> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://dubs-docs.gitbook.io/tbd-rp-department-of-justice-legal-code/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://dubs-docs.gitbook.io/tbd-rp-department-of-justice-legal-code/unified-code-of-laws/title-6-penal-code/5-vehicular-offenses/5-9-swapping-license-plates.md).

# \[5] 9 - Swapping License Plates

**Offense Classification:** **Misdemeanor / Felony** *(Depending on intent and whether related crimes occurred)*

***

#### **Definition:**

Swapping License Plates occurs when an individual **intentionally removes, replaces, or transfers license plates between vehicles** without proper authorization, typically to **conceal a vehicle’s identity, avoid detection, or commit a secondary offense**. This includes placing valid plates on an unregistered or stolen vehicle.

***

#### **Elements of the Crime:**

* The individual **removed, exchanged, or installed license plates** not assigned to the vehicle in question.
* The individual did so **intentionally and without authorization** from a licensing authority.
* The action was taken to **evade law enforcement, avoid tolls/fines, or support another criminal act**.
* The vehicle was **driven or parked on public roads** while bearing the incorrect plates.

***

#### **Penalties:**

**Misdemeanor:** *(No associated criminal activity, first offense)*

* **Jail Time:** Up to 60 days
* **Fine:** Up to $2,500
* **License Suspension:** Up to 6 months

**Felony:** *(If used in commission of another crime or to conceal a stolen vehicle)*

* **Jail Time:** 1 to 5 years
* **Fine:** Up to $10,000
* **License Suspension:** Up to 2 years

**Additional Consequences:**

* **Vehicle impoundment**
* **Possible registration audit or inspection order**
* **Restitution if third-party loss occurred**

***

#### **Related Charges:**

[**\[5\] 7 - Operating a Vehicle With Stolen Plates**](/tbd-rp-department-of-justice-legal-code/unified-code-of-laws/title-6-penal-code/5-vehicular-offenses/5-7-operating-a-vehicle-with-stolen-plates.md) *(If plates used were stolen)*\
[**\[5\] 8 - Tampering With Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)**](/tbd-rp-department-of-justice-legal-code/unified-code-of-laws/title-6-penal-code/5-vehicular-offenses/5-8-tampering-with-vehicle-identification-number-vin.md) *(If part of a larger identity concealment)*\
[**\[5\] 14 - Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle**](/tbd-rp-department-of-justice-legal-code/unified-code-of-laws/title-6-penal-code/5-vehicular-offenses/5-14-unauthorized-use-of-a-motor-vehicle.md) *(If vehicle itself was not legally possessed)*\
[**\[4\] 1 - Fraud**](/tbd-rp-department-of-justice-legal-code/unified-code-of-laws/title-6-penal-code/4-financial-and-white-collar-crimes/4-1-fraud.md) *(If plate swapping was part of a larger deception scheme)*


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