• License Plate FAQs

     
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    The tag fell off my car. How do I replace it?

    You'll need to complete Form MV-44, Application for Replacement Plate and submit it and a $7.50 fee to:

    • Department of Transportation
    • Bureau of Motor Vehicles
    • Harrisburg, PA 17104-2516

    If the tag was stolen, you'll need to contact local law enforcement and submit a copy of the report with your application for replacement.


    Someone rear-ended my car and damaged my license plate. Can I get a new one?

    Sure. The process is the same to replace, regardless of the reason. Complete Form MV-44, Application for Replacement Plate and submit it and a $7.50 fee to:

    • Department of Transportation
    • Bureau of Motor Vehicles
    • Harrisburg, PA 17104-2516

    I'm 16 and want to buy my own car. Can it be registered and titled in my own name?

    There are no age restrictions to register a car in Pennsylvania, but check with your insurance company about age and insurance requirements. You're required to carry a minimum of liability insurance on your car, and must provide proof of insurance before you can be issued a tag.


    I just moved to Gettysburg from Kansas. How do I get Pennsylvania license plates?

    Welcome! The Unofficial DMV Guide provides all the details of registration and titling for new residents so make that your next stop.


    How do I get personalized license plates for my cars?

    Pennsylvania offers a wide variety of specialty and personalized license plates. For more information, check out The Unofficial DMV Guide's license plate section.


    I'm having knee surgery next week, and will be in a wheelchair for months. Can I get a temporary handicapped parking permit?

    You and your doctor will need to complete Form MV-145A and submit to:

    • Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
    • Department of Transportation
    • Bureau of Motor Vehicles
    • P.O. Box 68268
    • Harrisburg, PA 17106-8268

    A temporary placard, valid for six months, will be mailed to you.


    Does my car require an emissions test before I renew my license plate?

    Pennsylvania requires emissions testing. Get complete information on The Unofficial DMV Guide's Smog & Emissions Check section.


    Does PennDOT offer antique plates?

    Yes. Actually, the agency has three types of plates available specifically for older vehicles: antique, classic, and collectible.


    If I move out of state, do I need to surrender my license plates?

    Yes. Once you've registered your vehicle in your new state, surrender the Pennsylvania plates by mailing them back to PennDOT. You'll need to include a copy of the Returned Registration Plate form.

    • PennDOT
    • Return Tag Unit
    • P.O. Box 68597
    • Harrisburg, PA 17106-8597
     
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