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California license plate replacement

Missing plates?
Start with clear next steps.

Lost, stolen, or damaged license plates can leave you with questions. Auto Express Tags helps you understand the requirements and start the appropriate replacement request.

Licensed & bonded California DMV registration service

Based in Covina · Serving California
California DMV License #OL84427

Get help replacing your plates

Tell us what happened and which plates are affected. We’ll help you understand what comes next.

  • Have your plate number and VIN ready
  • Tell us whether one or both plates are missing
  • Let us know your plate type

Start Plate Replacement →Call (626) 240-5801

Starting a request does not issue new plates or authorize driving without required plates. Eligibility and next steps must be confirmed.

✓ Licensed & bonded✓ Personal assistance✓ Clear document guidance✓ Covina pickup available

Tell us what happened

Lost or missing plates

Let us know when you noticed the loss and whether you still have a remaining plate.

Stolen plates

Report the theft to law enforcement and keep a copy of the police report for your replacement request.

Damaged or unreadable plates

Keep the affected plates and tell us their condition. We’ll explain the surrender requirements for your request.

Personalized or specialty plates, both plates stolen, or a stolen motorcycle plate? Contact our team first to confirm the correct process.

From missing plates to a clear plan

1

Share your vehicle details

Start with your VIN, plate information, registered owner details, and the reason for replacement.

2

Review the requirements

Our team will help identify the paperwork, applicable fees, and any in-person steps needed.

3

Complete the next steps

Follow the instructions for your request and arrange an available pickup or delivery option after processing.

What to have ready

  • License plate number, VIN, and registered owner information
  • Registration card or other available ownership documents
  • Identification and your current address
  • A police report if the plates were stolen
  • Any remaining or damaged plates for surrender as instructed

Your plate type determines the application needed. Tell us about any address change or recent replacement before proceeding.

View California DMV plate replacement guidance ↗

Fees & delivery choices

Costs depend on the plate type and request. Applicable DMV fees, our service charge, any applicable $7 BPA fee, and delivery are separate items.

Request a quote for your vehicle.

Local pickupFREE
Standard shipping$6
Overnight shipping$35

Delivery options apply to eligible items sent by our office after processing. Overnight shipping does not guarantee same-day plate issuance.

Need something other than plates?

Missing registration card

If you only need replacement registration paperwork, use our registration-card service.

Replace your registration card →

Registration due or expired

Let us know before proceeding. Renewal may need to be handled with your replacement request.

View renewal help →

Missing sticker only

Tell us which sticker is missing so we can direct you to the appropriate request.

Ask about sticker replacement →

License plate replacement FAQs

Can I start a replacement request online?

Yes. Start your request through our application. Our team will review the situation; some plate types or circumstances may require a different process or an in-person step.

Do I need to turn in my remaining plate?

DMV requires surrender of remaining plates for replacement. Keep any plates you still have and follow the instructions for your request.

Can I keep the same plate number?

Lost or stolen plates generally require substitute plates with a new configuration. Personalized and specialty plate requests have specific rules; contact us before proceeding.

What if my registration is expired?

Replacement plates cannot be issued for a vehicle that is not currently registered. Ask about completing renewal along with the replacement.

How soon can I get my plates?

Timing depends on plate type, eligibility, complete documents, and processing. We’ll explain the next steps for your request. Shipping time begins after processing.

Are you the California DMV?

No. Auto Express Tags is an independent, licensed and bonded registration service. You can also obtain services directly from the California DMV without our additional service charges.

Let’s get your plate request started.

Start online or speak with our Covina team about your situation.

Start Plate Replacement →Call (626) 240-5801

961 N Azusa Ave, Suite 7, Covina, CA 91722

Auto Express Tags is an independent registration service, not the California DMV. Licensed & bonded · License #OL84427. Services are subject to document review and DMV requirements.