Can You Change the License Plate When Buying a Used Car?

(Photo Credit: freepik)

Many people care about their license plate numbers more than just as a vehicle identifier. Some believe certain numbers bring good luck, while others think some numbers are unlucky.

If you're wondering, "Can I change the license plate when buying a used car?" The answer is yes! Whether you're buying a brand-new or second-hand car, you can change the license plate to a number that suits you better. If you don’t like your current plate or think it's unlucky, here’s how you can get it changed.

How Many Ways Can You Change a License Plate?

Requesting a New License Plate Number

If you want a brand-new license plate number that has never been used before, follow these steps:

• Reserve a new number: If your car is registered in Bangkok, you can book your preferred plate number through "tabienrod.com." If it's registered in a different province, you’ll need to visit the Department of Land Transport (DLT) office in your area.
• Replace the old plate: Once you’ve secured your new plate number, you can swap it right away. However, your car’s road tax must be valid for at least 30 days. If it’s due soon, you’ll need to renew it first.

Swapping License Plates Between Two Registered Vehicles

If you have two vehicles and want to exchange their license plates, both cars must be registered in the same area. If they are registered in different provinces, the DLT office will review the request on a case-by-case basis. The tax validity rule applies here as well—the car must have at least 30 days of road tax remaining to proceed with the change.

Can You Change the License Plate If the Car Is on Finance?

If your car is still under a financing agreement (loan), you can still change the license plate! However, you’ll need to borrow the registration book from your finance company and provide a letter of authorization. Some finance companies may require a security deposit of 2,000-5,000 THB, depending on their policy. One important condition: your car loan must be up to date with no overdue payments, or you won’t be able to proceed until all outstanding payments are settled.

(Photo Credit: freepik)

Required Documents for Changing a License Plate

Requesting a New License Plate

• Original vehicle registration book
• Owner’s ID card
• Business registration certificate (if applying as a company)
• Power of attorney (if applicable)
• Authorized person’s ID card (if applicable)

Swapping License Plates Between Registered Cars

• Original vehicle registration book
• Owner’s ID card
• Business registration certificate (if applying as a company)
• Existing license plates (if switching plates between different provinces)

License Plate Change Fees

Requesting a New Plate

• Plate number reservation fee: 500 THB
• Auctioned license plate fee: 1,500 THB
• New license plate fee: 100 THB per plate
• Other processing fees: 75 THB (includes application fee, registration book updates, and tax sticker replacement)

Swapping License Plates Between Two Registered Cars

• License plate change fee: 500 THB
• New license plate fee (if needed): 100 THB per plate
• Other processing fees: 75 THB

If you're planning to change your license plate after buying a used car, make sure to prepare all necessary documents and fees in advance to avoid any hiccups. Also, before purchasing a second-hand car, do a thorough quality check and buy from a reliable dealer to avoid scams. Most importantly, don't forget to get car insurance for peace of mind on the road. If you’re unsure where to start, look for insurance plans offering up to 30% discounts, 10-month installment plans, and nationwide repair coverage—that way, you can drive worry-free!

Read More:  Thai Driving License: Where Can You Use It Abroad?

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