Can I just bring in my unused Illinois license plates and drop off, without a appointment?
A) No, you cannot drop off unused Illinois license plates without an appointment. You can make an appointment online or by calling 800-252-8980 (Illinois Only). The appointment can be made for any Secretary of State facility in Illinois. When you arrive for your appointment, you will need to bring your unused license plates, your driver’s license, and proof of vehicle ownership. The plates will be recycled.
If you do not have time to make an appointment, you can also surrender your plates at a drop-off bin located at most Secretary of State facilities. However, there is no guarantee that the plates will be recycled if you do this.
It is important to note that you do not have to surrender your unused Illinois license plates. You can also dispose of them yourself by bending them, removing and destroying the stickers, and/or recycling them. However, if you are caught driving with expired plates, you could be fined up to $100.
Here are the steps on how to surrender your unused Illinois license plates:
- Make an appointment online or by calling 800-252-8980 (Illinois Only).
- Bring your unused license plates, your driver’s license, and proof of vehicle ownership to your appointment.
- The plates will be recycled.