1. Prepare the required documents:
- Vehicle title or registration card for both the old and new vehicles
- Proof of insurance for both vehicles
- Driver's license
- Completed Application for Transfer of License Plates (Form VSD 210)
- Plate Surrender Notice (Form VSD 104) or the license plates from the old vehicle
2. Visit your local Illinois Secretary of State (SOS) facility. You can use the SOS website's "Find a Facility" tool to locate the closest facility. Make sure to bring all the required documents with you.
3. Pay the transfer fee. The transfer fee is currently $15, and you can pay by cash, check, money order, or credit/debit card.
4. Transfer the plates. The SOS will inspect the vehicles and transfer the plates from the old vehicle to the new vehicle. You may need to provide additional proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale or lease agreement.
5. Update your insurance. You'll need to contact your insurance company and provide them with the new vehicle's information, including the license plate number, as soon as possible after the transfer.
6. Dispose of the old plates. You can either return the old license plates to the SOS facility or dispose of them properly by recycling them or turning them in to a licensed scrap metal dealer.
Please note that the exact process and requirements may vary, so it's always a good idea to double-check with your local SOS office before starting the transfer.
