Shedding Your New York Plates: A Guide (Because Let's Face It, You're Moving On, Up, and Out)
So, you're ditching the Big Apple (or maybe the not-so-Big Buffalo)? Congratulations! You're probably busy wrangling moving boxes, dodging rogue pigeons, and mentally preparing yourself for a life without dollar pizza. But hold on there, maverick, before you just chuck your New York license plates in the recycling bin (tempting, we know), there are a few things you gotta do.
Fear not, fellow relocator! This guide will be your compass as you navigate the (hopefully not too bureaucratic) jungle of returning your New York State license plates.
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| How Do I Turn In My New York State License Plates | 
First Things First: Getting Your Ducks in a Row (No, Not the Ones on the Subway)
- Address Check: This might seem obvious, but listen up. The DMV will be sending you a plate surrender receipt and, depending on the situation, a refund check. Make sure your address on file is up-to-date. Nobody wants important car-related documents disappearing into the abyss. 
- Plate Prep: Those once-proud New York plates clinging to your car? Time to say goodbye. Remove the plates and any pesky registration stickers. 
- Paper Power: You'll need to fill out a form called a PD-7. This isn't brain surgery, but it is important. Grab the form online or snag one at your local DMV office. 
Two Roads Diverge in the DMV Woods (But Chill, It's Not That Dramatic)
Now, you have a choice, adventurer:
Tip: Be mindful — one idea at a time.
- The DMV Daredevil: Feeling brave? Head down to your local DMV office. Be prepared to wait, armed with your PD-7 form, those sweet, sweet license plates, and maybe a flask of courage (just kidding... mostly). There might be a small processing fee, but hey, at least you get to experience the thrill of DMV life (or the crushing boredom, depending on your perspective). 
- The Mailbox Mastermind: The DMV a bit too "Game of Thrones" for your taste? Not a problem! You can mail your plates in. Pop them in an envelope (no boxes!), along with your completed PD-7 form, and address it to the address provided on the form (don't worry, it won't be Mordor). 
Important Note: Keep that FS-6T receipt they send you. It's proof that you surrendered your plates, and you might need it someday (like if your car gets mysteriously towed in a faraway land... okay, unlikely, but hey, be prepared!).
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FAQ: Turning in Your New York Plates, Achievement Unlocked!
- How to find a DMV office near me? The New York State DMV website has a handy dandy office locator (https://dmv.ny.gov/offices/county-offices).
- How long does it take to get a refund for my license plates? This depends, but it generally takes 4-6 weeks.
- Can I keep my New York license plates? Nope. New York plates can't be transferred to another person, but you can transfer the registration to another vehicle you own in the state.
- What if I lose my license plates before I can turn them in? Contact the DMV as soon as possible. There may be a fee involved, but you don't want to be held liable for any misuse.
- I sold my car with the New York plates on it. What do I do? Let the DMV know and surrender the registration, not the plates. The new owner will register the car in their state.
And there you have it! You've successfully returned your New York license plates. Now, go forth and conquer your new adventure (and maybe find a place with decent pizza).
Tip: Check back if you skimmed too fast.