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.
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.
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:
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.
Each emirate will typically require you to submit the following:
These documents will be necessary to apply for the issuance of a new car number plate.
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.
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 physically, you will need the following:
Fees for replacing a car number plate in Dubai are:
Once the application is approved and the fees are paid, you will receive a replacement number plate within a few business days.
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:
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.
Typically, plates are ready in a few business days or can be delivered directly to an address.
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:
Fees for replacing a car number plate in Sharjah are:
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.
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.
