FP stands for "Firefighter Plate" and identifies a vehicle owned by an active or retired firefighter

FP on a license plate is a designation issued by your state's motor vehicle department to recognize firefighters. The letters appear on the plate itself — usually in a specific location or color — and signal that the vehicle belongs to someone with active or retired firefighting status. Each state runs its own program, so the exact appearance and rules differ by location.

The purpose is twofold: it honors firefighters' service and, in some states, it comes with practical benefits like reduced registration fees or parking privileges. Not all states offer FP plates, and the ones that do have different may be able to access rules and process processes.

Key Takeaways

  • FP plates are issued only to active or retired firefighters and vary by state in appearance and benefits.
  • Some states charge a lower registration fee for FP plates, while others offer no fee reduction at all.
  • may be able to access typically requires proof of current or former firefighting employment, such as a letter from your fire department.
  • You request an FP plate through your state's motor vehicle department, not through your fire department.

Which states offer FP plates and what they look like

States that issue FP plates include California, Florida, Illinois, New York, Ohio, and Texas, though the complete list changes as states add or modify programs. Not every state offers them. The plate design varies: some states use a standard plate with "FP" printed on it, others use a special color scheme or emblem, and a few integrate the designation into the plate number itself.

To find out whether your state offers FP plates and what they look like, contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles directly or visit its website. You can search "[your state] firefighter license plate" to find the specific program rules and current design.

What benefits come with an FP plate

The benefits attached to FP plates depend entirely on your state. Some states reduce the annual registration fee by $10 to $25. Others waive the fee entirely for active firefighters but charge retired firefighters the standard rate. A few states offer no fee reduction but issue the plate as a recognition honor only.

Parking benefits are less common but do exist in some jurisdictions. A handful of cities allow FP plate holders to park in certain municipal lots for free or at a discount, though this is not may provide and varies by city within the same state. Check with your local fire department or city parking authority to learn what applies where you live.

How to request an FP plate

The process starts with your state's motor vehicle department, not your fire department. You will need to provide proof of firefighting status. Most states accept a letter from your fire department on official letterhead stating that you are an active or retired member, or a copy of your firefighter identification card.

Visit your state's DMV website or office and look for the section on special plates or firefighter plates. Fill out the required form, submit your proof of status, and pay any applicable fee. Processing time is usually two to four weeks. Some states allow you to request the plate online; others require you to visit an office in person or mail in your documents.

may be able to access requirements for firefighters

To get an FP plate, you must be either an active member of a paid or volunteer fire department, or a retired firefighter. Some states require a minimum length of service — often five or ten years — before retired firefighters become may be able to access. A few states limit FP plates to paid firefighters only and exclude volunteers, though this is becoming less common.

If you are unsure whether your service qualifies, contact your fire department's administrative office. They can tell you whether you meet your state's definition and can provide the letter of verification you will need for the DMV.

FP plates versus other firefighter recognitions

FP plates are different from other ways states honor firefighters. Some states issue special license plate frames or decals instead of dedicated plates. Others offer reduced registration fees without a special plate design. A few states have separate designations for volunteer firefighters, using letters like "VF" instead of "FP."

If you see a plate with different letters or a different design, it may represent a neighboring state's program or a different category of first responder — such as police (often "PO" or "LE" for law enforcement) or emergency medical technicians. The exact system depends on which state issued the plate.

Renewing and replacing an FP plate

FP plates renew on the same schedule as regular plates in your state, usually every one to four years depending on your state's renewal cycle. You renew through the DMV by mail, online, or in person, the same way you would for a standard plate. The fee structure remains the same — if your state discounts FP plate registration, the discount applies at renewal.

If your FP plate is damaged, lost, or stolen, contact your DMV to request a replacement. You will pay a replacement fee, which varies by state but is usually $10 to $20. You do not need to re-verify your firefighter status unless your state's rules have changed or your may be able to access has ended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I lose my FP plate if I retire from the fire department?

That depends on your state. Some states allow retired firefighters to keep FP plates for life at no cost or at a reduced rate. Others require active firefighters only and ask you to return or replace the plate when you retire. Check your state's specific rules or contact your DMV to learn what happens to your plate status after retirement.

Can I transfer my FP plate to a different vehicle?

Yes, in most states. You can request a transfer through your DMV, usually by filling out a form and paying a small fee (often $5 to $15). The process is similar to transferring any specialty plate. Some states allow online transfers; others require you to visit an office or mail in documents.

What if my state doesn't offer FP plates?

If your state does not have an FP plate program, you cannot get one through your DMV. However, you may be able to purchase a firefighter license plate frame or decal from a third party to display on your vehicle. Some fire departments also sell or distribute these items to members.

Are FP plates the same in every state?

No. Each state designs its own FP plate, sets its own may be able to access rules, and decides what benefits come with it. A plate issued in California will look different from one issued in Texas, and the fee structure and parking privileges will differ as well.