you can still renew your registration but not through the online system. Go to your local office to complete the process.

How can I make my stickers (tabs) less prone to theft?

You can actually put your license plate sticker in the middle of your license plates to help prevent theft. Most license plates have a middle tab placement. However, if you already have your stickers on the lower right hand corner, leave them there until you get new plates. Otherwise, the stickers will disintegrate and you'll have to pay for duplicates.

I've heard Missouri will have a new license plate design. When will this happen?

As of 2007, Missouri Department of Revenue is working on a new license plate design that will help reduce theft much more. State law declares that these new plates will start appearing in 2009, though current goals are for 2008. Keep your eyes peeled!

How much do license plates cost in Missouri?

For passenger vehicles, registration varies depending on the taxable horsepower of the car, with costs ranging from $18.25 to $51.25. A fee table breaks down applicable costs for both 1-year and 2-year registrations.

How can I get disabled license plates?

Provide proof of disability with a Physician's Statement for Disabled License Plates/Placard. In addition, complete an Application for Missouri Personalized and Special License Plates, available at your local contract office.

What can you tell me about antique license plates?

Instead of antique plates, Missouri refers to them as historic. To qualify, your vehicle must be 25 years old or older and used for exhibition or educational purposes, and owned solely as a collector's item.

Vehicles flashing historic or antique plates may be driven:

• To and from exhibitions or educational events without any mileage restrictions.

• To any repair shop within 100 miles.

• Up to 1,000 miles annually for everyday use. You must maintain a personal use mileage log. This log must be carried in the vehicle when being driven on state roads.

To apply, you must submit:

• A completed Application for Missouri Historic or Personalized Historic License Plates. This application can be ordered via an online form.

• Proof of insurance.

• Your current county or Saint Louis City personal property tax receipt or non-assessment statement.

• A copy of your vehicle's title or registration.

• A one-time registration fee of $25.25.

• A $3.50 processing fee.

You can apply by mail or by visiting the the main office in Jefferson City.

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

No.