Again, it must be noted that DMV/title procedures vary widely and wildly in the various states.
So do the regulations regarding license plates!
For instance, here in Montana the title is sent to the registered owner. the lien holder does NOT get the title.
Also, here in Montana the license plates belong to the registered owner. They do not stay on the vehicle when it is sold. It is the SELLERS responsibility to remove HIS plates before the vehicle leaves his premises. When the owner buys a new vehicle, he can put his old plates on it AFTER he has been to DMV and had it transferred and registered.
There are over 100 different "specialty" plates available, not including personal "vanity" plates.
My point is, for anybody to say "THIS is how it is!" is just foolish. The rules, regulations, and laws vary so much that it is a safe bet that SOMEBODY will jump in and say "NO, it isn't, it is THAT way!"
and, they are right!