September 26 2014

Mailbag 55 2014
PEELING PLATES

We have received complaints regarding some older license plates that show delamination (peeling) of
their printed coating. Below is a photo of such a plate. The manufacturers of the plate are investigating
these complaints and have initially advised that delamination is not a natural result of aging. Their review
of these complaints continues in an attempt to correct any manufacturing problems.
Effective immediately, customers presenting plates that are experiencing delamination (as shown below)
should receive a replacement set of plates at no cost. We are waiving the plate fee and transaction fee
for such customers.
Customers presenting plates that show damage from use, fading or cracking, but not delamination, must
be charged the $25 plate fee and the $3.75 transaction fee. A photo of such a plate is attached below.
Customers who have paid the $28.75 fee within the last year when surrendering plates that were
peeling may apply to DMV to receive a refund. Attached is a sample refund application that includes the
language the customer must record on the refund request when applying for a refund for this reason.
Example of coating delamination
(no fee required):

Example of aging or damage

(fee required):