Process for Requesting Replacement Dealer Plates
All dealers are responsible for the security of the plates issued to the dealership. This includes knowing who has your dealer plates, where those plates are located, and for what the plates are being used.
If a dealer needs to replace lost, stolen or missing dealer plates, a police report must be filed before the replacement request will be approved.
- File a report with the local department (processing time varies)
- After processing, police will issue a police report to the dealership
- Submit this report with the replacement plate request (through CARS)
Reporting and requesting replacement plates can be done at any time during the year. Dealers do not need to wait until license renewal season. In fact, it is recommended that it be done when you become aware a dealer plate is missing.
Why do I need to file a police report? Stolen dealer plates have been illegally placed on vehicles used during criminal activities, and on occasion these activities also result in car accidents or other driving violations. Reporting a plate as stolen tags it in the police system so if that plate is later connected to a crime or accident, the dealer has some protection.
What about damaged plates? If a dealer plate is damaged beyond use, the dealer can take it to the local branch office and request a replacement. The replacement will be processed then mailed to the dealership. There is no police report required in this instance since the dealer is still in possession of the plate being replaced.
Reviewed 12/2025
