Custom license plate fees vary by state, from about $25 to $100 per year on top of your regular registration
The cost of a custom license plate depends entirely on which state you register in. Most states charge between $25 and $100 annually for the privilege of choosing your own plate characters, and this fee stacks on top of your standard vehicle registration cost. Some states charge a one-time fee instead of an annual one. A few states offer custom plates at no extra cost, though these are rare.
The fee covers the state's administrative work: processing your character request, checking it against existing plates and offensive-language filters, manufacturing the plate itself, and mailing it to you. Because each state runs its own motor vehicle department with different systems and staffing, the price you pay depends on where you live or where you register your vehicle.
Key Takeaways
- Most states charge $25 to $100 per year for a custom plate, paid when you renew your registration.
- Some states charge a one-time fee instead of annual fees, so check your state's motor vehicle website for the exact structure.
- The fee covers processing, character approval, manufacturing, and mailing—not the plate itself, which is included in the cost.
- You can usually order a custom plate online through your state's motor vehicle department, or by mail or in person at a local office.
- Most states reject plates with profanity, slurs, or references to illegal activity, and some reject plates that misspell common words or look too similar to existing plates.
How state motor vehicle departments set their custom plate prices
States set custom plate fees based on their own budget needs and the cost of running the program. A state with a large population and high demand for custom plates might charge less per plate because the volume spreads the administrative cost across more customers. A smaller state with fewer custom plate orders might charge more to cover the same fixed costs.
Some states also offer specialty custom plates—for example, plates supporting a particular charity, university, or military branch—and these often cost more than standard custom plates. A military veteran plate or a wildlife conservation plate might cost $50 to $75 annually, while a basic custom plate in the same state costs $35. Check your state's motor vehicle website to see all the options available and their individual prices.
What happens when you order: the character approval process
When you submit a custom plate request, the state's motor vehicle department runs your character choice through a filter. The filter checks for profanity, slurs, hate speech, and references to illegal drugs or activity. It also flags plates that are too similar to existing plates—for example, if someone already has "FAST CAR," the system may reject "FAST-CAR" or "FASTCAR" to avoid confusion.
If your first choice is rejected, you can usually submit additional choices when ready. Most states allow you to request three to five alternative plates at once, so if your top choice is flagged, the system moves to your second choice without making you start over. The approval process typically takes one to two weeks, though some states process requests faster if you order online.
Once approved, the state manufactures your plate and mails it to you. This usually takes another one to three weeks. During this time, you can still drive legally on your old plate—the custom plate is not a requirement, just a replacement for your current registration plate.
Where to order and payment methods
Most states allow you to order a custom plate through their motor vehicle department website. You will need your vehicle registration number, driver's license number, and the characters you want on your plate. The online system usually shows you when ready whether your first choice is available, and lets you add backup choices before you pay.
If you prefer not to order online, you can visit a local motor vehicle office in person or mail in a form—your state's website will have the form and mailing address. Payment methods vary by state: most accept credit cards and debit cards online, and checks or money orders by mail. Some states also accept payment in person at a local office.
The fee is non-refundable once you have submitted your order and it has been approved. If you change your mind after approval but before the plate ships, contact your state's motor vehicle department when ready—some states will cancel the order and refund your fee if you catch it in time, but policies vary.
Annual renewal and when fees are due
In states that charge an annual custom plate fee, you pay it every time you renew your vehicle registration. If your registration renews in March, you will pay the custom plate fee in March along with your standard registration renewal. The fee does not increase your registration renewal cost beyond what you would normally pay—it is straightforward an additional line item on your bill.
If you move to a different state, you will need to re-register your vehicle in your new state and order a new custom plate under that state's rules and prices. Your old custom plate becomes invalid once your registration expires. Some people keep their old plates as souvenirs, but you cannot legally display them on a vehicle.
Specialty plates and vanity plate add-ons
Beyond the basic custom plate, many states offer plates that support a cause or organization. A plate supporting a state university, a wildlife conservation program, or a veterans' memorial typically costs $10 to $40 more per year than a standard custom plate. The extra money goes to the organization or program the plate supports.
Some states also let you add decorative borders, slogans, or background images to your custom plate for an additional fee. These options are usually $5 to $15 extra per year. Check your state's motor vehicle website to see what add-ons are available and whether they affect your total cost.
Common reasons custom plate requests are rejected
The most common rejection reason is profanity or offensive language. States use automated filters that catch obvious slurs and curse words, but they also employ staff who review borderline cases. A plate that looks clean at first glance—like one using numbers to replace letters in a slur—will usually be caught and rejected.
The second most common reason is that your plate is too similar to one already in use. If "MYNAME" exists, the state may reject "MY-NAME" or "MY NAME" to prevent confusion on the road or in police records. A third reason is that your plate mimics a government or official plate format, which is illegal in most states.
If your request is rejected, the state will tell you why. You can then submit a new request with different characters. There is no limit to how many times you can resubmit, though each resubmission may incur a small fee depending on your state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a custom plate if I lease my car instead of owning it?
This depends on your lease agreement and your state's rules. Some states allow lessees to order custom plates, but the lease company must be listed as the registered owner. Check your lease agreement first, then contact your state's motor vehicle department to confirm the process. You may need written permission from the leasing company.
What if someone else already has the plate I want?
The state will reject your request and tell you the plate is taken. You can then submit a new request with different characters. There is no waitlist for custom plates—if it is taken, you must choose something else.
Do I have to renew my custom plate every year, or is it permanent?
In most states, the custom plate itself is permanent—you keep the same characters as long as you own the vehicle. However, the annual fee must be paid each time you renew your registration. If you stop paying the fee, you will receive a standard plate at your next renewal.
How long does it take to get my custom plate after I order it?
Approval usually takes one to two weeks, and manufacturing and mailing take another one to three weeks. Total time is typically two to four weeks from order to delivery. Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee if you need the plate faster.
Can I transfer my custom plate to a different vehicle?
Yes, in most states you can transfer a custom plate to a different vehicle you own. You will need to update your registration with the motor vehicle department. Some states charge a small transfer fee, while others do not. Check your state's website or call your local motor vehicle office to learn the process.