Stolen licence plate: what to do and how to protect yourself

Stolen licence plate: understanding the phenomenon and the risks

Why are licence plates stolen? Simply because criminals want to cover their tracks! Stealing licence plates allows them to commit fraud or identity theft. They can use them to commit offences without your knowledge, such as using toll bridges without having to pay “your” bill!

Furthermore, licence plate theft can have serious consequences for a vehicle owner: unwarranted tickets (speed cameras, parking), criminal charges (fuel theft) or administrative complications, to name a few.

Whether your licence plate has been stolen or lost, or your car has been stolen, your responsibility is to act quickly. Take action as soon as possible to avoid being unwittingly linked to illegal activities. Remember that driving without a licence plate is at your own risk and that several simple steps can help thwart these criminals’ game plan.

How to tell if your licence plate has been stolen, tampered with or altered

The best way to prevent licence plate theft is to keep an eye out. You can do a quick check every time you get into your vehicle, especially if it has been parked for an extended period in a public parking lot, such as at a shopping centre.

In this case, it’s advisable to choose a more strategic parking spot—one that is clearly visible and well lit—to reduce the risk of a thief being tempted to steal your licence plate (or your vehicle). Signs to watch for:

• Missing or replaced licence plate.
• Damaged or missing screws.
• Loose or bent licence plate.

Stolen licence plate: what to do right away

Report the theft of your licence plate to the police and the SAAQ

Have you discovered that your vehicle’s licence plate has been stolen? Don’t waste any time. You need to file a police report. Once you’ve completed this step with local police, the next step is to notify the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ).

Contact the SAAQ to prevent your name from being linked to traffic violations committed by a third party and, of course, to find out the procedure and documents required to replace a stolen licence plate. “For security reasons, a licence plate cannot be replaced with one bearing the same number,” the government agency states on its website.

Preventing licence plate theft: simple and effective steps

Use anti-theft screws

• Anti-theft licence plate fasteners are inexpensive.
• Easy to install, they require a specific tool to remove.

Park in visible, well-lit areas

• The goal is to reduce opportunities for would-be thieves.
• Choose busy areas or those that are well lit at night.

Install a camera or surveillance system

• A practical strategy for monitoring your driveway.
• The technology serves as a significant deterrent.

Licence plate theft

Discreet, quick and often underestimated, licence plate theft is far from harmless. In a matter of seconds, a criminal can make off with your licence plate and use it without your knowledge to commit a wide range of offences. The result: unexpected fines, administrative hassles and, undoubtedly, a lot of trouble.

FAQ — Preventing licence plate theft

1. What should you do if your licence plate is stolen in Quebec?
A few phone calls will help resolve the situation. First, file a police report. Once you’ve completed this step with local police, the next step is to notify the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) to have your licence plate replaced and the old one invalidated. Then, notify your property and casualty insurer.

2. Can you drive without a licence plate while waiting for a replacement?
No. To drive the vehicle while waiting to receive your metal licence plate, you must display a temporary paper licence plate in the upper left corner of the rear window.

3. How much does it cost to replace a stolen licence plate through the SAAQ?
The costs for replacing a licence plate are detailed on this page of the SAAQ website. For 2026, a newly issued licence plate, including the registration certificate, costs $13.50. Replacing a personalized licence plate costs $67.55.

4. What should you do about traffic tickets received after your licence plate was stolen?
Dispute them. Keep all documents related to your situation in a safe place (such as the police report number or confirmation of payment for a new licence plate from the SAAQ). You may be asked to provide them if you receive a traffic ticket associated with your old licence plate. As soon as you receive the ticket, contest it promptly by providing proof of the theft.