Replacing Peeling or Damaged TLC License Plates

Hey NYC drivers! Let's talk about something that seems small but can cause huge headaches: your license plates. We've all seen those blue and white Empire plates slowly peeling apart. While it might look like just a cosmetic issue, for a TLC driver, it's a fast track to a costly ticket and a failed inspection.

Ignoring a peeling, cracked, or faded plate is a risk you can't afford. The good news? Replacing it is straightforward once you know the official process. We've gone straight to the source—the NYS DMV website—to break down exactly what you need to do to stay legal and keep your wheels turning.

Is Your Plate Peeling or Just Damaged?

First, know the difference. The DMV has a specific, free program for peeling (or "delaminating") plates, which is a known issue with certain Empire plate designs. Damage from an accident, rust, or fading is handled differently.

  • Peeling/Delaminating: The clear coating and colors are flaking off the metal base.
  • Damaged: The plate is bent, cracked, shattered, or has faded to the point of being illegible.

Option 1: Replace Peeling Plates & Keep Your Number

If you want to hold onto your current plate number, here's the official process straight from the NYS DMV:

  1. Fill Out Form PP-7: Download and complete the Application for Replacement Plates (PP-7).
  2. Snap a Photo: Take a clear picture of your peeling plates. This is required as proof.
  3. Write a Check: Prepare a $20 check or money order payable to the "Commissioner of Motor Vehicles."
  4. Mail It In: Send everything to the official address:

    NYS DMV Custom Plates Unit
    P.O. Box 2775
    Albany, NY 12220

Pro Tip: Your new plates will arrive in 4-6 weeks, but your registration sticker comes separately. Double-check that your mailing address is correct with the DMV! A simple address error can delay your stickers and cost you driving days.

Option 2: Get a New Plate Number for FREE

Don't care about keeping your old number? The DMV will replace standard peeling plates for free. This is a great option if you want to avoid the $20 fee and don't have sentimental attachment to your current digits.

How to do it:

  • Email: dmv.sm.peelingplates@dmv.ny.gov
  • Subject Line: Your current plate number.
  • Body: Include your full name (as on registration), current address, daytime phone number, and the peeling plate number.
  • Attachment: Don't forget the photo of the plates!

Warning: This decision is final. Once you submit the email, you cannot change your mind or get your old plate number back. The DMV will mail you new plates with a new number and a new registration sticker.

What If Your Plates Are Damaged (Not Peeling)?

For plates that are bent, cracked, or badly faded, the process is different. You'll need to order new plates through the standard DMV channel.

  • Cost: $25 for new plates + a $3.75 replacement registration fee.
  • Keep Your Number? It'll cost an extra $20, bringing the total to $48.75.
  • You will receive: Brand new Excelsior plates and a new registration sticker.
A Special Note for Fleet Owners: IRP Plates

If you have IRP (Apportioned) plates, the process is handled by a different DMV unit. You'll need to fill out Schedule A&C (Form IRP-6), select "Replacement Plates," and include a photo. Submit it via email to irb@dmv.ny.gov or by fax to (518) 486-6579. Questions? Call the International Registration Bureau at (518) 473-5834.

How to (Safely) Throw Out Your Old Plates

Do NOT just toss them in the trash or mail them back. Old plates can be used for fraud, and you could be held responsible for the tickets!

The official DMV instructions are to:

  1. DESTROY THEM: Cut them up with shears, bend them in half, or deface them completely with a permanent marker.
  2. RECYCLE SMARTLY: They are scrap metal. Recycle them at a scrap yard or in your recycling bin—but recycle one plate at a time on different collection days to prevent anyone from taking both.

Stay Legal, Stay on the Road

A damaged plate is one of the easiest violations for an officer to spot. Don't give them a reason to pull you over. Taking a little time to handle this now will save you from fines, inspection headaches, and unnecessary downtime.

Official DMV Custom Plates Unit Contact Info:

Have you had to deal with a peeling plate? How was the process? Share your tips in the comments below!

Categories: TLC Tips, NYC Driver Guide, DMV InformationTags: peeling license plate, nyc tlc, dmv, replace license plate, tlc inspection, avoid tickets

Disclaimer: This blog post provides a summary of official procedures from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NYSDMV). For the most absolute current information, always refer to the primary source at NYSDMV Official Website.

keep updating with TLC news, advice, Tips and Tricks with #AskMegaTLCgenius and Visit megainsurance.nyc  website.. Read Trending TLC Blog .
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