Vanity Plate Transfer Guides
Complete jurisdiction-specific guides for transferring vanity plates to buyers. Find detailed procedures, required forms, fees, and contact information for your location.
This guide provides general information about vanity plate transfer processes. Regulations change frequently and vary significantly by location. TagsTrader is NOT providing legal advice. Before transferring any plate, you MUST verify current requirements with your local DMV or equivalent authority. Failure to follow proper procedures may result in loss of the plate, fines, or legal consequences.
🛡️ We strongly recommend using a professional escrow service (such as Escrow.com) to protect both buyer and seller. Never transfer funds or plates without securing payment through escrow first.
Found 28 jurisdictions
California
Fully TransferableUnited States
California allows transfers of vanity plates between individuals. The process is relatively straightforward and can be completed through the DMV.
Texas
Limited TransferUnited States
Texas allows vanity plate transfers but with specific restrictions. Transfers are generally limited to family members or require specific procedures.
New York
Limited TransferUnited States
New York allows vanity plate transfers but requires direct contact with the DMV Custom Plates Unit for approval and processing.
Florida
Fully TransferableUnited States
Florida allows straightforward vanity plate transfers between individuals. The process is relatively simple and can often be completed online or by mail.
Washington
Fully TransferableUnited States
Washington State allows vanity plate transfers between individuals. The process is straightforward through the Department of Licensing.
Arizona
Fully TransferableUnited States
Arizona allows vanity plate transfers between individuals through the Arizona Department of Transportation.
Colorado
Fully TransferableUnited States
Colorado allows vanity plate transfers through the Colorado Department of Revenue.
Pennsylvania
Limited TransferUnited States
Pennsylvania allows vanity plate transfers with certain restrictions. Transfers may be limited to family members or require special approval.
Massachusetts
Fully TransferableUnited States
Massachusetts allows vanity plate transfers between individuals through the Registry of Motor Vehicles.
Illinois
Fully TransferableUnited States
Illinois allows vanity plate transfers through the Illinois Secretary of State.
Georgia
Fully TransferableUnited States
Georgia allows vanity plate transfers through the Georgia Department of Driver Services.
Michigan
Fully TransferableUnited States
Michigan allows vanity plate transfers through the Michigan Secretary of State.
North Carolina
Fully TransferableUnited States
North Carolina allows vanity plate transfers through the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles.
Ohio
Fully TransferableUnited States
Ohio allows vanity plate transfers through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
Nevada
Fully TransferableUnited States
Nevada allows vanity plate transfers through the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles.
Utah
Fully TransferableUnited States
Utah allows vanity plate transfers through the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles.
Ontario
Limited TransferCanada
Ontario allows personalized plate transfers with restrictions. Transfers are typically limited to family members or specific circumstances.
Alberta
Limited TransferCanada
Alberta allows personalized plate transfers with restrictions. Transfers may be limited to family members or require special approval.
British Columbia
Limited TransferCanada
British Columbia allows personalized plate transfers with specific restrictions and requirements.
United Kingdom
Fully TransferableInternational
UK personalized registration numbers are fully transferable assets. The process is well-established and straightforward through DVLA.
Victoria
Fully TransferableAustralia
Victoria allows personalized number plate transfers through VicRoads. The process is straightforward and well-established.
Queensland
Fully TransferableAustralia
Queensland allows personalized plate transfers through the Department of Transport and Main Roads.
New Zealand
Fully TransferableInternational
New Zealand allows personalized plate transfers through the New Zealand Transport Agency.
United Arab Emirates
Fully TransferableInternational
UAE allows personalized plate transfers. The process varies by emirate but is generally straightforward through local traffic authorities.
Germany
Fully TransferableInternational
Germany allows personalized plate transfers through local registration authorities (KFZ-Zulassungsstelle).
France
Fully TransferableInternational
France allows personalized plate transfers through ANTS (Agence Nationale des Titres Sécurisés).
Singapore
Fully TransferableInternational
Singapore allows personalized plate transfers through the Land Transport Authority.
Hong Kong
Fully TransferableInternational
Hong Kong allows personalized plate transfers through the Transport Department.
To protect both buyer and seller during a vanity plate transfer, we strongly recommend using a professional escrow service. Here's why escrow is essential:
- Protects Payment: Funds are held securely until all conditions are met
- Verifies Transfer: Confirms plate transfer at DMV before releasing funds
- Neutral Third Party: Unbiased intermediary ensures fair transaction
- Legal Documentation: Creates binding agreement between parties
- Dispute Resolution: Professional mediation if issues arise
Recommended Escrow Services:
- • Escrow.com - Established online escrow service
- • Local Escrow Companies - Search for licensed escrow companies in your state
- • Title Companies - Many offer escrow services for vehicle transactions
⚠️ Never accept personal checks, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency without escrow protection. This is the most common way plate transfer fraud occurs.
Can I transfer my plate to anyone?
It depends on your jurisdiction. Some states allow free transfers between any individuals, while others restrict transfers to family members. Check your specific jurisdiction's guide above to see if transfers between people are allowed.
How long does a transfer take?
Processing times vary by jurisdiction, typically ranging from 1-8 weeks. Check your jurisdiction's guide for specific timelines. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee.
What if my plate is currently on a vehicle?
Most jurisdictions require you to remove the plate from your vehicle before transferring it. The new owner will then apply to assign it to their vehicle. Some states allow direct transfers while the plate remains registered.
Are there any plates that cannot be transferred?
Yes. Specialty plates (government, disabled, military, etc.) typically cannot be transferred. Standard vanity plates are usually transferable. Check with your DMV to confirm your specific plate's transferability.
What if the transfer is rejected?
If a transfer is rejected, the DMV will provide a reason. Common reasons include: plate already assigned to another vehicle, offensive content, or ineligible recipient. Contact your DMV to understand the specific reason and explore options.