- What You Need to Prepare
- Two Ways to Process Plate Changes
- Understanding Replacement Costs
- FAQ
Need a new car plate? Whether lost, damaged, or just for a fresh look, learning how to complete a number plate change is simple. This guide explains every step clearly.
What You Need to Prepare
Getting ready for your new vehicle number plate? It helps to have everything in one place before you start. This section lists important papers and key things to check first.
Required Documents
Original vehicle registration card: This is like your car’s main ID. Make sure you have the original, not just a copy. It proves you are the owner of the vehicle.
Valid Emirates ID or passport copy: You will need your personal identification. This can be your Emirates ID if you live locally, or a copy of your passport if you are visiting or are a resident from another country.
Insurance certificate (updated): Your car must be insured. Make sure your insurance papers are current and valid. An updated insurance certificate shows your car is ready for the road.
No-objection letter if leasing: If you do not fully own your car because you are leasing it, you will need a special letter. This 'no-objection letter' comes from the company that owns the car, giving permission for the number plate change.
Eligibility Check
Confirm your vehicle has no outstanding fines: Before you can get new plates, you must pay any traffic tickets or fines your car has. Check this first to avoid delays. The local traffic department usually won't let you proceed with any service if there are unpaid fines attached to your vehicle registration.
Check plate availability for custom requests: Dreaming of a special, custom number plate? If you want certain letters or numbers, you need to check if they are free first. Some unique designs or character combinations might be very popular and already taken.
Two Ways to Process Plate Changes
The good news is, you have choices! You can pick the method that works best for you to complete your license plate transfer.
Online Application
This is a quick and easy way to handle your number plate change from home or office. It is often part of the vehicle registration services online.
Visit the official transport portal: Go to the official website of the local traffic department. This is often called their 'e-services portal' or 'online booking' system.
Upload scanned documents: You will need digital copies of all your papers. Scan your original vehicle registration card, ID, and insurance certificate. Upload them securely to the website.
Select "Plate Replacement" service: Look for the specific service for changing or replacing your number plate. It might be under 'vehicle services' or 'license plate transfer'.
Pay applicable fees: You will pay for the service using a credit or debit card through the secure online system. The 'replacement fees' will be shown clearly before you confirm.
Schedule delivery or center pickup: After paying, you can often pick how you get your new plates. You might be able to have them delivered to your home or office, or choose to pick them up from a designated authorized service center or local traffic department service center.
In-Person Service
Sometimes it is best to visit in person. This method gives you direct help from staff at a local traffic department service center.
Book appointment at authorized center: You might need to book an appointment online or by phone at an authorized service center or one of the local traffic department service centers. This helps you avoid long waits.
Submit physical documents: Bring all your original documents with you. A staff member will check them carefully. This includes your vehicle registration card, ID, and updated insurance.
Complete inspection (if required): For some vehicles, like commercial vans or older cars, an inspection might be needed. This is to ensure your vehicle is safe and meets all rules. Most private cars, however, typically skip this step for a license plate transfer.
Receive temporary permit: Once your application is approved, you might get a temporary paper permit. This allows you to drive your car while you wait for your new plates to be made.
Collect new plates in 3-5 working days: Your shiny new number plates will be ready soon. The local traffic department usually prepares them within a few business days. They will let you know when and where to pick them up from the service center.
Understanding Replacement Costs
When you are ready for your new vehicle number plates, remember that the cost can change. What you pay hinges on a few things. Here is what can affect the replacement fees:
Plate material (standard/premium): You might have a choice between standard plates or thicker, higher-quality ones. Premium plates often cost more for their better look and feel.
Character customization: If you choose a special, custom number plate with specific letters or numbers, these can cost extra. The more unique or sought-after the combination, the higher the price might be.
Emergency replacement surcharges: Need your plates very quickly? Some local traffic departments offer 'express' or 'emergency' services for a faster turnaround. These usually come with an extra fee for quicker processing times.
Tip: It is always smart to ask for a formal price list or official quotation before confirming any transactions. This way, you know exactly how much you need to pay for your license plate transfer service. Prices are usually given in AED or SAR (United Arab Emirates Dirham / Saudi Riyal).
FAQ
Q:Can I keep my old plate number?
A:Yes, you can often keep your exact old number if you are just replacing a damaged or lost plate. However, if your number plate has special letters, numbers, or a unique design, you might need extra approval from the local traffic department. This is part of the license plate transfer process.
Q:Is vehicle inspection mandatory?
A:Generally, only commercial vehicles like trucks or taxis need a mandatory inspection when changing plates. Also, if your current number plates are very old, perhaps older than five years, your private car might need a quick check too. Most private cars, however, can skip this step.
Q:How long is the new plate valid?
A:Your new number plates do not come with a new expiry date. They simply take on the same registration expiry date as your original vehicle registration. This means you will not need to renew them earlier than planned.
Q:Can foreigners process plate changes?
A:Absolutely! If you are not a citizen of the country but live here, you can change your number plates. You will need your valid residency visa and copies of your passport. In some cases, especially if your visa is sponsored, the local traffic department might ask for a letter of approval from your sponsor.
Q:What if I lose my plate temporarily?
A:If one of your number plates goes missing for a short time, you do not have to stop driving. You can apply for a temporary permit. This permit usually lasts for about 30 days and costs approximately AED 50-75 / SAR 50-75. It allows you to use your vehicle safely while you wait for your new, permanent replacement plates to be made.
This article is for reference only; please refer to the latest local laws and regulations.
Read More:
2025 Land Cruiser Mileage in UAE: Tips for Optimal Fuel Efficiency
2025 FJ Cruiser Tank Capacity: Mastering Fuel Efficiency
Toyota Raize 2023 Review:Why This Compact SUV Matters in 2025
