How to Report a Lost License Plate in New York State
Whether license plates are lost or stolen, the state of New York requires that reports are filed through the proper channels. While the process is relatively simple, knowing the correct forms and order of proceeding can save a lot of unnecessary stress and time. Here are the basic steps for reporting a license plate lost in New York State.
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Instructions
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Police Report
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1
Go to your local police station and fill out an MV-78B, also known as a "Report of Lost, Stolen or Confiscated Motor Vehicle Items." This is necessary if your plates were lost or stolen and the registration on the vehicle is not expired. Be sure to get a copy of this report to show the Department of Motor Vehicles.
If an MV-78B is unattainable, another acceptable option is an official report on police agency letterhead from the state where the plates were lost or stolen. If a police report cannot be obtained, write a letter explaining what happened to the plates and get it notarized.
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2
Go to your local DMV office and take your police report or notarized letter along. At the DMV, you will fill out a Certification of Lost License, Permit or Plates. This form will include your license plate number and an explanation of the loss. Once the form is completed and turned in, the lost license plates will no longer be valid.
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3
Turn in any plates that were not lost or stolen (this applies to cars with more than one plate). Note that any plates found at a future date should be returned to the DMV.
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Tips & Warnings
Submitting false statements is a form of perjury and punishable by law. It may result in a license or registration being suspended or revoked.
