License Plates
License plates are available in the standard Home Means Nevada design and more than 30 specialty designs.
Learn how to order a plate, gift a personalized plate or order a souvenir or sample plate.
MAIN NEVADA PLATES
VETERAN & FAMILY PLATES
CHARITABLE & COLLEGIATE PLATES
CLASSIC VEHICLE PLATES
Ordering Options
Order your personalized plate online using our online plate availability tool.
Order in person at a DMV office or contact the DMV as indicated in the plate listing. Make an appointment for your DMV office visit in Carson City, Henderson, Las Vegas or Reno.
Bring the following:
- Completed Application(s)
- Any additional documentation listed on the plate application
- Existing plates, if any
- Current Odometer Reading
- Nevada Evidence of Insurance
- Passing Emissions Test (if required)
Original Registration
See the full list of Registration Requirements or the New Resident Guide and use our online Registration Fee Estimate.
Existing Registration/Plate Swap
A $5 substitute plate fee will apply in addition to the plate fees. No registration renewal or emissions test is required if your registration is more than 35 days from renewal.
If your renewal is due or you choose to renew the registration, you must provide a passing emissions test if required and the last test was completed more than 90 days prior. You will receive credit for the unused portion of your current registration if it is not due for renewal.
Personalized/Custom Orders
If your plate needs to be manufactured, we will register the vehicle, issue a movement permit and mail the plates to you.
License Plate Display
Nevada law requires most vehicles to display front and rear license plates at all times, except motorcycles and trailers, which require only a rear plate. You must display both plates if the vehicle is designed for a front plate or if the manufacturer offers an add-on bracket or frame.
Front plates are optional only if 1) the vehicle was not designed for a front plate and 2) the manufacturer did not provide an add-on bracket or other means of displaying the front plate. (NRS 482.275)
The DMV issues two plates (except motorcycles and trailers). If the second plate is not displayed, it is the owner's responsibility to store the second plate and surrender or return both plates to the department at the appropriate time.
License plates must at all times be securely fastened to the vehicle so as to prevent the plate from swinging and at a height not less than 12 inches from the ground, measuring from the bottom of such plate, in a place and position to be clearly visible. It must be maintained free from foreign materials and in a condition to be clearly legible.
License plate specifications call for plates to be readable from a distance of 100 feet during daylight. At night, plates must be readable from 110 feet when lit by standard headlights. Rear plates must display a decal with the month and year of expiration. (NRS 482.270)
The DMV reissues most plates every eight years to help ensure plates are readable and in good condition. See License Plate Reissue.
Decals
Registration decals which indicate the month and year of expiration are placed on the upper right-hand corner of the rear plate. Your registration expires on the exact date listed on the slip; it is not valid until the end of the month.
Nevada license plates are issued to people and businesses, not to vehicles. You may transfer your existing plates to a new vehicle. Plate transfers between individuals require a witnessed statement which can be completed at the DMV at the time of registration.
Plate Size
Motorcycles and trailers under 1,000 pounds gross weight are issued small plates. Trailers 1,000 pounds and over are issued a full-size plate.
Frames & Covers
Plate frames or covers are not prohibited as long as the above requirements are met and the plate is clearly legible.