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by Armando Martinez
License Plate Transfer Process for Buyers
As a buyer, you have 30 days from the date of purchase to transfer the license plate to your name. To do this, you'll need to take the following steps:
1. Obtain a bill of sale from the seller that includes the vehicle identification number (VIN), purchase price, and date of sale.
2. Visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) service center and bring the bill of sale, proof of insurance, and your driver's license or other government-issued ID.
3. Pay the required transfer fee, which varies based on the type of vehicle and whether the license plate is personalized or specialty.
License Plate Transfer Process for Sellers
As a seller, you are responsible for removing the license plate from the vehicle before handing it over to the buyer. If you're planning to replace the vehicle or purchase a new one, you can transfer the license plate to your new vehicle by following these steps:
1. Bring the old license plate, registration, your vehicle title, a vehicle inspection certificate, proof of insurance and your D.C. driver’s license for the new vehicle to your local DMV service center. You cannot transfer standard plates to a new owner or expired license plates.
2. Pay the required transfer fee of $12.00 and any other applicable fees and taxes, which varies based on the type of vehicle and whether the license plate is personalized or specialty.
Surrender and Cancel D.C. Tags
If you’ve sold your vehicle and do not transfer your tags after selling or trading in your vehicle, youll need to cancel and surrender your tags to the D.C. Department of Motor Vehicles. You can cancel your tags using the online tag cancellation service if you're the primary owner (the first person listed on the registration). For more information, visit the D.C. Department of Motor Vehicles web page.
License Plate Fees & Taxes
In the District of Columbia, license plate fees vary depending on the type of vehicle and the type of license plate. Here are the fees you can expect to pay:
- Standard license plate and registration fee: $72
- Personalized license plate: $100
- Disability license plate: $72
- Specialty plate: $100-$200, depending on the plate type which include Vanity, Military Honor and Disability plates.
- Excise Tax 4.4%
It's important to note that these fees are subject to change, so be sure to check with your local DMV service center for the most up-to-date information.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth license plate transfer process when buying or selling a used car in a private party sale in the District of Columbia. Don't forget to obtain a bill of sale and proof of insurance, and check with your local DMV service center for any additional requirements. For more information, please visit the D.C. Department of Motor Vehicles webpage. Good luck with your transaction!
This article was written by Armando Martinez. Armando Martinez is among the nation’s experts on automotive titling, registration, DMV services and document operations. With nearly two decades of experience across a broad range of financial services functions and some of the largest names in auto, from Wells Fargo to Uber, Armando combines vision and ingenuity with a wealth of information so auto shoppers and sellers can learn from his experience.
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