Do license plates issued by the Registry of Motor Vehicles automatically become the driver's property?

License plates issued by the Registry of Motor Vehicles do not automatically become the driver's property because they are considered state property. The primary purpose of these plates is to identify the vehicle and ensure that it is registered with the state for legal and regulatory purposes. While the driver may use the plates as long as they are associated with a registered vehicle, the ownership remains with the state or relevant motor vehicle authority. This means that when a vehicle is sold, or if the registration is not renewed, the plates must be returned or destroyed rather than retained by the driver as personal property.