📅 2026 Update: Key Changes to Connecticut License Plates

Since the original article was written, there have been important updates regarding Connecticut license plates and associated fees. Notably, the fees for the Passport to the Parks have increased, and a new specialty plate has been introduced. You can find the earlier article further down this page for a broader context.

🆕 Special License Plate for the Borinqueneers

On February 26, 2026, the Connecticut DMV launched a new specialty license plate. This plate honors the 65th Infantry Regiment of the U.S. Army, known as the Borinqueneers.

This initiative recognizes the contributions of this unit, which has a significant historical legacy.

💰 Increased Passport to the Parks Fee

Starting July 1, 2025, the Passport to the Parks fee rose from $15 to $24. This fee applies to non-commercial vehicles with new registrations, renewals, and plate transfers. Seniors aged 65 and older with a one-year registration renewal will now pay an additional $5 each year.

⚙️ License Plate Replacement Costs

The cost for replacing a regular license plate is now $25 for standard plates. Vanity plates also cost $25, but specific designs like Long Island Sound or flag-style veteran plates cost $15. The process for replacing damaged or lost plates remains straightforward and can often be done online if your registration is current.

🔄 License Plate Transfer Process

Transferring your license plates to another vehicle is now more accessible. There is no additional fee for this transfer, and you can apply the remaining time from your original registration to the new vehicle. This helps maintain your registration period without any loss.

📌 Summary of Key Changes

  • 🆕 New specialty plate for the Borinqueneers.
  • 💰 Passport to the Parks fee increased to $24.
  • ⚙️ License plate replacement costs are $25 for standard plates.
  • 🔄 License plate transfers have no extra fee and keep your registration time.
  • 📅 Seniors pay an added $5 for one-year registration renewals.

💡 Tips for Managing Your Connecticut License Plates

Review the details of your specific situation with an attorney to ensure you understand your options.

📝 Checking Registration Status

Always check your vehicle's registration status online. This can prevent issues when renewing or transferring plates. Keeping track of your registration helps avoid late fees.

🚓 Reporting Lost Plates

If your plates are lost or stolen, report it to your local police department immediately. Obtain a police report before proceeding to complete the lost or stolen marker plate notice. This step is crucial for protection against potential misuse.

🔄 Understanding Plate Transfers

When transferring plates to a new vehicle, ensure the new vehicle meets all registration requirements. This will help you apply the remaining time from your original registration seamlessly.

💵 Budgeting for Fees

Be aware of the current fees for registration and plate replacement. Regular plates cost $25, while vanity plates can vary. Knowing these costs upfront can help you budget accordingly.

📅 Monitoring Renewal Dates

You will receive a renewal invitation 45 days before your registration expires. Make sure to act promptly to avoid a late fee, which applies if you renew more than five days after expiration.

📞 Utilizing DMV Resources

Take advantage of the Connecticut DMV's online services. From renewing registrations to replacing damaged plates, these resources can save you time and effort.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What should I do if I lose my license plates?

If your license plates are lost, report it to your local police department and obtain a police report. Then, you need to complete the lost or stolen marker plate notice and submit it to the DMV.

📅 How far in advance will I be notified to renew my registration?

You will receive an invitation to renew your registration 45 days before the expiration date. This early notification helps you avoid late fees.

💳 How much does it cost to replace a standard license plate?

Replacing a standard license plate costs $25. If you're replacing a vanity plate, the fee may differ based on the design.

🔄 Can I transfer my plates to a vehicle I just bought?

Yes, you can transfer your plates to another vehicle without an additional fee. Ensure the new vehicle meets all registration requirements first.

⚖️ What happens if I fail to renew my registration on time?

If you renew your registration more than five days after it expires, you will incur a $10 late fee. It's important to renew promptly to avoid extra costs.

📈 Are there any new types of license plates available?

Yes, a new specialty license plate for the Borinqueneers was introduced on February 26, 2026. This plate honors the 65th Infantry Regiment of the U.S. Army.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Connecticut License Plates

There have been recent court rulings that may impact how Connecticut license plates are managed and regulated. These rulings often address issues like registration disputes and fee challenges.

For more insights into recent rulings, feel free to check out more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update






There are many different types of Connecticut license plates, from those that give special parking privileges, such as license plates for disabled drivers, to personalized vanity plates that let you to express yourself with your car. 

Personalized Connecticut License Plates

Connecticut’s Department of Motor Vehicles website currently allows you to search through passenger plates online to see if the plate you want is available. You can obtain personalized Connecticut license plates for the following types of registration: passenger, commercial, motorcycle, combination, camper trailer, and camper. The same Connecticut license plate number can be used in each of these registration types. However, you can apply only for personalized Connecticut license plates in the same registration type that your vehicle falls under.

Connecticut License Plates

For personalized plates, you can have between 1 and 6 letters, with a small dot between letters, 1 through 6 numbers, with a dot between each of the numbers, or different combinations of both letters and numbers.

In order to apply, you must fill out two copies of Form M-22, the Special Order Plate Application, for your vehicle that is currently registered in Connecticut. If you are using the standard background, you must pay a $90 fee with your application. Special plate backgrounds cost $135. There may be additional fees depending on the plate you choose. Once you fill out the application you can mail it to the DMV Special plate unit, whose address is found on the form.