How to Replace a Lost Car Number Plate in All Emirates: A Step-by-Step Guide

In the UAE, replacing a lost car number plate is an important legal requirement, as driving without one is subject to strict penalties. Each emirate has a slightly different procedure for replacing a lost car number plate, although the general process across the country is generally straightforward. In this article, we’ve listed the specific steps, fees, and required documents for replacing your lost car plate in Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates. 

Importance of replacing a lost car plate number

A car plate number is a vital identification tool linked to both the vehicle and its owner, and a missing number plate can lead to complications if misused by others or if the vehicle is stopped by authorities. The UAE police impose fines for driving without a plate, underscoring the need for prompt replacement. Penalties for missing plates can vary, but they include fines and legal consequences if not addressed immediately. Therefore, reporting the loss to authorities as soon as possible is highly recommended. 

Generally speaking, you may incur a fine of 3,000 AED and 24 black points. In some cases, the vehicles may even be confiscated for a period of 90 days. 

What to do after losing your car number plate?

The initial steps after losing your car number plate may vary according to the emirate you are in. However, despite the slight differences, the process will always include the following: 

1. Report the loss to the police:

Make sure to visit the nearest police station and report the loss of a car number plate. You will receive a police report, which is necessary for issuing a new car plate. 

2. Have required documents handy:

Each emirate will typically require you to submit the following: 

• Valid Emirates ID
• Copy of the police report
• Vehicle’s registration card
• If applicable, an authorization letter from your employer if the vehicle is company-owned

These documents will be necessary to apply for the issuance of a new car number plate. 

3. Inform your insurance provider:

This step isn’t necessary, but it may be beneficial in case your car plate has been stolen or lost due to theft or an accident, as some policies may cover the replacement costs. 

Once these steps are followed, you are ready to apply for a new number plate, which will vary according to the emirates your car is registered in. 

Replacing a lost car number plate in Dubai

Dubai residents have the convenience of applying for the service either online or at any Customer Happiness Center. The process of applying for a new plate number is straightforward and easy and shouldn’t take too much of your time. 

• When applying digitally, follow these steps: 
• Log into the RTA official website
• Select “Apply to Vehicle Plate Management” 
• Complete the identity verification by either inputting your UAE ID number, plate number, driving license number, or traffic file number 
• Choose the option “Replace a Lost or Damaged Plate” from “Vehicle Licensing Services”
• Settle the required fees
• Receive the plates from the designated center

When applying physically, you will need the following: 

• Fill in the necessary documents at the Customers Happiness Center
• Pay the replacement fees

Fees for replacing a car number plate in Dubai are:

• AED 35 for a short plate
• AED 50 for a long plate
• AED 500 for a luxury or custom plate
• AED 20 knowledge and innovation fee if the service exceeds 50 AED

Once the application is approved and the fees are paid, you will receive a replacement number plate within a few business days. 

Replacing a lost car number plate in Abu Dhabi

In Abu Dhabi, residents have the option to register the lost/damaged car plate number through the TAMM portal. 

Alternatively, they may visit the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) centers to apply in person. 

Required documents for both online and in-person options include: 

• Emirates ID
• A police report
• Vehicle’s registration card
• If applicable, an authorization letter from your employer if the vehicle is company-owned

On the website, locate the “Requests for Replacement Number Plate” service and upload the necessary documents. Choose the type of replacement plate and pay the relevant fees. 

Fees for replacing a car number plate in Abu Dhabi are:

• AED 35 for a basic replacement
• Additional charges for specific plate types
• AED 20 knowledge fee for transactions exceeding AED 50

Typically, plates are ready in a few business days or can be delivered directly to an address. 

Replacing a lost car number plate in Sharjah and other Emirates

In Sharjah and other emirates, replacing a lost or stolen car number plate usually requires visiting the local police station first and then completing an application at a vehicle licensing center or an equivalent transport authority (Machinery licensing department center, for instance). 

The documents required to create an application are the following: 

• Emirates ID
• Police report
• Vehicle’s registration card
• If applicable, an authorization letter from your employer if the vehicle is company-owned

Fees for replacing a car number plate in Sharjah are:

• AED 70 for one plate
• AED 120 for two plates
• AED 70 for a motorcycle plate

Like in other emirates, the new plate is typically ready within a few business days once the application is accepted and all the fees are paid.

Conclusion

In order to remain on the right side of the law and ensure you will not face hefty penalties, it is recommended to immediately report a lost/stolen car number plate in Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, or other emirates. 

Not doing so may lead to fines and black penalty points, which may cost you your driver’s license. The initial steps described above are very simple to follow and will allow you a quick and easy renewal of the number plates, which will only take a few moments. 

Always ensure you have all the valid documentation with you before applying online or visiting the nearest police station or a Customer Happiness Center.