Stolen registration stickers are common, and driving around with a missing sticker is an easy ticket. We can replace plates and stickers here so it is handled the same day instead of sitting in a DMV queue.
One thing worth knowing before you come in: when plates are lost or stolen, the DMV issues substitute plates with a new number rather than reprinting your old one. That is deliberate — it stops the missing plates being used on another car. If you have a toll transponder, a parking or gate permit, or anything else registered to your plate number, plan on updating it. Personalized and special interest plates are handled differently, so ask us and we will check your record first.
What to bring
- Your registration card, or the VIN and plate number
- Your driver license or ID
- A police report, if the plates were stolen
- Any remaining plate — the surviving one is usually surrendered
- A completed REG 156 (we have copies at the counter)
DMV forms
We keep blank copies at the counter — you do not have to print anything.
Not sure you have everything? Text us at 805-710-7219 and we will confirm before you drive over.
Replacement Plates & Stickers — common questions
My registration sticker was stolen. What do I do?
Come in with your registration card or plate number and ID. We complete a REG 156 and issue a replacement sticker on the spot.
Can I keep my same plate number?
Usually no. When plates are reported lost or stolen, the DMV issues substitute plates with a new number — that is deliberate, so the missing plates cannot be used on another vehicle. Personalized and special interest plates work differently; bring your paperwork in and we will check your record. If a plate is only damaged or unreadable rather than missing, that is a different transaction and the number can often be kept.
Do I need a police report for stolen plates?
Yes — bring the police report with you if the plates were stolen. If only the sticker was taken, a report is not needed.