I just noticed that my front license plate seems to have been stolen over the weekend. I’ve never had to deal with this situation. What do I do in this instance?

A) I’m sorry to hear about the stolen license plate. Dealing with a stolen license plate can be frustrating, but there are some steps you can take to address the situation:

1. File a Police Report: As soon as you discover that your license plate has been stolen, you should report the theft to your local police department. They will document the incident and provide you with a copy of the police report, which might be required for certain procedures.
2. Contact the DMV: You should also contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent authority to report the stolen license plate. They might have specific procedures in place for handling stolen plates and can provide you with guidance on what steps to take next.
3. Request a Replacement Plate: In most cases, you’ll need to request a replacement license plate from the DMV. They will provide you with a new set of plates and might issue a new plate number as well. There might be a fee associated with getting replacement plates.
4. Prevent Misuse: Since stolen license plates can potentially be misused for illegal activities, having a copy of the police report and the replacement plate documentation can be helpful in case you need to prove that you’re no longer in possession of the stolen plates.
5. Secure Your Vehicle: To prevent further incidents, make sure to park your vehicle in well-lit and secure areas. If possible, consider installing security cameras or taking other precautions to deter theft.
6. Check for Outstanding Tickets: Sometimes stolen license plates are used to avoid traffic violations. After getting your replacement plates, check with your local law enforcement or DMV to ensure that there are no outstanding tickets or violations associated with the stolen plates.
7. Update Your Insurance: If your stolen license plate was connected to your vehicle insurance information, make sure to inform your insurance provider about the theft and provide them with the necessary details about the replacement plates.

Remember that the specific steps and procedures might vary depending on your location and the local regulations. It’s a good idea to contact your local DMV or relevant authority to get accurate information tailored to your situation.