Whether you’re moving out of Nevada, selling your car, or otherwise ending your car’s registration, one important step you’ll need to take is surrendering your Nevada license plates.
While it may seem like a straightforward process, there are a few intricacies to consider. This blog post will guide you through the steps for surrendering your license plates in Nevada, from the required documents to the necessary forms and where you can complete this procedure.
Why Surrender Your Plates?
In Nevada, license plates remain with the owner and not the vehicle. If you sell, trade, or otherwise dispose of a vehicle, you may need to surrender your plates.
Failing to do so may result in penalties or could make you liable for tickets and other charges even if you no longer own the vehicle.
What You’ll Need
1. **The License Plates**: Obviously, you’ll need the actual plates that were on your vehicle.
2. **Identification**: A valid Nevada driver’s license or ID.
3. **Plate Surrender Form**: This is a specific form you’ll fill out indicating you’re surrendering your plates. It is available at the DMV office and sometimes online.
Steps to Surrender License Plates in Nevada
1. **Visit a DMV Office**: Locate the nearest DMV office where you can surrender your plates.
2. **Wait in Line**: Depending on the time and day, you might have to wait. Some locations allow appointments.
3. **Complete the Paperwork**: Fill out the required forms and show your identification.
4. **Submit the Plates**: Hand over your license plates to the DMV official.
5. **Get a Receipt**: Make sure to obtain a receipt showing that you’ve surrendered your plates. This is crucial for record-keeping.
Fees and Refunds
In most cases, there is no fee to surrender your plates, but you may be eligible for a refund for the remaining portion of the registration fee. This usually depends on how much time is left on your registration and specific conditions outlined by the Nevada DMV.
Penalties for Not Surrendering Plates
Failure to surrender your plates may result in penalties, such as fines and the possibility of your driver’s license getting suspended.
Conclusion
Surrendering your Nevada license plates is an important legal requirement that you should take seriously. Whether you do it in person or through other means, it’s a relatively simple process but requires attention to detail. Make sure to keep all relevant documentation, and visit Smog Busters at one of 30 locations across the valley to surrender your plates.