Replace Registration, Validation Tags and License Plates

Select the item you are replacing.

• Registration or sticker/tag
• Regular/standard issue vehicle license plates
• Specialty/personalized vehicle license plates

Appointments are encouraged for all transactions. 

Learn more.

Replace Registration or Sticker/Tag

To obtain a replacement registration and/or validation sticker/tag, follow these steps.

1. Record the license plate number for the vehicle.
2. Have information available to make a $3 replacement fee.
   1. Electronic check – bank account and routing number, OR
   2. Debit card – transaction fees will be applied, OR
   3. Credit card - transaction fees will be applied.
3. Call 515-286-3030.
4. Make request and provide payment information.
5. The replacement tag will be mailed to the address on file.

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Replace Regular/Standard Issue Vehicle License Plates

To replace regular/standard issue plates at the Polk County Treasurer’s Office, follow these steps. An appointment is encouraged.

1. Visit the Polk County Treasurer’s Office located at 111 Court Avenue, Des Moines. An appointment is encouraged.
2. Surrender remaining license plate(s) for the vehicle.
3. Pay $5.00 replacement fee.
4. A new set of two license plates will immediately be provided.

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Replace Specialty/Personalized Vehicle License Plates

To replace specialty/personalized plates that are the same as the originally-issued plates at the Polk County Treasurer’s Office, follow these steps.

1. Complete Application for Iowa Replacement Plate, form 411006.
2. Email completed form to vehicle@polkcountyiowa.gov.
3. Have information available to make a $5.00 replacement fee during the phone call.
   • Electronic check – bank account and routing number, OR
   • Debit card – a transaction fee will be applied, OR
   • Credit card - a transaction fee will be applied.
4. Call 515-286-3030 to finalize your request and make payment.
5. Receive a letter in the mail that plates are available for pick up.
6. Schedule a required appointment to pick up replacement license plates.
   • Iowa Department of Transportation policy does not allow a non-owner to pick up personalized plates. If you send another individual to drop off the current plates, the new plates will be mailed to the address listed above. A $5.00 postage fee will be charged.
7. Pay $5.00 replacement fee, if not already paid.
8. Surrender any remaining license plate(s) for the vehicle at appointment.
9. Replacement plates will be provided.

To replace specialty/personalized license plates that are different than the original plates, additional fees will apply. Learn more about requesting specialty/personalized plates.

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