When you sell your car, it’s natural to focus on the big items: transferring the title, getting payment, and handing over the keys. But there’s one crucial step many people overlook – properly disposing of your old license plate.
Why does it matter?
Your license plate is legally tied to you. If you leave it on the vehicle after sale, or toss it in the trash without destroying it, you open yourself up to unexpected – and potentially serious – legal problems.
Imagine this scenario:
You sell your car and forget to remove the license plate. The buyer never transfers the title or registration into their name, or someone else gets hold of that plate and puts it on a different car. Later, that vehicle is involved in an accident, a crime, or racks up unpaid tolls and parking tickets. Because the license plate is still registered to you, law enforcement may come knocking at your door.
In extreme situations, if a crime is committed using that vehicle, you could even find yourself being questioned as a suspect or held financially liable for damages, towing fees, or penalties.
What should you do with your old plates?
The best way to protect yourself is simple:
- Remove the license plate before handing over the car keys.
- Return the plate to your local DMV if required in your state, or
- Destroy the plate (cut it up or bend it thoroughly) so no one else can use it.
In Pennsylvania, for example, you are generally required to return your license plates to PennDOT or transfer them to another vehicle you own. This step ensures the plate number is removed from your name, avoiding any future legal complications.
Protect yourself from unnecessary legal headaches
At Kats, Jamison and Associates, we’ve seen how small oversights can become major legal problems. Taking just five minutes to dispose of your old license plate can save you from months of dealing with fines, court notices, or worse.
If you ever find yourself facing unexpected liability issues after selling a vehicle – or if you’re unsure of your obligations during a sale – our team is here to advise you. We’re committed to protecting your rights and helping you navigate complex legal situations with confidence.
