Updated 28 September 2026 · Travo.ng
Quick answer
To replace a lost, stolen or damaged number plate in Nigeria, report the loss to the police, swear an affidavit, then apply at your state’s Motor Licensing Office (or an FRSC-approved centre) with proof of ownership, passport photographs and the replacement form. You pay the official fee, the record is verified and a replacement plate is issued, typically within about 10 to 15 days. Only get plates through official channels.
Number plates go missing more often than most drivers expect: they fall off on bad roads, get stolen, fade until they are unreadable or are damaged in an accident. This guide explains when you need a replacement, the documents to prepare, the step-by-step process, what it costs, and how to stay on the right side of the law while you wait.
When do you need a number plate replacement?
- Lost plate: it fell off or went missing.
- Stolen plate: someone removed it, which also creates a risk that it is used on another vehicle.
- Damaged plate: bent, cracked or broken in an accident.
- Faded or worn plate: the colour coating has worn off and the characters are hard to read.
Replacing a plate is different from getting a new registration. A replacement keeps your existing number; a new number (for example a customised or “fancy” plate) is a separate application with its own fees. If you want a personalised plate, see how to buy private plates.
Documents you need
| Document | Why it is needed |
|---|---|
| Police report (extract) | Records the loss or theft officially |
| Affidavit (sworn declaration) | Your sworn statement about the loss and intent to replace |
| Proof of ownership | Shows the vehicle is registered to you |
| Vehicle registration details | So the office can find your record |
| Passport photographs (usually two) | For the application file |
| Valid ID | Confirms the applicant’s identity |
| Completed replacement form and proof of payment | The formal application |
Sources: Wikiprocedure, Nigeria: replacement of a vehicle number plate (last edited 1 May 2025); AutoJosh, how to replace a number plate. Your state office may ask for more; bring originals and photocopies.
Step-by-step: how to replace a number plate in Nigeria
- Report to the police. Go to the nearest police station, explain what happened and obtain a police report (often called a police extract). This is especially important for a stolen plate.
- Swear an affidavit. Depose to an affidavit of loss and intent to replace at a court registry.
- Visit the licensing office. Go to your state’s Motor Licensing Office or Motor Vehicle Administration office, or an approved FRSC centre, and collect the replacement application form. In Lagos, the Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA) is at Block 17, The Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja.
- Fill and attest the form. Complete it, sign it and attach your documents.
- Pay the official fee. Pay only through the approved payment channel and keep your receipt.
- Submit and wait for verification. The office checks your registration record and documents.
- Collect your replacement plate. Processing is commonly quoted as about 10 to 15 days. Fix both plates securely.
How much does number plate replacement cost?
There is no single public price for replacements that we could confirm from an official source. The amount depends on the type of plate and the charges set by government, which are collected through your state licensing office. As a reference point, the standard (private or commercial) number plate fee was reported as ₦30,000 nationwide from June 2025, following a Joint Tax Board and FRSC announcement; your replacement fee may differ, and state charges can be added.
| Plate type | Reported fee from June 2025 |
|---|---|
| Standard (private or commercial) | ₦30,000 |
| Motorcycle | ₦12,000 |
| Articulated vehicle | ₦90,000 |
| Dealer | ₦100,000 |
| Out-of-series | ₦150,000 |
| Fancy (private) | ₦400,000 |
Source: Naira Autos registration fee calculator, citing the Joint Tax Board and FRSC schedule effective 8 June 2025 (viewed 28 Sep 2026). These are plate fees, not a confirmed replacement tariff; police report and affidavit costs are extra. Confirm the current amount with your state office.
What if your plate was stolen?
Treat a stolen plate as urgent. Report it to the police immediately and keep your report, because a plate on the wrong car can be used in crimes that trace back to you. Do not keep driving with one plate for weeks. If you are buying a used car, check that the plate belongs to that vehicle using the FRSC plate verification tool on the National Vehicle Identification Scheme (NVIS) portal.
What if only one plate is missing?
You still need to go through the replacement process. Explain at the licensing office that only the front or rear plate is missing; the requirements are generally the same.
Can you make a replacement plate anywhere?
No. Nigerian plates are produced and issued through the official licensing system. Plates made by roadside vendors are not valid and can land you in trouble at checkpoints. The current format has three letters for the local government area, three numbers and two letters, with the state name and slogan at the top. Private plates use blue characters, commercial plates red and government plates green.
Can you drive without a number plate?
You should not. Vehicles on Nigerian roads are expected to display valid plates, and a missing plate invites trouble at checkpoints; confirm the penalties with FRSC or your state traffic agency. Carry your police report and affidavit while your replacement is processed, and avoid long trips until the new plate is fitted. If you must move the car, consider hiring a driver or arranging recovery rather than driving it yourself.
Car off the road while you sort your plates?
Book a vetted driver and car through Travo for errands, work runs or trips to the licensing office.
Avoiding scams
- Do not pay “agents” who promise same-day plates without documents.
- Pay only into official government payment channels and keep your receipt.
- Check that the plate number on your new plate matches your registration record.
- For questions, contact FRSC (toll-free 122) or your state licensing office.
Preventing plate theft
- Use tamper-resistant screws.
- Check both plates before long journeys.
- Park in well-lit or secured areas.
- Keep copies of your vehicle papers at home; our vehicle documents guide lists what to keep.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I replace a lost number plate in Nigeria?
At your state’s Motor Licensing Office or Motor Vehicle Administration office, or an FRSC-approved centre. In Lagos, that is the MVAA at Alausa, Ikeja.
Do I need a police report to replace my plate?
Yes. A police report and an affidavit are standard requirements for replacing a lost or stolen plate.
How much is number plate replacement in Nigeria?
It depends on your plate type and state charges. The standard plate fee was reported as ₦30,000 from June 2025, but confirm the current replacement fee with your licensing office.
How long does replacement take?
Commonly about 10 to 15 days after you submit a complete application, though it varies by state.
Will I get the same plate number?
A replacement normally keeps your registered number. Choosing a new or personalised number is a separate application.
How can I check if a plate number is genuine?
Use the FRSC number plate verification page on the NVIS portal, or ask your state licensing office.
Related guides
- How to verify vehicle documents in Nigeria
- Buy private plates with Travo
- Car towing service in Lagos
- Book a car or driver on demand
- Car delivery service in Nigeria
Sources: Wikiprocedure (May 2025); AutoJosh; Wikipedia, Vehicle registration plates of Nigeria; Lagos MVAA website; FRSC NVIS portal; Naira Autos (fees citing JTB/FRSC, June 2025), all viewed 28 Sep 2026. Always follow your state licensing office and FRSC. Fares and prices change often — confirm before you travel or pay.
