What is the first action a dealer should take if they lose a dealer license plate?

In the event that a dealer loses a dealer license plate, the most critical first step is to notify the local police department. This action is important because a police report can help protect the dealer from any potential misuse of the lost plate, such as illegal activities or traffic violations that could be associated with it. Having a formal notification provides a legal record of the incident.

Other options, while potentially necessary later on, are secondary to ensuring that law enforcement is aware of the loss. Notifying the MVDB is important for regulatory compliance, and purchasing a new plate might eventually be required, but these steps follow the immediate need to inform the police. Contacting an insurance company is typically unrelated to the loss of a license plate in this context and does not take precedence in the immediate aftermath of losing the plate.