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Washington D.C. License Plate Lookup /Replacement License Plate

Washington D.C. Replacement License Plate

What Is a License Plate Replacement in Washington D.C.?

A license plate replacement in Washington, D.C., is obtaining a new license plate when the current one is lost, stolen, damaged, or illegible. The District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles (DC DMV) is responsible for issuing and replacing license plates for vehicles registered in the district.

When Do You Need To Replace Your Washington D.C. License Plate?

You need to replace your Washington, D.C. license plate in the following situations:

  • If your license plate is lost or stolen
  • If your license plate is damaged or has become illegible due to wear and tear
  • If you have changed your vehicle's registration type (e.g., from a standard plate to a personalized plate)
  • If you have changed your vehicle's ownership or registration information

How To Get a Replacement License Plate in Washington D.C.

To get a replacement license plate in Washington, D.C., you can follow these steps:

  1. Visit a DC DMV service center in person. The list of service centers and their addresses is on the DC DMV Locations page.
  2. Present the following original documents:
  • DC vehicle registration card
  • Valid DC credential (e.g., driver's license or ID card)
  • Existing vehicle tags, if the tags are worn or if only one was stolen
  • Metropolitan Police Department police report if the tags were lost or stolen If you do not own the vehicle, you must provide additional documentation:
  • A fully executed vehicle power of attorney form
  • A copy of the vehicle owner's valid DC credential
  • Your valid credential
  1. Pay the applicable replacement fees.
  2. Once your application is processed and payment is made, you will receive your replacement tags at the DC DMV service center.

Where To Replace a License Plate in Washington D.C.?

You can replace your license plate at any of the DC DMV service centers throughout the district. Some of the leading service centers include:

  • Southwest Service Center: 95 M Street, SW, Washington, DC 20024, Phone: (202) 737-4404
  • Benning Ridge Service Center: 4525 Benning Road, SE, Washington, DC 20019, Phone: (202) 737-4404
  • Rhode Island Service Center: 2350 Washington Place, NE, Suite 112N, Washington, DC 20018, Phone: (202) 737-4404

For a complete list of DC DMV service centers and their contact information, visit the DC DMV Locations page.

Can You Replace a Washington, D.C. License Plate Online?

No, you cannot replace your Washington, D.C. license plate online. The DC DMV requires vehicle owners to visit a DC DMV service center in person to obtain replacement tags, regardless of the reason for replacement.

What Do You Need To Replace Your License Plate in Washington D.C.?

To replace your license plate in Washington, D.C., you need to visit a DC DMV service center in person and present the following original documents:

  • DC vehicle registration card
  • Valid DC credential (e.g., driver's license or ID card)
  • Existing vehicle tags, if the tags are worn or if only one was stolen
  • Metropolitan Police Department police report if the tags were lost or stolen
  • If you do not own the vehicle, you must also provide:
  • A fully executed vehicle power of attorney form
  • A copy of the vehicle owner's valid DC credential
  • Your valid credential

In addition to the required documents, you must pay the applicable replacement fees.

Do You Need Insurance To Replace Plates in Washington D.C.?

Yes, you need valid insurance to replace your license plates in Washington, D.C. The District requires all registered vehicles to have continuous insurance coverage.

How Much Is License Plate Replacement in Washington D.C.?

The cost of replacing a license plate in Washington, D.C., varies depending on the type of plate and the reason for replacement. As of 2024, the fees for replacing a license plate in Washington, D.C., are as follows:

  • Standard license plate replacement: $10
  • Personalized license plate replacement: $25
  • Organizational license plate replacement: $25

These fees are subject to change, so it's essential to check the current fees on the DC DMV website or by contacting the DC DMV directly at (202) 737-4404.

How Long Does It Take To Get Replacement License Plates in Washington D.C.?

The time it takes to receive your replacement license plates in Washington, D.C., depends on the method you choose to apply and the current processing times at the DC DMV. Generally, if you apply in person at a DC DMV service center, you may receive your new license plates on the same day, provided your application is complete and all required documents are submitted.

If you apply online or by mail, receiving your replacement license plates may take longer.