How to Upcycle, Sell, or Recycle Your Old License Plates

Old license plates can be repurposed, sold, or recycled in several creative and practical ways. Here’s a comprehensive guide to make the most of your unused plates:

Creative Upcycling Ideas

1. Wall Art

• Create Decor: Use plates as is or cut and arrange them to form messages, words, or collages.
• Collage Ideas: Represent states you’ve visited or places you’ve lived by arranging the plates in a meaningful pattern.

2. Bookends

• How-To: Bend one edge of a license plate about 3.5 inches (8.9 cm) to form a base. The remaining upright section will support books.
• Tools Needed: Straightedge, ruler, marker.

3. Dustpan

• Steps: Bend the plate’s sides to form a dustpan shape and attach a handle using screws or strong glue.

4. Clipboard

• Usage: Attach a binder clip or clipboard hardware to transform the plate into a retro-style clipboard for lists and notes.

5. Wind Chimes

• DIY Steps: Drill holes in the bottom and hang small metal objects like spoons or glass to create a decorative and musical outdoor piece.

6. Fridge Magnets

• Process: Cut the license plate into small sections (letters or numbers), attach magnets to the back, and sand edges to avoid sharpness.

7. Key Holder

• How-To: Drill hooks into the plate and mount it near the door for easy access to keys.

8. Pencil Cup

• Steps: Bend the plate around a wooden base to form a cylindrical shape and secure with nails or glue.

9. Planter

• DIY: Bend the plate around a wooden circle, drill a drainage hole, and secure it to form a small hanging or table planter.

10. License Plate Box

• Advanced Crafting: Use plates for the sides of a box. Secure them with screws or bolts to create a unique container.

Selling to Collectors

1. Identify Value

• Collectors Clubs: Contact organizations like the Automobile License Plate Collectors Association (ALPCA) or Europlate.
• Condition Grading: Use a grading guide to assess the plate’s value.

2. Online Platforms

• Sell through platforms like eBay, Craigslist, or dedicated license plate collector forums.

Recycling Your Plates

1. Scrap Metal Recycling

• Preparation: Scratch or bend the plate to ensure it can’t be reused.
• Drop-off: Take the plate to a local scrap metal recycling center.

2. Motor Vehicle Departments

• Some DMV offices accept old plates for recycling. Check your local office’s policies online or call to confirm.

3. Curbside Recycling

• Check Eligibility: Some programs accept plates in regular recycling. Verify with your local service.

Tips and Warnings

• Legal Compliance: Always check local laws to ensure old plates don’t need to be turned in, especially for government or specialty plates.
• Safety: Sand sharp edges of cut plates to prevent injury when crafting.
• Environmental Impact: Recycling plates responsibly prevents waste and supports eco-friendly practices.

Repurposing old license plates is a fun way to declutter while creating unique crafts or making some extra cash. Choose the method that best suits your style and needs!