(a) In case of the loss of a number plate, the owner of the motor vehicle to which it was assigned shall immediately notify the Commissioner of such loss, and the Commissioner shall furnish such owner with a new plate. The fee charged shall be $15.00 for each plate. The owner of a motor vehicle who has lost one number plate may operate the owner’s vehicle with only one number plate attached until a new plate is furnished to the owner, provided the owner notified the Commissioner as required under this section.
(b) Any replacement number plate shall be issued at a fee of $15.00. However, if the Commissioner, in the Commissioner’s discretion, determines that a plate has become illegible as a result of deficiencies in the manufacturing process or by use of faulty materials, the replacement fee shall be waived.