How to Change Your Car License Plate in Vietnam: A Comprehensive Guide

My friend, a small business owner in Hanoi, transports goods from large truck dealerships like Thaco Truong Long on Nguyen Van Linh Street to smaller shops in the city. He recently confided in me about his struggling business and his plan to sell his old truck and upgrade to a new Hyundai HD120 for better luck. I asked him, “Do you know the process for changing your car’s license plate?” He hesitated and admitted he was clueless about where to even begin.

Understanding his concerns, I decided to share this detailed guide on how to change your car’s license plate in Vietnam, hoping to help him and others navigate this process.

Why Change Your Car License Plate?

Changing your car’s license plate is necessary in several situations, such as:

• Change of ownership: When buying or selling a used car, transferring ownership and changing the license plate is mandatory.
• Relocating to a new province: If you move from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, you need to change your license plate according to regulations.
• Damaged or faded license plate: A worn-out, peeling license plate is a valid reason to request a new one.
• Upgrading to a new car: Many believe that getting a new license plate with a new car brings good luck and prosperity.

Advantages of Changing Your Car License Plate

• Legal compliance: Ensures your vehicle’s documentation is valid, avoiding issues with authorities.
• Increased resale value: Cars with desirable, easy-to-remember license plates often fetch higher prices.
• Feng Shui considerations: Many believe a lucky license plate aligned with Feng Shui principles brings good fortune to the owner.

Disadvantages of Changing Your Car License Plate

• Time and effort: Requires preparing documents and visiting relevant authorities.
• Incurred costs: License plate replacement fees and potential service charges.

Detailed Procedure for Changing Your Car License Plate

1. Prepare the Necessary Documents

The required documents for changing your car license plate include:

• Original vehicle registration certificate.
• Owner’s ID card/Citizen identity card.
• Household registration book (notarized copy).
• Documents proving the vehicle’s origin (sales contract, gift certificate, etc.).

2. Submit Documents and Complete Procedures at the Police Department

Bring your documents to the Traffic Police Department (PC08) of the provincial/city police where the vehicle is registered.

Note:

• Double-check your documents before submission to avoid multiple trips.
• You can authorize someone else to handle the procedures with a valid power of attorney.

3. License Plate Replacement Fees

Reference table of license plate replacement fees:

Note: Fees may vary based on local regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Changing Car License Plates

1. How long does it take to change a car license plate?

The process usually takes about 1-2 weeks.

2. Can I choose my desired license plate number?

You can register for a random license plate number or choose one from the available numbers at the registration office. However, choosing a desirable number often incurs a higher fee.

3. My truck was purchased in Hanoi, but I want to move to Ho Chi Minh City. What is the procedure for changing the license plate?

You need to withdraw the original vehicle registration documents in Hanoi and bring them to Ho Chi Minh City to register and obtain a new license plate.

A new Hyundai HD120 truck

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