Department of Motor Vehicles may assign new identifying numbers; special plate or number affixed to vehicle

The Department of Motor Vehicles may assign a distinguishing number to a motor vehicle whenever the motor or serial number thereon is destroyed, replaced or obliterated and may issue or assign to the owner a special plate or number which shall be affixed to the vehicle or stamped on the vehicle in a place to be determined by the Department. Such motor vehicle shall be registered and licensed under such distinguishing number in lieu of the former motor number or serial number.