Under Title 20, what is the procedure if a vehicle's license plates are lost or stolen?

• A. Report it to the authorities and apply for replacement plates through the DMV
• B. Simply apply for new plates without a report
• C. Notify your insurance company only
• D. Wait 30 days before taking any action

Answer: (A)

The correct procedure when a vehicle's license plates are lost or stolen is to report the incident to the authorities and apply for replacement plates through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This is important for several reasons.

Firstly, reporting to the authorities helps create an official record of the theft or loss, which can be crucial in case of any future issues related to the misuse of those plates. It also assists law enforcement in tracking and resolving any potential criminal activity associated with the stolen plates.

Secondly, applying for replacement plates through the DMV ensures that you are following the legal requirements set forth by the state. The DMV typically requires documentation of the loss or theft, which can include a police report. By doing this, you ensure that the replacement process is legitimate and secure.

Other options do not fulfill these necessary procedural steps, which could lead to complications down the line or potentially place the vehicle owner at risk if someone else uses the lost or stolen plates. Therefore, properly reporting and applying for replacement plates is crucial to maintain compliance with motor vehicle laws and to protect oneself from legal repercussions.