License Plate FAQs

Can't pinpoint the when and how, but I noticed my license plates are missing. What should I do?

You need to visit a vehicle licensing office and bring:

• Photo identification.

• Either a notarized Affidavit of Loss or a notarized letter addressed to the Department of Licensing (DOL), stating your lost plate dilemma.

• Cash or check to pay a $24 two-plate fee.

• A completed License Plate Replacement Application, if your plates were special or personalized.

Do I really have to replace my license plates every seven years?

The reflective coating on the plates begins to fade after five years. Replacing the plates aids police enforcement in reading them at night and in foul weather.

While off-road driving I bent my front plate like a Chinese fortune cookie. Do I need to replace it?

Indeed you must. The process is very similar to replacing a lost license. To do so, visit a vehicle licensing office and bring:

• Photo identification.

• Proof of residence.

• Cash or check to pay a $24 two-plate fee.

• Either a notarized Affidavit of Loss or a notarized letter addressed to the Department of Licensing (DOL), stating your lost plate dilemma.

• A completed License Plate Replacement Application, if your plates were special or personalized.

Are there special qualifications needed to submit a special license plate design?

The Division of Licensing (DOL) is open to any new license design submission provided you are a government agency, a community college, a non-profit organization, or an organization that meets the approval of the Special License Plate Review Board.

How do I legally transfer license plates to another vehicle?

You can do this in person at any vehicle licensing office, or mail the following to the DOL:

• A letter explaining your intent. Be sure to include your license plate number and your current mailing address on the letter.

• A copy of the registration for the vehicle you want the plates transferred to.

• A check covering all applicable fees. You can get the exact amount by calling a vehicle licensing office.

Mail to:

• Department of Licensing

• Vehicle Licensing

• Box 9909

• Olympia, Washington 98507-9909

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

Nope. Recycle them as you see fit. The plates are associated with your vehicle, so once you cancel your Washington registration, the plates are canceled as well.

Is the DOL really processing digital plates?

Yes. Digital plates have many advantages, including faster processing and a more cost-effective way of producing special design plates.

Does the DOL offer antique plates?

Yes, it actually has a few plates available specifically for older vehicles. Visit our License Plates & Placards page for information about the plates, including how to apply for them.