This makes no sense! (Re: Car Tabs)

JodiLinn503

I was just looking at the renewal we got in the mail because our tabs expire at the end of this month. They charge $24 to replace the license plates? I looked online and it says that is mandatory every 7 years. WHY? I don't understand how this is necessary. Additionally, there is a $20 charge to keep the same plate number. So, if I don't care about my license number (and I don't) will it never be used again? Or, will someone else get that number? I'm so confused! Can someone explain the rationale to me?

LauraLynneC

I think they actually just changed the license plate re-issue dates - an officer I spoke to (while I was pulled over - whoops!) said it's every 2 years now.  With a new number (he couldn't explain THAT to me...)

*sigh*  they get you coming  AND going...

gina000

Apparently the license plates loose the reflective coating after several years and that is why the need to be replaces.  My guess is they charge you the $ 20 if you want to keep the same number because of the expense of having to custom make the plate. 

MrsH_08

I had to get new ones last year, at the 7 year mark.  They said it's because the reflective coating wears off.

What's ridiculous is that if you want to keep the same plate (letters/numbers), they'd now consider it a personalized plate. :-P

I really miss how IL handles license plates whenever I think about how absurd and unpredictable it is here.  It's a straightforward amount and everyone pays the same thing, unless you want vanity or personalized.  Even those are set amounts and the same for everyone.

itskacie

MrsH_08:

I had to buy new ones last year, at the 7 year mark.  They said it's because the reflective coating wears off.

What's ridiculous is that if you want to keep the same plate (letters/numbers), they'd now consider it a personalized plate. :-P

 

This. And the reason it is an extra charge to keep your number is because they have to customer order one with the same number- otherwise they can just send one out of the stacks they already have on hand. If you go in person they can let you choose from the ones they have (at least they let me, pick one that is easy to remember

mertense

I think that we need new plates to keep my neighbors busy! I live by the state penn and I believe they are made there. I have heard it is because of the reflective coating and they have to special order plates if you want the same number/letter combo. I hope it isn't every two years!