Utah license plate transfers allow you to move your existing plate to a newly acquired vehicle. Utah plates stay with the owner, not the vehicle. Transfers are processed through the Utah DMV at dmv.utah.gov or at participating On The Spot inspection and registration stations. Utah is now a rear-plate-only state effective January 1, 2025 (Senate Bill 45).
Plate Transfer Eligibility
Utah allows plate transfers between vehicles owned by the same person. This section explains the eligibility rules and any state-specific restrictions.
Does Utah allow you to transfer your plate to a newly purchased vehicle after Senate Bill 45?
Yes. Utah allows plate transfers between vehicles owned by the same person. When you sell your vehicle, remove plate and transfer it to your new vehicle through the Utah DMV at dmv.utah.gov or an On The Spot inspection station.
Transfer Process
Plate transfers in Utah are processed through the Utah DMV at dmv.utah.gov or an On The Spot inspection station. Follow these steps in order to complete the transfer without errors.
How do you transfer a license plate in Utah using the On The Spot program?
Visit the Utah DMV at dmv.utah.gov or an On The Spot inspection station with all required documents. Remove your plate from the sold vehicle first, then complete the transfer for the new vehicle.
- Remove your plate from the vehicle you are selling. Utah plates stay with the owner.
- Obtain the title for your newly acquired vehicle. For private-party purchases, the seller signs the title with all liens released.
- Visit the Utah DMV at dmv.utah.gov or an On The Spot inspection station with all required documents.
- Pay the transfer fee and applicable taxes and registration fees on the new vehicle.
- Receive updated registration for the new vehicle using your transferred plate.
Required Documents
Gather these documents before visiting the Utah DMV at dmv.utah.gov or an On The Spot inspection station to avoid delays and return trips.
What documents does the Utah DMV require for a plate transfer?
You will need your driver’s license, the new vehicle’s signed title, a bill of sale, your current registration, the physical plate, proof of Utah liability insurance, and payment for fees.
- Valid Utah driver’s license or state ID
- Title for the new vehicle, signed by the seller with all liens released for private purchases
- Bill of sale with purchase price, date, and odometer reading
- Current registration for the plate you are transferring
- The physical license plate
- Proof of current Utah liability insurance for the new vehicle
- Payment for the transfer fee and applicable registration and tax fees
Transfer Fees
The approximately 6.85% combined sales tax (state rate 4.85% plus local taxes) on the new vehicle purchase is typically the largest cost in a plate transfer transaction. The plate transfer fee is separate.
How much does a Utah plate transfer cost, and what combined sales tax rate applies?
Contact the Utah DMV at dmv.utah.gov or an On The Spot inspection station for the current plate transfer fee. The approximately 6.85% combined sales tax (state rate 4.85% plus local taxes) on the new vehicle’s purchase price is typically the dominant cost in the transaction.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Plate transfer fee | Contact the Utah DMV at dmv.utah.gov or an On The Spot inspection station for the current fee |
| Sales or excise tax on new vehicle | approximately 6.85% combined sales tax (state rate 4.85% plus local taxes) |
| Registration fee | Contact the Utah DMV at dmv.utah.gov or an On The Spot inspection station for your specific vehicle’s fee |
Specialty and Personalized Plates
Utah offers specialty and personalized plates that can generally be transferred to a new vehicle, though procedures vary by plate type.
Can I keep my Utah specialty or personalized plate when I trade in or sell my vehicle?
Utah specialty and personalized plates can generally be transferred to a new vehicle. Contact the Utah DMV at dmv.utah.gov or an On The Spot inspection station for the specific procedure and any additional fees applicable to your plate type.
Old Registration
Understanding what happens to the old registration protects you from liability after the sale is complete.
What happens to my Utah registration when I sell my vehicle?
When you sell your vehicle and remove your plate, the old registration is cancelled. The buyer registers the vehicle through the Utah DMV at dmv.utah.gov or an On The Spot inspection station and obtains a new plate. Remove your plate before the buyer takes possession.
Third-Party Transfers
Utah plate transfers are limited to the same registered owner. This section explains what you can and cannot do when selling to another person.
Can I transfer my Utah plate to a family member who is buying my car?
No. Utah plates are not transferable between different owners. Only the same owner can transfer plates between their own vehicles. When selling, remove your plate and allow the buyer to register with new plate.
Plates and Vehicle Sales
Knowing who keeps the plates when a vehicle changes hands prevents confusion and potential legal liability.
Do Utah plates stay with the owner or the vehicle when a car is sold?
Utah plates stay with the owner. Remove your plate when selling your vehicle. The buyer registers through the Utah DMV at dmv.utah.gov or an On The Spot inspection station and obtains new plate. Transfer your plate to your new vehicle through the Utah DMV at dmv.utah.gov or an On The Spot inspection station.
Transfer Deadline
Utah sets a specific registration deadline after purchasing a new vehicle. Missing this deadline results in late fees.
How long do I have to register my new vehicle in Utah after a purchase?
Utah requires new vehicle registration within 60 days of purchase. Complete your plate transfer within this window to avoid late penalties.
Surrendering Plates
If you are not purchasing a replacement vehicle, you have specific options for handling your current plate.
What should I do with my Utah plate if I am not purchasing a replacement vehicle?
If you sell your vehicle and do not purchase a replacement, you may surrender your plate to the Utah DMV at dmv.utah.gov or an On The Spot inspection station or retain it for a future vehicle. Contact the Utah DMV at dmv.utah.gov or an On The Spot inspection station for current guidance on plate surrender procedures.