What is the appropriate action when a registration plate is lost?

When a registration plate is lost, the proper course of action is to report the loss and apply for a replacement. This is important for several reasons. First, the registration plate serves as a legal identifier for the vehicle, and driving without it can lead to legal penalties or fines. Reporting the loss ensures that the authorities are aware that the plate is missing, potentially preventing fraudulent activity or misuse of the lost plate by another individual.

Applying for a replacement generally involves contacting your local motor vehicle department or agency, completing the necessary paperwork, and paying any applicable fees. This process not only reinstates your legal compliance but also helps maintain accurate records within the state's vehicle registration system. Choosing to drive without the plate, ignore it, or sell the vehicle would likely lead to more significant issues, including legal repercussions for operating a vehicle that is not properly registered.