Requirements vary by state. Some states require you to remove plates and return them to the DMV. Others let you keep, transfer, or destroy them. A few states leave plates with the vehicle. Check your state’s specific rules before the junk car buyer picks up your vehicle.
Common state requirements:
- Return to DMV: California, New York, Pennsylvania, many others
- Keep or destroy: Texas, Florida (plates stay with owner)
- Transfer to new vehicle: Allowed in most states
- Stay with vehicle: A few states tie plates to the car
Options for plates you keep:
- Transfer to another vehicle you own
- Surrender to DMV for a potential refund on registration
- Destroy them (bend, cut, or deface so they can’t be reused)
- Keep as a memento (after properly canceling registration)
Why plate handling matters:
- Plates tied to your registration create liability
- Unreturned plates may block registration renewal on other vehicles
- Toll systems use plate numbers to charge accounts
- Misused plates could create legal problems for you
Remove plates before the tow truck arrives unless your state requires them to stay with the car. This prevents any confusion or last-minute scrambling during pickup.
If you’re unsure about your state’s requirements, your local DMV website has specific instructions. Junk Car Medics can also advise what’s needed in your state when you schedule pickup.
