What is the required action upon seizure of a license plate?

The correct action upon seizure of a license plate is to notify the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 48 hours. This requirement is in place to ensure that the state maintains accurate records and can take appropriate steps regarding the registered vehicle. By notifying the DMV, law enforcement helps facilitate the subsequent processing of the case related to the seizure and ensures compliance with regulations governing vehicle registration and licensing. This communication is crucial for tracking the status and legal implications associated with the seized license plate, impacting the owner and the vehicle itself.

Other options, while they might seem reasonable in some contexts, do not align with the established protocols for handling seized license plates. Storing the plate for a specific period or returning it to the owner without proper procedure does not fulfill the legal obligations regarding record-keeping and accountability. Additionally, disposing of it immediately would ignore the necessary administrative steps required by law, potentially leading to legal complications.