If your license plates are stolen, report the theft immediately to your local law enforcement and your state's motor vehicle department to prevent fraudulent use and request replacements.
First, file a police report with your local law enforcement agency. Provide details about the theft, including when and where you noticed the plates missing. This creates an official record of the incident. Next, contact your state's motor vehicle department to report the stolen plates. Most states allow you to do this online or by phone.
Thieves often steal license plates to commit crimes while avoiding detection. They may attach the stolen plates to another vehicle to evade tolls, parking fees, or traffic cameras. In some cases, stolen plates are sold on the black market. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, license plate theft is a growing problem, with thousands of reports annually.
| Type | Description | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary Plates | New vehicles often receive temporary plates that are easier to steal. | Used to avoid detection during test drives or joyriding. |
| Commercial Plates | Plates issued to businesses, which may have fewer security features. | Used to avoid tolls or fees on commercial vehicles. |
| Specialty Plates | Custom or vanity plates that are highly sought after. | Sold on the black market for profit. |
Once you've reported the theft, request replacement plates from your state's motor vehicle department. You'll typically need to provide your vehicle's title or registration, proof of insurance, and the police report. Some states charge a fee for replacement plates, while others waive it if you provide a police report. For example, in California, you can order replacement plates online through the DMV website.
To deter thieves, consider using anti-theft screws or bolts to secure your license plates. These specialized fasteners require unique tools to remove, making them difficult for thieves to steal quickly., park in well-lit areas and use surveillance cameras if available. I once had a friend who installed a small, inexpensive camera facing the rear of their car, which deterred a potential theft attempt.