New York: notifying the DMV after you sell

In New York, the key step is handling your plates. Surrendering or transferring them protects you, and you must do it before you cancel your insurance.

At a glance

• Required? Recommended. Plate surrender or transfer is the main step.
• Deadline: No set deadline, but surrender or transfer your plates before you cancel your insurance
• Form: Plate surrender (you'll get an FS-6T receipt)
• Where to file: Online, by mail, or at a DMV office

What to do

1. Remove your plates before pickup.
2. Surrender them online, by mail or at a DMV office, or transfer them to another vehicle. Do this before you cancel your insurance.
3. Keep your FS-6T plate surrender receipt.

Your license plates

• Remove your plates before pickup. They're yours, not the car's.
• Transfer them, or surrender them to the DMV for a possible registration refund.

Keep for your records

• Your FS-6T plate surrender receipt
• A copy of the signed title
• Your Bill of Sale

Official source

New York DMV: Transfer vehicle ownership

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DMV rules change. Last reviewed October 2026. Check the New York DMV site for the latest requirements.