• Check the ticket on your windshield.
• Pay the fine at a bank or post office.
• Visit the police to confirm payment and collect plates.
• AUTOWAY can handle it for you (extra charge) to save time.
• Never drive without plates.

Step 1: If it’s a rental car, contact AUTOWAY immediately.

If you’re renting with AUTOWAY, reach out to their support team right away. With more than 3000 reviews and decades of local experience, AUTOWAY can handle the fine and license plate retrieval process for you as an extra service. This means less waiting, fewer office visits, and more time enjoying your trip.

If you prefer, you can always handle the process yourself; just be prepared to spend more time waiting at the police station and managing the paperwork. Either way, AUTOWAY’s team will guide you through the best option for your situation and ensure your car hire insurance remains valid.

Step 2: Find out why your license plates were taken.

 If the police have removed your license plates in Crete, the first step is to check the ticket left on your windshield. It will state the reason for the violation, the authority responsible (usually the local Traffic Police Department  Τμήμα Τροχαίας or “Tmima Trohaias”), and the fine amount.

Next, visit the Traffic Police Office listed on the ticket or a nearby post office to confirm the situation. The officers will explain why your plates were removed, how long the penalty will last, and issue a payment slip so you can pay the fine right away.

Step 2: Pay your fine the easy way.

Once you have the payment slip, you can pay it at any local bank or post office. For step-by-step guidance, see how to pay police fines in Crete. Paying early can sometimes shorten the waiting period for your plates to be returned.

Step 3: Show proof of payment to the police.

After paying, bring your receipt back to the same Traffic Police Office. They’ll confirm the payment and tell you when you can collect your plates. Keeping all documents organized will help avoid unnecessary delays.

Step 4: Ask if you qualify for early return.

If you’re a tourist or driving a rental car, ask whether early release is possible. Police sometimes allow it if you show proof of travel plans, such as a flight ticket. While it depends on the officer’s discretion, it’s often worth politely asking.

Never drive without plates. (almost)

Driving without license plates in Greece is illegal and can result in additional penalties. The only exceptions are when moving the vehicle to a designated storage location. Always wait until the police officially return your plates before driving again.

Travel with confidence and choose AUTOWAY.

If something like this happens during your trip, don’t worry. AUTOWAY’s top-rated car rental team in Crete, Greece can take care of everything quickly and professionally. Whether you want to save time with their paid assistance service or handle it yourself, you’ll have full support every step of the way.

Discover more insider travel advice on the AUTOWAY Blog or book your next car rental today.

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