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Here’s what could happen if you don’t return your old license plate

Trooper Steve answers viewer questions

ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero answers viewer questions about the rules of the road every week, helping Orlando-area residents become better drivers by being better educated.

Trooper Steve on Thursday was asked, “I received a new tag with my renewal this year? Do I need to turn in my old tag?”

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“Yes, you are supposed to turn that tag back in,” Trooper Steve said. “Remember the tag belongs to the state.”

Trooper Steve said there are three ways to dispose of a license plate:

  1. In person at a motor vehicle office
  2. Mail it in to a DMV office with a request to cancel the plate
  3. If tag lost or stolen, complete the affidavit on FLHSMV website and mail it in

What if you don’t turn the plate in?

“Financial sanctions can occur once insurance is dropped from the vehicle if the license plate is still actively registered to your car,” Trooper Steve said. “Failing to turn in the plate when your car insurance is canceled could get your license suspended.”

[VIDEO BELOW: Previous Ask Trooper Steve question asks about driving barefoot in Florida]


About the Authors
Daniel Dahm headshot

Daniel started with WKMG-TV in 2000 and became the digital content manager in 2009. When he's not working on ClickOrlando.com, Daniel likes to head to the beach or find a sporting event nearby.

Steve Montiero headshot

Steven Montiero, better known as “Trooper Steve," joined the News 6 morning team as its Traffic Safety Expert in October 2017. A Central Florida native and decorated combat veteran, Montiero comes to the station following an eight-year assignment with the Florida Highway Patrol.

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