Alabama § 32-8-32 - Prerequisite to Issuance of License Plates.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 32-8-32 — Prerequisite to Issuance of License Plates., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 32-8-32. Prerequisite to Issuance of License Plates.
(a) No motor vehicle license (or license plate) shall be issued and no motor vehicle license (or license plate) shall be transferred for use on a motor vehicle required to be titled under this chapter except on presentation by the owner to the license plate issuing official, the copy of an application for a certificate of title to such vehicle, or a certificate of title to such vehicle; provided however, this section shall not apply thereafter to the renewal of such license by such owner of such motor vehicle.
(b) No motor vehicle license or license plate shall be issued and no motor vehicle license or license plate shall be transferred for use on a motor vehicle not required to be titled under this chapter, other than a vehicle subject to registration pursuant to Section 32-6-56 or a vehicle that has been registered in this state during the current year or previous two calendar years until the license plate issuing official has physically inspected the vehicle and verified that the vehicle identification number on the vehicle is the same as the vehicle identification number on the documents required to register the vehicle; provided, however, this section shall not apply thereafter to the renewal of such license by such owner of such motor vehicle.
(c) The provisions of subsection (b) shall not apply to any utility trailer or to 1975 and subsequent year motor vehicles owned by a manufacturer or dealer and held for sale or vehicles registered under the provisions of Section 40-12-264(b) or Section 40-12-264(g).
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 32-8-32
What does Code of Alabama § 32-8-32 cover?
Section 32-8-32 ("Prerequisite to Issuance of License Plates.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 32-8-32?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 32-8-32" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 32-8-32 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.