Pennsylvania DMV: Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) serves as the state’s DMV through the Driver & Vehicles division. The agency oversees vehicle registration, driver licensing, and road safety regulations statewide. Located at 1101 South Front Street, Harrisburg, PA 17104, PennDOT provides essential services including vehicle registration renewals and driver’s license applications. Residents can access these services through multiple branches across the state, with convenient online and in-person options available.

For assistance, you can reach PennDOT by phone at 717-412-5300 (TTY: 711) during their hours of operation: Monday through Friday (except holidays), from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. E.T. Visit their website at prddmv.pwpca.pa.gov for more information. License Plate Design and Format: Pennsylvania’s license plates feature a design of dark blue characters on a reflective white background, bordered by navy blue at the top and yellow at the bottom. The plate includes the state outline at the top left corner, adding a distinctive touch to its appearance. The serial format follows ABC-1234, providing a clear and organized identification system for vehicles across the state. Additionally, the slogan “visitPA.com” is prominently displayed on the plate, promoting tourism and encouraging exploration of Pennsylvania’s attractions.
Display Requirements: Since 1952, standard passenger vehicles in Pennsylvania have been required to display only a rear plate. Similarly, many other classes of vehicles also require only a rear plate. However, front plates are mandated for vehicles owned by the state and vehicles owned by press photographers.

Types of Pennsylvania License Plates: Pennsylvania provides a variety of license plate options to meet diverse preferences and requirements. These include standard issue plates, military plates, special fund plates, plates for special organizations, personalized plates, specialty plates, and vintage plates. Each type offers vehicle owners the opportunity to personalize their vehicles or show support for specific causes and organizations through their registration.

Vehicle Registration and Renewal: To register a vehicle in Pennsylvania, the owner must submit a valid title, proof of insurance, proof of identity, VIN verification, and payment of fees. Out-of-state vehicles must be registered within 20 days of becoming residents. Registration can be renewed online, by mail, or in person. Certain vehicles, like fleet and dealer registrations, are not eligible for online renewal.

Pennsylvania License Plate Transfer: License plates can be transferred to another vehicle owned by the registrant or a family member (spouse, parent, or child). Proof of ownership for both vehicles and completion of PennDOT forms are required. Any outstanding obligations, such as parking tickets, must be settled before the transfer.

PA License Plate Replacement: If a license plate is lost, stolen, damaged, or illegible, a replacement can be obtained from PennDOT. In case of loss or theft, notify the police within 48 hours. Submit a replacement request to PennDOT along with any required fees.