Navigating the DMV: The Best Way to Get a License Plate

Have you ever encountered the DMV's labyrinthine process to obtain a license plate? It can be quite a journey, especially with the intricacies of car purchases, taxes, and personalized plates. Let's delve into the steps and possible alternatives to ensure you have a clear path to your license plate.

Steps to Obtain a License Plate

Purchasing a Vehicle

Buying a vehicle typically requires a series of steps, including getting insurance, registering the vehicle, and securing a license plate. Here's a quick guide:

Get Pre-Renewal Notices: Before your current plates expire, check your mailbox for pre-renewal notices. Although these might not be around in times of pandemic, they provide valuable information. Register Your Vehicle: Ensure the vehicle is legally registered. This involves providing proof of insurance, odometer verification, and other required documents. Get the License Plate: For new or used car purchases, the process varies: New Cars: If you bought a new car, the plates may come with the vehicle. However, you still need to register the vehicle with the DMV. Used Cars: If you purchased a used car, the plates should come with the vehicle. However, you need to ensure the vehicle is properly registered.

If you want personalized plates, you'll need to bring the old plates, fill out some paperwork, and pay a fee. Personalized plates can take a few weeks to be issued.

Temporary Plates and Driver-Specific Services

For temporary registrations, such as for vehicles like a trailer or a truck you can't register, you might need to get creative:

Car Dealership: Sometimes dealerships can issue temporary plates. If not, they may have information on how to obtain one. Negotiate: If you're in a rush, you can try negotiating with the dealership for a temporary plate as a favor. Call Around: Contact other local dealerships or car rental companies that might be able to provide temporary plates. Join Triple A: If you aren't a member, consider joining AA (The Automobile Club of America) as they may offer DMV services.

For individuals in California, part of the shelter order provided 60-day relief on all DMV deadlines. If your plates expired April 15, they are valid until June 15.

DMV Services During Pandemic

During the pandemic, DMV services were significantly impacted. Here's what you need to know:

Online Services Only: Currently, all US states are offering online DMV services exclusively. This means that you can process many of the necessary steps online. DMV Extensions: Some states, like Missouri, have instituted an automatic 2-month extension for plates or drivers licenses expiring in April or May. Check your state to see if this was enacted. State-Specific Relief: Some states have provided specific relief measures, such as 60-day extensions in California. Check your local DMV website for any updates.

The direct contact and in-person services are either limited or closed. You can check the DMV website, call the DMV help line, or visit the DMV services page on the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Conclusion

While the process of getting a license plate can be quite involved, staying informed and taking advantage of online resources can make it much smoother. If you encounter roadblocks, don't hesitate to reach out to service providers or your local DMV for assistance.