Peeling license plates

We are aware that some older license plates may show delamination (peeling) of their printed coating. 

License plates that are peeling should be exchanged for a new set of license plates free of charge.  License plates showing natural use, fading, chips or crash damage are not eligible for a free exchange.

 

How do I know if my plates are peeling due to delamination or normal use?

Examples of coating delamination (no fee required):

empire blue peeling plate                     

 Empire Gold Peeling Plate

 

Examples of aging or damage (fee required):

Empire Blue Damage Plate         

 Empire Gold Damage Plate

 

How do I exchange my peeling plates due to delamination for a new set?

You may request a new set of plates at a DMV office or by contacting the Custom Plates Unit at 1-518-402-4838 between the hours of 8:00am - 4:00pm, Monday through Friday  and a telephone representative will walk you through the process. You will be asked to submit a photograph of the peeling plate.

 

Can I keep my same plate number?

Yes.  If you want to keep your same plate number you will be charged a fee of $20.  

Call the Custom Plates Unit at 1-518-402-4838 between the hours of 8:00am - 4:00pm, Monday through Friday.

 

How do I exchange plates that are not peeling due to delamination?

If your plate shows damage from use, fading or cracking, and not delamination the DMV will issue you a new registration and replacement plates. 

You will need to pay $25 for the new plates, and a fee of $3.75 to issue a new registration, plus another $20 if you want your new plates to have your old plate number. 

Visit your local DMV office or contact the Custom Plates Unit at 1-518-402-4838 between 8:00am - 4:00pm, Monday through Friday.