Sellers

Do I Need to Remove My Plate from My Car Before Listing?

No, you don’t need to remove your plate to list it on Marketplates.

Pit Crew
Marketplates Industry Experts
• 15 Aug 2025 • 4 min read • 1.2k views
Number plate on a vehicle — listing without removal
List while it’s still on your car. Remove only when it’s time to transfer.

You can leave your plate on your vehicle while it's live on the site. In fact, many sellers do.

The key thing is that the plate must be legally yours or you have the authority to sell on behalf of the owner(s), and available to transfer when the time comes.

So, When Do I Remove It?

  • Once a sale is confirmed
  • When you're ready to complete the transfer
  • After following your state’s process for release, hold, or reissue

Each state has different rules, but Marketplates state-by-state transfer guides will walk you through it.

That’s fine. Just keep in mind:

  • Your buyer will expect the plate to be available within a reasonable timeframe
  • Some buyers may ask whether it’s already on hold or off the car
  • You should be ready to start the transfer process shortly after accepting an offer

Want to Be Extra Prepared?

  • Remove the plate and place it on hold with your state authority
  • List that in your plate description to build buyer confidence

It’s not required, but it can speed things up post-sale.

Need help deciding?

Our Pit Crew can advise on your state’s rules and the best timing to remove a plate. Reach out any time.

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