In Person

• 1). Go to your local California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). If you do not have time to wait, make an appointment ahead of time.
  
  
• 2). Provide your California driver's license to prove your identity.
  
  
• 3). Bring proof of ownership of your vehicle, such as the title or registration, as well as a copy of the police report. These items are only required if your current address is not the same as it is on the record with the DMV.
  
  
• 4). Provide a copy of a vehicle verification completed by the California highway patrol if you are replacing your license plates for the second time in less than 90 days. A vehicle verification involves verifying that the vehicle identification number on your vehicle is accurate, as well as documenting the mileage and type of VIN plate. The vehicle verification is available on form REG 343, page 2.
  
  
• 5). Return your remaining license plate if only one was stolen.
  
  
• 6). Fill out the appropriate application for replacement plates. Regular, state-issued plates require form REG 156. Specialty plates require either form REG 17 or REG 17A, depending on the type of specialty plates. REG 17 is for special interest plates, such as environmental, kids and veterans. REG 17A is required for other specialty plates, such as historical vehicles, purple heart recipient and amateur radio. If the plates are for special equipment, such as farming, logging or cemetery equipment, fill out form REG 88. Motorized bicycles require form REG 230.
  
  
• 7). Pay the appropriate fee required for your type of license plate as listed on the California DMV website (dmv.ca.gov). Current fees can also be obtained by calling 1-800-777-0133.
  
  

By Mail

• 1). Fill out the appropriate form for the type of license plate you are replacing. These forms are available on the DMV website (dmv.ca.gov) or at your local DMV. If you have regular plates, fill out form REG 156. Specialty plates require form REG 17 or 17A; special equipment requires REG 88; motorized bicycles require REG 230.
  
  
• 2). Write a check for the appropriate replacement amount as listed on the California DMV website. Requests by mail must be paid by check.
  
  
• 3). Mail the application, your check and any remaining license plates to the DMV at the address listed on the form.