When Should You Surrender Your Georgia License Plate?

Key Takeaways

  • Surrender Your Plate When Necessary: You have to return your Georgia license plate when you sell your car, get rid of it, move to another state, or get a new Georgia plate.
  • How to Return It: You can take your plate to the DMV office or mail it in. Mailing it with tracking is a good idea.
  • Act Promptly and Keep Records: Return your plate soon after you sell or move, cancel your car insurance right away, and keep copies of your paperwork.

 

Selling or Disposing of Vehicle 

In Georgia, you must surrender your license plate when you sell, dispose of a vehicle, or move out of the state. This ensures proper record-keeping and avoids the potential misuse of your vehicle’s plate.

Requirement: You must surrender your Georgia license plate when you sell, trade in, donate, or otherwise dispose of your vehicle.

Why It’s Important: You’re required to surrender it if you are selling or disposing of your vehicle so it can be removed from the Georgia DMV system.

Process:

  • You can surrender your plate in person at a Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR) Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) office. 
  • Alternatively, you can mail the plate to the appropriate MVD address.
  • Remember to cancel your vehicle’s liability insurance immediately after the sale to avoid continuous insurance fees.
  • Keeping a copy of the Bill of Sale for your records is very important.

Documentation:

  • A Bill of Sale is essential to document the transfer of ownership.
  • Keep a record of the plate surrender, whether in person or by mail.

 

Moving to a New State

Requirement: When moving to another state, you must surrender your Georgia license plate once you’ve registered your vehicle in your new state.

Process:

  • Return your plate by visiting a Georgia DOR MVD office.
  • Or mail it to the designated MVD address.
  • Have proof of your new registration ready in case it is requested.

 

6 Things Georgia Residents Should Considerations When Surrendering a License Plate 

  • Record Keeping: Keep copies of any documents related to your vehicle’s sale or disposal and your plate’s surrender.
  • Insurance Cancellation: Cancel liability insurance on your vehicle as soon as you surrender your plate to avoid unnecessary fees.
  • Verification: Regulations can change, so we recommend directly confirming procedures and specific requirements with the Georgia DOR MVD.
  • Mailing: If you’re mailing a plate, use certified mail or another trackable method to ensure delivery with proof of shipment.
  • Timeframe: There is no set timeframe for returning your license plate, but it is best to return it as soon as possible.
  • Potential Penalties: Failing to return your plates may result in issues with your new registration or insurance.

Where to Find Official Information:

Important Notes to Remember:

  • Verify information and fees on the Georgia Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Division website (dor.georgia.gov/motor-vehicles).
  • Contact your Georgia county tag office for any specific questions or concerns.

  

Make Life Easier, Simply Return Your License Plate!

Navigating the process of surrendering your Georgia license plate doesn’t have to be confusing. Remember to act promptly when selling, disposing of a vehicle, moving out of state, or getting a new plate. Keep thorough records and don’t hesitate to reach out to the Georgia Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Division at dor.georgia.gov/motor-vehicles or your local county tag office for specific guidance and the most up-to-date information. You can also find helpful resources on the official Georgia government website.

Helpful Resources

Georgia.gov: Moving to Georgia

Georgia.gov: How to Release a Lien and Security Interest on Title

Georgia.gov: Cancellation and Reinstatement of Registration

 

Please Also Ask

Disclaimer: This information is intended for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with the Georgia Department of Revenue or a qualified professional for specific assistance.

 

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What address do I mail my Georgia license plates to when moving out of state?
If you’re mailing your surrendered Georgia license plate, you will send it to the address listed on the Georgia DOR MVD website. Be sure to confirm the address on the official website or contact the MVD directly.
Do I need to remove my decal/sticker from the Georgia license plate before mailing it?
Yes. The Georgia DOR MVD recommends removing any decals or stickers before returning your license plate. This helps ensure your plate is returned in its original state and prevent potential processing issues.
Can I get a receipt or confirmation that I surrendered my Georgia license plate when mailing it?
Yes, you can. To ensure you have proof of surrendering your plate, mail it in using certified mail and request a return receipt. This ensures you have a record of delivery and confirmation that the Georgia DOR MVD received your plate.
Will I receive a refund for any unused portion of my Georgia vehicle registration when I surrender my license plate?

In some cases, you may be able to receive a refund for the unused portion of your vehicle registration. If you believe you are eligible, contact the Georgia DOR MVD to inquire about their refund policy. Be ready to show documentation, such as proof of your new state registration.

If I surrender my Georgia license plate by mail, how long does it take to complete the process?
Processing times for license plates that were mailed in can vary. After sending in your surrendered plate, allow sufficient time for mailing and processing. Contact the Georgia DOR MVD if you have questions about their processing times and to follow up on the status of your shipment. Keeping your certified mail receipt is very important during this period.
What documentation do I need to include when mailing my Georgia license plates?

When mailing in your surrendered Georgia license plates, include a letter with the following information:

  • Your full name
  • Your Georgia address
  • Your vehicle’s identification number (VIN)
  • Your license plate number
  • A brief explanation of why you are surrendering the plates (e.g., moving out of state)
  • A copy of your new state’s registration
  • Your contact information (phone number and email address)
After surrendering my plates, how do I ensure my information is correctly updated in Georgia's system?
Contact the Georgia DOR MVD directly to confirm your license plate surrender has been fully processed and your records have been updated. Be sure to keep your certified mail receipt or turn-in receipt for documentation.
Do I need to return an expired Georgia license plate?
If your license plate is expired, you may not need to return it to the Georgia DOR MVD. It’s best to confirm with the Georgia DOR MVD directly, as changes in regulations and specific circumstances can affect this.
What happens if you don't turn in your license plate in Georgia?

In the state of Georgia, failing to surrender your license plate may have consequences. This can include:

  • Potential Fines: You could be fined for neglecting to surrender your plate, although the specific amount can vary.
  • Registration Issues: You may be unable to register other vehicles or renew your driver’s license.
  • Legal Complications: In some cases, failing to surrender your plate could lead to legal issues.

It is best to return your plates as soon as possible to avoid any potential issues.

Do I have to turn in my license plate when I cancel insurance in Georgia?
Yes. If your car’s insurance is canceled and you’re not actively using the vehicle, you must surrender your plate to the Georgia DOR MVD. You may face penalties if you fail to do so, as Georgia requires continuous insurance coverage for vehicles on the road. The Georgia DOR MVD may impose daily fees if you fail to comply.
How many days do you have to transfer a license plate in Georgia?
In the state of Georgia, you have 30 days from the purchase date to title and register a newly purchased vehicle. Dealerships often handle titling and registration if you buy a car from them. If you’re transferring your plate from a vehicle you sold to your newly purchased vehicle, you must also do so within the 30-day window.
Does Georgia mail license plates?

 Yes! The Georgia DOR MVD will mail license plates. Standard-issue plates are typically sent as soon as your application is processed. It may take longer to receive your plate for personalized or specialty places, and you may need to submit a specific application. For more information, visit the Georgia DOR MVD website.

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