If your vehicle's registration card, license plate(s) or stickers are lost, stolen, or damaged, you may apply for a replacement with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. While the procedure differs slightly depending on what needs to be replaced, you will usually need to complete the Vehicle Registration Application.

APPLYING FOR A REPLACEMENT REGISTRATION CARD

You can apply for a replacement registration card if your card is lost, stolen, or damaged by following these steps:

1. Complete the Vehicle Registration Application.
2. Bring along your driver's license and license plate.
3. If your current registration card has been damaged, attach the damaged card to the application.
4. Pay the duplicate registration fee, currently $2.

An application for a replacement registration card can be made in person or online. When applying online, it might take up to 15 days for you to receive a new one, so save the receipt you get during the transaction as proof that you have applied for a duplicate.

To apply in person, visit your local DMV office.

APPLYING FOR A REPLACEMENT LICENSE PLATES

If one or both of your license plates are lost, stolen, or damaged, you must apply for replacement plate(s) immediately. You can obtain replacement plates in person at the local DMV office by following these steps:

1. Complete the Plate Information section on the Vehicle Registration Application indicating the reason you need duplicate plates.
2. Bring the damaged plate(s) with you, if you still have them.
3. Bring your valid Virginia driver's license and title or registration card.
4. Pay the appropriate duplicate license fee, which is currently $1. This will vary depending on whether you have regular, special interest, or personalized plates.

APPLYING FOR REPLACEMENT LICENSE PLATE STICKER(S)

If your vehicle's sticker is lost, stolen or damaged, you are required to obtain a replacement sticker. You must complete the Vehicle Registration Application and pay the appropriate fee, currently $1. Submit the application at your local DMV office.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Note that you cannot obtain replacement license plates or stickers for vehicles that are not currently registered.
• If you have any queries related to your registration card, license plates, or stickers, contact the Virginia DMV at (866) 368-5463, Monday through Friday between 8 am and 5 pm and Saturday 8 am to 12 noon for assistance. You can also email your queries through the driver and vehicle records.
• See also Vehicle registration and Registration Renewal.
• See also Replacing a Lost Driver's License and Replacing a Lost Title.