License Plate FAQs

We cover topics such as how to order standard and specialty plates in our License Plates and Placards section.

But there are often other questions people have about license plates. Here are a few common ones:

Is there someplace that I may view all the types of plates that are available?

Yep. The Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has a central page in which it breaks the plates into 10 categories. So if you'd like to see the various speciality plates available, simply click on the link. On each page, you'll see pictures of the plates available in that category, plus specific information about each plate, including the cost.

I just sold my car. What should I do with the plates?

Good question. The plates stay with you, not with the buyer of the car. Remove them promptly after the sale.

You can use the plates on another car you own, or you can simply destroy them. Just don't take them to the DMV. They don't want them!

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

Nope. Wisconsin does not want your old plates. Keep them on your vehicle until you get registered in your new home, then destroy your Wisconsin plates or recycle them through your new state's DMV, if such a program exists.

What happens if I destroy the plates, and I later get a renewal notice?

Just ignore it. As long as the plates are no longer in use, you're fine.

I'd like to let the DMV know that the plates aren't being used. What should I do?

Well, you're not required to do this. But if you'd like to, complete the License Plates Cancellation Application form, and send it to:

• Wisconsin Department of Transportation

• P.O.Box 7911

• Madison, WI 53707-7911

How do I renew my plates?

You have three ways to do this: in person, by mail, or online. See our Registration Renewals section for complete details.

How do I order disability plates and placards?

There isn't a quick answer for this, but we cover the issue in our Drivers with Disabilities section.

How do I replace lost or damaged plates?

We show you how to do both, as well as how to replace stolen plates, in our Replacing a Lost Registration section.

Any insight on antique plates?

To qualify for antique license plates, your vehicle must:

• Be 1945 or older

• Be free of alterations or modifications

• Be driven only for display, parades, maintenance and storage purposes

To apply, submit:

• A photocopy of either the Wisconsin title or registration

• An Antique License Plate Application along with a letter articulating your intentions

• A check or money order for $5

If you just purchased the vehicle or if the title is from out-of-state, here's what to submit:

• A Wisconsin Title & License Plate Application

• Either the assigned Wisconsin title or out-of-state title

• A check or money order for $5 registration fee

• A title fee

• Sales tax, if applicable