What Is License Plate Replacement In Nova Scotia?
License plate replacement in Nova Scotia refers to obtaining new license plates when the current plates are lost, stolen, damaged, or need replacing. The Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) oversees the replacement of license plates.
Replacing license plates ensures that the vehicle displays valid, legible plates as required by the Motor Vehicle Act.
When Do You Need To Replace Your Nova Scotia License Plate?
There are several situations when a license plate needs to be replaced in Nova Scotia:
• If the plates are lost or stolen
• If the plates become damaged, illegible, or otherwise deteriorated
• If new plates are issued after a registration renewal or transfer
• If getting a new personalized or specialty plate
• If transferring plates to a new vehicle
In each case, the vehicle owner must obtain replacement plates from the RMV as soon as possible. Driving without valid plates is illegal and can result in significant fines and penalties under the Motor Vehicle Act.
How Can You Get A Replacement License Plate In Nova Scotia?
To get a replacement license plate in Nova Scotia, follow these steps:
-
Report lost or stolen plates to the police and obtain a case number.
-
Visit any Access Nova Scotia Centre or Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) office.
-
Bring the following:
• A valid Nova Scotia driver's license or government-issued photo ID
• The current vehicle permit
• The police case number (if plates were lost or stolen)
• Payment for the replacement fee
-
Complete a plate Replacement Application form, available at the Access Nova Scotia Centre or RMV office.
-
Pay the replacement fee
-
Receive the new plates and affix them to the vehicle according to RMV placement guidelines.
Where Can You Replace A License Plate In Nova Scotia?
License plate replacement in Nova Scotia can be done at all Access Nova Scotia Centres and Registry of Motor Vehicles offices throughout the province. These locations are equipped to process license plate replacements, update vehicle registrations, and handle insurance-related matters.
Can You Replace A Nova Scotia License Plate Online?
No, Nova Scotia license plates cannot be replaced online at this time. The process requires an in-person visit to an Access Nova Scotia Centre or Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) office.
When Must You Replace Your License Plate In Nova Scotia?
License plates in Nova Scotia must be replaced immediately when damaged, lost, stolen, or otherwise unfit for use. The Motor Vehicle Act of Nova Scotia requires all vehicles to display valid, legible license plates at all times when operating on public roads.
Specific situations requiring immediate replacement include:
• Physical damage that affects plate legibility
• Loss or theft of one or both plates
• Severe fading or peeling of the reflective coating
• When the plate design is declared obsolete by Service Nova Scotia
Do You Need Insurance To Get Replacement Plates In Nova Scotia?
Yes, valid automobile insurance is needed for replacement license plates in Nova Scotia. Vehicle registration and insurance are closely linked in the province administered by the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV).
When visiting an Access Nova Scotia Centre or RMV office to replace license plates, they will verify that the vehicle has active automobile insurance before issuing new plates. If the insurance has expired or been canceled, the insurance coverage will need to be reinstated before replacement plates can be obtained.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace A License Plate In Nova Scotia?
In Nova Scotia, the cost to replace a license plate varies depending on the condition of the plate:
- Replacement is free for peeling or defective plates: You can get a new plate at no cost when you visit an Access Nova Scotia Centre.
- Defective Licence Plate—Specific Series (E or F series): If you have a defective license plate within the EAA001 to EZZ999 or FAA001 to FZZ999 series, the replacement is also free, regardless of whether you return the old plate.
- If a license plate is lost, destroyed, or stolen, there is a replacement fee of $5.80 per plate. For vehicles that require two plates, even if only one is lost, the total cost is $11.60.
How Long Does It Take To Get Replacement License Plates In Nova Scotia?
In most cases, replacement license plates can be obtained immediately when visiting an Access Nova Scotia Centre or Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) office in Nova Scotia. The process typically takes less than an hour, provided all necessary documents and payment are available. If personalized or specialty plates are required, they may need to be ordered from the RMV's central office. This process can take 3-4 weeks, but a temporary permit to drive will be issued to use in the interim.