The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office confirmed today that the Department of Motor Vehicles Plate Replacement plan started this month. The DMV will replace all private auto and motorcycle general issue license plates that are 6 years or older upon the registration renewal date.
DMV Plate Replacement Frequently Asked Questions
The plate replacement is statutory. The General Assembly voted in 2019 (HB 211) to begin replacing plates every seven years beginning July 1, 2020. However, that mandate was delayed to Jan. 1, 2021 due to the COVID pandemic. Plates currently seven years or older will be replaced first. The statute is tied to a new requirement that NC license plates use the latest in reflective technology to make them easier to see and to read, especially at night. The reflectivity of license plates deteriorate over time so new plates are easier to read by machines that access tolls and to enter or exit parking areas.
Yes, if you go to a local license plate agency to renew you can pick up the new plate there.
No, it will not cost additional fees to replace your plate every 7 years.
Unfortunately, the plate must be replaced based on the passing of HB 211.
Yes, you can request the same plate text/number on most plates (excluding dealer, transporter plates) at your local License Plate Agency and through the mail; however, you cannot request the same plate text/number via the internet. When the same plate text/number is ordered, it will be made as a flat plate instead of the current embossed style plate.
Note: The flat plate is important to emphasize with law enforcement
Yes, you can keep the same background unless you choose another background, and your plate number will stay the same unless you request a different one, but again, that is only if you renew by mail or at a local License Plate Agency office. When the same plate text/number is ordered, it will be made as a flat plate instead of the current embossed style plate.
No additional fees are associated with transit fees.
Yes, during renewal is the only time a plate will be replaceddue to HB 211.
You can turn the plate in at a local License Plate Agency office, or mail it to DMV Vehicle Registration Section, 3148 Mail Service Center, 1100 New Bern Avenue, Raleigh, N.C. 27699-3148. Please include a brief note about why it is being returned
7 Year Plate Recall Plan HB 211 (12-9-20) V8