Windshield Registration Expiration Stickers
Questions and Answers About New Registration Stickers
DMV's Bill Seymour answers frequently asked questions about the new registration stickers (Posted: 7/12/06)
DMV to Issue New Registration Stickers- Announcement by Governor Rell
DMV's Bill Seymour explains why DMV will be issuing new registration stickers (Posted: 7/12/06)
What is a registration sticker and do they expire?
All states use a sticker to show that the vehicle is properly registered. It is located either on the permanent metal plate, as Connecticut requires, or elsewhere on the vehicle. They show an expiration date for the registration. DMV will now use a windshield sticker to show proper registration and the program will be phased in during the next two years.
Where will the new sticker be located?
Place the new windshield sticker on the lower inside corner of the driver’s side of the front windshield. Do not block the view of the Vehicle Identification Number. The sticker will partially destruct upon removal to prevent fraudulent use.
Why is the sticker being removed from the rear plate?
Connecticut police have reported a high incidence of theft of marker plates and “plate clipping.” The primary reason for relocating the sticker to the inside of the vehicle is to deter and eliminate problems of theft and misuse. Use of invalid plates deprives the state of fees and may allow individuals to avoid paying municipal property taxes. Although owners whose license plates are stolen or clipped may obtain replacement plates, this can be time consuming and inconvenient for them. A task force has recommended that placing the sticker inside the vehicle will help to eliminate license plate theft for its registration sticker.
When will the new stickers be issued?
Licensed dealers and DMV Branch Offices will be issuing the windshield stickers with new registrations on or after Setpember 1. Windshield stickers will be mailed starting about mid-July, 2006, with all paid registration renewals.
What happens to the sticker on the rear marker plate?
DMV advises vehicle owners that they may remove the old sticker or cover it with black marker, but there is no obligation to do so. Proof of a valid and current registration will be both the windshield sticker issued and the certificate of registration mailed after the renewal is paid.
Will the police know that a windshield sticker has been issued?
Yes. Police Departments will receive updated information from DMV.
What if a vehicle is sold, transferred, or junked?
The owner should remove the windshield sticker from the vehicle. The sticker will partially destruct upon removal. DMV is advising owners to attach the remains of the sticker to the certificate of registration and return both to any branch office. DMV may require a customer to complete a lost plate/sticker form (form E-159) if the customer fails to return the sticker.
What if the windshield sticker is not received from DMV or it is lost or destroyed?
Customers can obtain a replacement windshield sticker at a DMV branch office by signing a replacement affidavit.
What happens to the registration when a car is purchased from a dealer?
You will either receive a windshield sticker with new plates or keep your current plates and sticker if you are transferring your plates. Dealers have been instructed by the DMV on the proper procedures for these transactions.
What if I purchase a new vehicle from a dealer and I already have a windshield sticker on my current vehicle?
In this case, the dealer will remove the windshield sticker and will issue a temporary windshield sticker for the new car. DMV will mail a permanent windshield sticker within 60 days.
What if I have a windshield sticker and my windshield is replaced?
The auto-glass installer will provide a temporary windshield sticker valid for 10 days. A permanent windshield sticker can be obtained at any DMV branch office after providing proof, such as an invoice, that the windshield was replaced.
What if I drive out of state?
The windshield sticker, combined with a marker plate and certificate of registration, will be accepted as proof of registration. Several other states also have a windshield location for the expiration sticker.
How will DMV prevent fraud?
DMV has worked to create a windshield sticker with anti-fraud and anti-theft components. Persons who use fraudulent registration materials are in violation of the law and will be prosecuted.