Any Vermont registration plate that has faded to a point in which its numbers and letters have impaired identification must be replaced. Replacement of faded plates is at no cost to the owner if the fading is caused by faulty materials or a problem with the manufacturing process.
Vehicle Owners
The vehicle owner should submit a completed Replacement Plate Application (DMV Form VD-016) and check the box for two replacement registration plates. Write “FADED PLATES” across the top of the form and check the “faded” box. The vehicle owner will receive a new set of plates and a registration within 3 – 4 weeks. Owners will receive a new plate number unless they have vanity or low-number plates (four digits or less). Vanity and low-number plates will be replaced at no cost.
If an owner wishes to keep their registration number and it is not a vanity or low number, they may do so by paying the replacement plate fee.
This procedure only refers to the replacement of faded plates. Lost or damaged plates must be replaced at the cost of the owner.
Inspection Stations
Any Vermont registration plate that has faded to a point where its numbers and letters have impaired identification must be replaced. Inspection stations are obligated to adhere to the following procedure. Plates will be replaced at no cost to the customer:
- Have the customer complete the Replacement Plate Plate Application (DMV Form VD-016) and check the box for two replacement registration plates
- Write “FADED PLATES” across the top of the form and check the “faded” box
- Do not collect a fee from the customer
- Advise the customer they will receive a new set of plates and a registration within 3 – 4 weeks. Customers will receive a new plate number unless they have vanity or low-number plates (four digits or less). Vanity and low-number plates will be replaced at no cost. If a customer wishes to keep their registration number and it is not a vanity or low number plate, they may do so by paying the replacement plate fee.
- The inspection station must mail the application to the DMV.
- The rest of the vehicle can be inspected per normal procedure, barring any other issues being identified.
This procedure only refers to the replacement of faded plates due to the manufacturing process or faulty materials. Lost or damaged plates must be replaced at the cost of the customer.
Questions regarding this issue should be directed to your area DMV Investigator or the Department of Motor Vehicles Inspection Unit at 802-828-2094.
