If you’re a New York State resident who is moving out of state, selling your vehicle, or simply no longer need your license plates, it’s important to know how to properly return them to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Not only is it required by law, but it can also prevent you from being held responsible for any future violations or accidents involving the plates. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide on how to return your New York State DMV license plates.
Section 1: Why Return Your License Plates?
You may be wondering why it’s necessary to return your license plates to the DMV. The answer is simple: it’s the law. According to New York State law, you must surrender your license plates to the DMV when you move out of state or sell your vehicle. Failure to do so can result in fines and other penalties.
Additionally, returning your license plates can protect you from future liability. If you keep your license plates and they are involved in an accident or used in a crime, you could be held responsible. By returning your license plates to the DMV, you can ensure that they are properly disposed of and that you won’t be held responsible for any future incidents involving them.
Section 2: How to Return Your License Plates
Returning your license plates to the DMV is a simple process. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Remove the license plates from your vehicle. Make sure to remove both the front and back plates.
2. Clean the license plates. While this step isn’t required, it’s a good idea to clean your license plates before returning them. This will make it easier for the DMV to process them.
3. Complete the Plate Surrender Application (Form PD-7). You can download this form from the DMV website or pick up a copy at your local DMV office. The form requires basic information about you and your vehicle, as well as the reason for surrendering your plates.
4. Return the license plates and completed form to the DMV. You can do this in person at your local DMV office or by mail. If you choose to mail your plates, make sure to send them via certified mail so that you have proof of delivery.
5. Receive confirmation of surrender. Once the DMV receives your license plates and Plate Surrender Application, they will send you a confirmation letter. Keep this letter for your records.
Section 3: What to Do If You Can’t Return Your License Plates
In some cases, you may not be able to return your license plates to the DMV in person or by mail. For example, if you are physically unable to remove the plates from your vehicle, you may need to ask someone else to do it for you. Or, if you are out of state and unable to return the plates in person, you may need to mail them.
If you are unable to return your license plates yourself, you can authorize someone else to do it for you. This person will need to bring a completed Authorization for Transfer of Registration and/or Plates (Form MV-82.1) and a photocopy of your driver’s license or non-driver ID card to the DMV office. They will also need to bring the license plates with them.
If you are out of state and unable to return your license plates in person, you can mail them to the DMV. Make sure to include a completed Plate Surrender Application (Form PD-7) and a letter explaining why you are unable to return the plates in person. Send the package via certified mail so that you have proof of delivery.
Section 4: What Happens After You Return Your License Plates
After you return your license plates to the DMV, they will be processed and disposed of. The DMV will update their records to show that you are no longer the owner of the plates. If you surrendered your plates because you sold your vehicle, the DMV will also update their records to show that the vehicle has been sold.
If you surrendered your plates because you moved out of state, the DMV will notify the state where you moved to that you are no longer a New York State resident. This will prevent you from being held responsible for any future violations or accidents involving the plates.
Conclusion
Returning your New York State DMV license plates is a simple process that can protect you from future liability and ensure that you are in compliance with the law. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily return your license plates and receive confirmation of surrender from the DMV. If you have any questions or concerns about returning your license plates, don’t hesitate to contact your local DMV office for assistance.
