RTA Number Plate Lost or Damaged in the UAE

Understanding the Importance of Vehicle Number Plates

Vehicle number plates, also known as license plates, serve as unique identifiers for cars, trucks, and motorcycles registered in Dubai. These alphanumeric codes are essential for legal and safety purposes, enabling authorities to track and monitor vehicles on the roads. Driving without a legible number plate is considered a traffic violation that can result in hefty fines and the accumulation of black points on your license.

Reporting a Lost or Stolen Number Plate

If your vehicle's number plate has been stolen or gone missing, the first step is to report the incident to the Dubai Police. This can be done conveniently through the Dubai Police app by selecting the "Lost Certificate" option.

Submitting the Report via the Dubai Police App

- Enter Emirates ID Details: Provide your Emirates ID information as prompted by the app.

- Upload a Photo: Attach a clear photograph of the missing item, in this case, your vehicle's number plate.

- Specify the Location: Indicate the approximate location within Dubai where you lost the number plate.

- Note the Timing: Provide an estimated time when the number plate went missing or was stolen.

- Select "NUMBER PLATE": In the dropdown list, choose the option for a missing "NUMBER PLATE" and follow the prompts to enter the specific plate number and code.

- Pay the Fee: The report will incur a fee of AED 70, which can be paid online through the app.

Once you have submitted the report, you will receive a police certificate within 12 to 24 hours. This document serves as proof of your lost or stolen number plate and is essential for the next step in the process.

Applying for a Replacement Number Plate

With the police certificate in hand, you can proceed to the nearest RTA Tasjeel center to apply for a replacement number plate. Follow these steps:

- Visit the Reception Counter: Present the police certificate to the reception staff at the RTA Tasjeel center.

- Receive a Ticket Number: You will be assigned a ticket number and directed to a designated counter for further assistance.

- Pay the Replacement Fee: At the counter, you will need to pay a fee of AED 70 to obtain the replacement number plate.

- Collect the New Number Plate: After completing the payment, you will receive your new vehicle number plate.

It's important to note that the replacement fees may vary depending on the type of number plate you require. For instance, the cost for a short plate is AED 35, while a long plate costs AED 50. Luxury plates and special plates, such as those for motorcycles or the Expo, may have different fee structures.

Replacing a Damaged Number Plate

If your vehicle's number plate is damaged to the point where the numbers or letters are no longer clearly visible, you will need to replace it as well. In this case, you do not need to obtain a police certificate. Instead, follow these steps:

- Visit an RTA Tasjeel Center: Head to the nearest RTA Tasjeel center with your damaged number plate.

- Approach the Reception Counter: Present the damaged plate to the reception staff and request a replacement.

- Pay the Replacement Fee: You will be directed to a counter where you can pay the applicable fee for a new number plate.

- Collect the New Number Plate: After completing the payment, you will receive your replacement number plate.

It's important to note that you must provide the original damaged number plate when applying for a replacement. Failure to do so may result in additional fees or complications in the process.

Purchasing a Number Plate Online

In certain cases, you may need to purchase a new number plate without the need for a replacement. The RTA offers an online portal where you can conveniently buy a new number plate and have it delivered to your preferred RTA center for collection.

- Visit the RTA Portal: Access the RTA's official website and navigate to the section for purchasing number plates.

- Select the Plate Type: Choose the type of number plate you require, such as a short plate (AED 35) or a long plate (AED 50).

- Complete the Purchase: Follow the prompts to complete the online purchase and make the necessary payment.

- Collect the Plate: Once the transaction is complete, you can visit the designated RTA center to collect your new number plate.

It's important to note that when collecting the plate, you may need to pay an additional fee of AED 5 for the physical pressing of the plate onto the metal or plastic surface.

Consequences of Driving Without a Number Plate

Driving without a legible number plate in Dubai is a serious offense that can lead to severe penalties. According to local traffic laws, operating a vehicle without a number plate can result in a fine of AED 3,000 and the accumulation of 24 black points on your license. In extreme cases, your vehicle may even be confiscated for up to 90 days.

To avoid these harsh consequences, it's crucial to promptly replace a lost, stolen, or damaged number plate using the appropriate channels provided by the RTA.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to receive a replacement number plate?

The processing time for a replacement number plate can vary, but typically, you can expect to receive it within 10 minutes of submitting your application and making the necessary payment at an RTA Tasjeel center.

2. Can I drive my vehicle while waiting for the replacement number plate?

It is generally not advisable to drive your vehicle without a legible number plate, as it constitutes a traffic violation. However, if you have obtained a police certificate for a lost or stolen plate and have applied for a replacement, you may be able to drive your vehicle until the new plate arrives, provided you carry the police certificate with you.

3. What happens if I find my lost number plate after obtaining a replacement?

If you happen to find your lost number plate after receiving a replacement, you should surrender the original plate to the RTA. Failure to do so may result in penalties or complications in the future.

4. Can I transfer my existing number plate to a new vehicle?

Yes, the RTA allows you to transfer your existing number plate to a new vehicle. However, there may be additional fees and procedures involved in this process, which can be clarified by contacting the RTA or visiting one of their customer service centers.

Conclusion

Losing or damaging your vehicle's number plate can be an inconvenient situation, but the RTA in Dubai has streamlined the process to ensure a smooth and efficient resolution. By following the proper steps, reporting the incident promptly, and adhering to the required procedures, you can obtain a replacement number plate without facing unnecessary penalties or legal complications. Remember, driving without a legible number plate is a traffic violation that can result in hefty fines and the accumulation of black points on your license, so it's crucial to address the issue promptly.