How to Transfer Your TLC Plates from Your Old Car to Your New Car

What a TLC Plate Transfer Is

A TLC plate transfer allows you to move the same TLC plate number from your old vehicle to your new one. The TLC updates the vehicle license to reflect the new car while keeping your existing plates active.

A plate transfer is used when you are replacing your current TLC vehicle and want to continue using your existing plates. It is not used to replace damaged plates, change plate numbers, or transfer plates to another person.

Before You Begin: Requirements You Must Have

• The new vehicle must meet TLC eligibility requirements.
• The new vehicle must be fully registered with the NYS DMV.
• Your TLC insurance must be updated with the new vehicle’s VIN.
• Your TLC driver and vehicle licenses must be active.
• Access to your TLC Up account.

Having these items ready helps prevent delays during the transfer process.

Step 1: Register the New Vehicle With the DMV

Register the new vehicle with the New York State DMV before starting the TLC transfer. Bring title or lease documents, proof of insurance, and any required DMV forms.

Important: Keep your TLC plates installed on your old vehicle until TLC formally approves the transfer. Removing them early can cause violations or delays.

Step 2: Update Your TLC Insurance Policy

Before the TLC will activate your new vehicle, your insurance broker must update the policy to reflect:

• New vehicle VIN
• TLC plate number
• Required TLC coverage limits

Your broker will issue updated documents (for example, an FH-1 and a declarations page). TLC verifies these documents electronically as part of the transfer.

Step 3: Submit the Plate Transfer Request Through TLC Up

Log into your TLC Up account and choose the vehicle transfer option. Provide the new vehicle details, upload documents if requested, and pay the required TLC fees.

Submitting this request officially notifies the TLC that you want to move your plates to the new vehicle.

Step 4: Complete TLC Inspection (If Required)

Depending on the vehicle’s age and mileage, TLC may require an inspection before approving the transfer. If an inspection is needed, TLC will schedule the appointment through TLC Up.

For the inspection, bring the vehicle, DMV registration, and updated insurance documents. The transfer cannot be finalized until the vehicle passes inspection.

Step 5: Move Your TLC Plates to the New Vehicle

1. Remove the TLC plates from your old vehicle.
2. Install the plates on your new vehicle.
3. Confirm your insurance carrier and base have updated the vehicle information.
4. Verify activation in TLC Up before accepting any trips.

After activation, your old vehicle is removed from your TLC license and is no longer authorized for TLC operations.

Important Reminders for a Smooth Transfer

• Do not remove plates until TLC approves the transfer.
• Do not operate the new vehicle for TLC trips until TLC activates it.
• Confirm insurance is updated before submitting the transfer request.
• Attend the inspection appointment if one is scheduled.
• Notify your base of the new vehicle details so they can update their records.

Need Help With Your TLC Plate Transfer or Vehicle Paperwork?