If any number plate, tab, sticker, or registration card issued under the provisions of this chapter is lost, mutilated, or becomes illegible, the person who is entitled thereto shall make immediate application for and obtain a duplicate or substitute upon furnishing information of such fact satisfactory to the department and upon payment of the cost of issuing the duplicate     item, not to exceed the sum of five dollars for each duplicate number plate, tab, sticker, or registration card issued. The department may issue a duplicate number plate, tab, sticker, or registration card at no cost to the owner when satisfied the vehicle owner did not receive the original number plate, tab, sticker, or registration card which was issued.