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How to Return Your License Plates Before Scrapping a Car

License plate handling is usually rolled into the overall scrapping process, but there are cases where you need to take care of it yourself. Here is what to know.

  1. Understand when plate return is needed

    In most cases today, the scrapyard collects your plates at the same time it takes possession of the vehicle and handles the return to the authorities on your behalf.

  2. Check if you need to return them yourself

    Commercial vehicles or certain local regulations may require the owner to personally return the plates, so it is worth confirming this in advance.

  3. Find out where to return them

    If a direct return is required, visit your local vehicle registration office or an authorized vehicle-service counter to hand over the plates.

  4. Know the consequences of not returning plates

    Failing to return your plates can delay deregistration or create a risk of the plates being misused, so it is important to confirm this step has been properly completed.

  5. Keep your return receipt

    Hold onto the confirmation document issued after returning your plates, since it can serve as useful proof for deregistration and insurance cancellation.

Plate return connects directly to deregistration

A delay in handling your license plates can also delay the vehicle's deregistration. It is worth reviewing the full deregistration process together with this step so you understand how the two are connected.

Ask about this when choosing a scrapyard

Checking whether a scrapyard handles plate collection and return as part of its service can save you an extra trip, so it is worth asking about this specifically when comparing providers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I just leave the plates on the car and let the scrapyard handle everything?

In most cases the scrapyard collects and returns the plates on your behalf, but it is safest to confirm in advance whether your specific vehicle type requires you to return them yourself.

What if I lost my license plates?

Report the loss to your local vehicle registration office and continue with the scrapping process as normal β€” deregistration can still proceed even without the physical plates.