How to Get License Plates in Vermont
A DMV license plate in Vermont provides proof that the vehicle has passed tests that prove it is fit to be driven on the streets and highways of Vermont. Having valid VT car registration plates is an important civic duty that promotes safety and clean air for all residents of the state. A clearly visible license plate also provides an easy way for law enforcement officers to identify a vehicle and its driver when needed.
Vermont law requires drivers to get license plate tags promptly on newly purchased vehicles or cars brought into VT from another state. Find the resources you need to learn how to get your tags, tag renewals, replacements and tag transfers in Vermont by reading the details outlined below.
Types of License Plates in Vermont
New registration plates in Vermont come in multiple designs and styles to suit different tastes and needs. Although most VT drivers choose the standard DMV license plate, each of the following license plates has a purpose for representing different people groups in VT:
- Standard-issue car registration plates appear on most Vermont vehicles. These dark green tags feature white lettering and the words “Green Mountain State” below the numbers.
- Specialty plates feature designs that promote recognition of specific groups of people, including service, safety and charitable organizations.
- Personalized or vanity car registration tags in Vermont feature custom names or sayings based on an arrangement of just a few letters and numbers.
- Disabled License Plates and placards are issued by the VT DMV to disabled individuals after they obtain a physician’s signature on the DMV form indicating their need for easier access parking.
- Antique and Exhibition DMV license plates are available to owners of vehicles dated 1968 and earlier who want an older plate to coordinate with the vehicle’s appearance. Vehicles bearing antique or exhibition plates should only be used in functions of public interest.
- Low number plates feature numbers only between 1001 and 9999.
How to Apply for a License Plate in Vermont
The process of how to get a license in plate in Vermont involves completing a Vermont Registration, Tax and Title Application and submitting it in person to the VT DMV with your title, manufacturer’s certificate of origin (MCO), bill of sale and odometer disclosure statement. If you need car registration plates on a vehicle previously titled in another state, you must obtain a vehicle identification number (VIN) inspection prior to registration.
Furthermore, you may apply for VT license plates through the mail. Simply gather the documents mentioned above and send them to the proper DMV mailing address.
How to Renew License Plate Tags in Vermont
One of the most convenient ways to renew license plate tags is to log into Vermont’s official DMV online portal. After completing the renewal steps, your new registration plates and papers should arrive by mail within four to six business days.
Renewing license plate tags in person at your local VT DMV office will permit you to leave with your new registration plates in hand. If you cannot renew online or visit the DMV in person, you may renew your tags by mail. You may mail your information to the address shared in the section below.
Oftentimes the process of renewing your tags happens at the same time as the process of renewing your registration.
How to Replace License Plates in Vermont
Replacing license plate tags in VT is easily accomplished by completing the Replacement Plate Application, and submitting it to the VT DMV. If your car tag was lost or stolen, visit your local DMV office with a copy of your current registration or license plate number and a check, money order or credit card to pay the applicable fee.
Furthermore, you may replace license plate tags by mail. To do so, you must complete the application for a Duplicate or Corrected Registration and send it with your fee payment to the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles.
How to Transfer License Plates in Vermont
To transfer VT car registration plates from an old car to a new one, complete the Vermont Motor Vehicle Registration, Tax and Title Application and be sure to enter the DMV license plate number of the vehicle you are transferring. You will also need to complete Section 7 of the Vermont Registration Application or send in your current renewal card with the “transfer” section completed. As with most license plate transactions, you may do this by mail or in person at the DMV.
Vermont License Plate Fees
The standard fee for license plates in Vermont is $76. However, specialized car tags may incur additional costs.
License Plate Lookups in Vermont
Vermont offers several options to get license plate lookups. You may request your own driving record by submitting Form VG-116, Record Request Form along with the proper fee.
Only insurance companies or bulk purchasers may access driving record information, but they must submit a signed agreement to the VT driver privacy protection policy. Fees to get license plate lookups vary depending upon the amount of information being requested.
License Plate Forms
Note: DMV forms change regularly. The forms provided above are current based on the date of writing.
Sources
- License Plates from Vermont.gov