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Origin record closeout

What to do with New Jersey plates after moving to Indiana

The answer can be return, cancel, destroy, recycle, or keep. Follow the reviewed New Jersey instruction only after the Indiana registration and insurance handoff are safe.

Indiana comes first

Complete the replacement record

Apply for the Indiana title and registration within 60 days after becoming a resident to avoid the title-transfer administrative penalty.

Provide financial-responsibility information when purchasing the Indiana plate and registration.

New Jersey closeout

Surrender New Jersey plates that will no longer be used

Return the plates to MVC in person or by mail and keep the surrender receipt. MVC says plates must be returned when vehicle insurance is terminated.

Open the official New Jersey instructionReviewed 2026-07-31
  1. 1. Activate acceptable destination coverage

    Confirm the effective date with the new insurer.

  2. 2. Register in Indiana

    Keep the issued registration or official receipt.

  3. 3. Complete the New Jersey plate action

    Keep the surrender, cancellation, mailing, destruction, or retention record the state provides.

  4. 4. End or rewrite the old policy

    Ask the insurer to use dates that do not create an uncovered active registration.

Sources for this closeout sequence

Open the complete routeCheck the insurance handoff