Plate Surrender in Utah

Utah doesn’t require you to return your license plates at any time, but there are situations when it might be the best option.

Moving to Utah

When you move to Utah, you’ll register your car and receive two new state license plates.

UT doesn’t require you to surrender your old plates, but your former state might want them back. To find out, To find out, scroll to the top of this page and choose your old state from the drop down menu.

Moving from UT

You don’t have to return your UT license plates when you move to another state, but it’s a safe move; otherwise, if someone else gets his hands on them, you could be held responsible for any accident or crime.

After you move, you can send your plates to: send both plates and a letter explaining why you’re returning them (be sure to include the VIN number) to:

• Utah State Tax Commission

• Motor Vehicle Division

• 210 N. 1950 W.

• Salt Lake City, UT 84130

Be sure to include an explanatory letter and your VIN number.

Selling a Used Car

Because your plates stay with you and not your vehicle, you’ll hang on to them when you sell your used car. You can even transfer them (with the MVD’s help, of course} to another vehicle you own.

Don’t worry about the buyer. He’ll either transfer his own plates to the vehicle or apply for new ones during the title transfer and registration processes.

Buying a Used Car

If you’re the one buying a used car, make sure the seller removes both of his license plates before you drive away.

You can visit the MVD to complete the title transfer and register the car, and either transfer your old, valid plates or apply for new ones.

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