How to Transfer License Plates in Illinois: Fee, Forms & Timeline

If you're buying a new vehicle or replacing your current one, you may be able to keep your existing plates. Here's exactly how Illinois handles plate transfers.

Quick Reference

Transfer FeeTypically $4–$20 plate transfer fee

Time LimitTypically 30–60 days from vehicle acquisition

Class Match Required?Same vehicle class typically required

Where to FileState DMV office or authorized agent

Forms You Need

State registration application form
Title transfer documents
Insurance verification (most states)

Vehicle Class Restrictions

Same vehicle class typically required

Most states require plate class to match vehicle class (auto, truck, motorcycle).

Specialty & Personalized Plates

Personalized plates typically transfer with the owner; specialty plates may have restrictions

Verify with your state DMV — some specialty plates are vehicle-specific or class-restricted.

Illinois Standout Rule

Always verify current plate transfer rules with your state DMV before disposing of your old vehicle — losing your plates means buying new ones at full cost.

Illinois-Specific Facts for Plate Transfer

Illinois Vehicle transfer fees and requirements

In Illinois, the title transfer fee is $150 and registration costs $151 per year. Vehicle sales are subject to 6.25% state tax on private sales; local taxes may add 1-4%. Illinois does not require notarization for private-party vehicle transfers. Emission testing is required in Illinois — verify the vehicle passes before completing the sale.

Emissions testing required in Chicagoland and Metro-East St. Louis areas
Private vehicle use tax applies based on purchase price
Title transfer within 20 days of sale
RUT-50 form required for private party purchases

Illinois sales tax on vehicle purchases

Illinois has a 6.25% state sales tax rate. 6.25% state plus 1–4% local taxes. Private-party vehicle sales in Illinois are subject to sales tax. Private vehicle use tax applies based on purchase price bracket. The title transfer fee is $150.

Illinois bill of sale statistics

BillOfSaleNow has generated 3,087 bill of sale documents for Illinois transactions, with 83 generated this month alone. The most popular vehicle type is car.

More Illinois Vehicle Guides

Each guide is written specifically for Illinois laws, agencies, and procedures. Bookmark for future reference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my license plates to a new vehicle in Illinois?

Most states allow plate transfer between vehicles of the same owner. Specific rules vary by state. Some states keep plates with the vehicle; others keep plates with the owner.

How much does it cost to transfer plates in Illinois?

Typically $4–$20 plate transfer fee. In addition to the transfer fee, regular registration fees apply on the new vehicle.

Can I transfer my plates to any vehicle in Illinois?

Same vehicle class typically required. Most states require plate class to match vehicle class (auto, truck, motorcycle).

How long do I have to transfer plates in Illinois?

Typically 30–60 days from vehicle acquisition. Late transfers usually incur a penalty or require new plates at full cost.

Where do I file for a plate transfer in Illinois?

State DMV office or authorized agent. Some states allow online transfers; most require in-person visit for plate transfer.

Selling Your Old Vehicle?

Generate a Illinois bill of sale to document the transfer of your old vehicle before transferring your plates to the new one.

Generate Bill of Sale

Source: State DMV. Plate transfer rules and fees change occasionally — verify current requirements before filing.