Summary:
While disposing of license plates isn’t something most people do often, it’s important to handle it properly to avoid potential legal or security issues. Whether you’re selling a car, cancelling registration, or have expired plates, knowing the right way to dispose of them can protect you from identity theft or fraudulent activities.
Experts like Amelia Dalgaard from Motorhead Mama and attorney Ben Michael stress that while you *can* technically throw license plates in the trash, they highly discourage it. If the wrong person find the plates, they could use them illegally on stolen vehicles, leading to law enforcement tracing citations or criminal acts back to you.
A safer alternative is recycling. Many state Departments of Motor Vehicles (DMVs) offer recycling options. Since most plates are made from aluminum, this is also environmentally friendly. Additionally, some people choose to repurpose old plates for DIY crafts, like garage decorations or driveway ornaments.
Some states have specific disposal protocols. For example, the New York DMV recommends that if you’re not required to return your plates, you should still take steps to ensure they can’t be misused. This includes marking them with a permanent marker, cutting them into pieces, and disposing of them in the recycling bin in stages. In some cases surrender is required. Such as ending insurance or moving to another state. You should then return them to the appropriate department.
Ultimately, the most secure method is to surrender your plates directly to the DMV or Department of Labor. This will properly invalidate and dispose of them. By taking a few extra steps, you can ensure your personal information and vehicle identity remain safe.
Family Handyman
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