📅 2026 Update: Key Changes in Custom License Plates

Since the original article was published, several updates have occurred regarding custom license plates in various U.S. states. Changes include new designs, updated fees, and improved application processes. The earlier article continues further down this page, providing foundational information about custom license plates.

🆕 🗺️ Recent Changes in License Plate Designs

California introduced new specialty license plate designs in 2025, showcasing state landmarks. This change allows drivers to express their appreciation for California's history and culture through their plates.

💳 💲 Current Fees and Costs

New Jersey updated the design of standard license plates in 2024, adding a holographic security feature. This enhancement aims to improve plate security and reduce fraud.

📄 ✍️ Forms and Steps for Application

Missouri launched a new online application system for personalized license plates in 2025. This system simplifies the application process, making it easier for residents to obtain custom plates without unnecessary delays.

⏳ ⏱️ Processing Times

For New Jersey, personalized plates now typically arrive within 4 to 6 weeks after approval. This change offers clarity to applicants about when they can expect their new plates.

📌 Summary of Key Points

  • California: New specialty designs featuring landmarks.
  • New Jersey: Holographic security feature added to standard plates.
  • Missouri: Online application for personalized plates launched.
  • Processing time for personalized plates in New Jersey is now about 4 to 6 weeks.

💡 Tips for Custom License Plates

Review the details of your situation with an attorney for guidance on custom license plates.

📋 📝 Know Your State's Requirements

Before applying for a custom plate, check your state’s specific eligibility rules. Many states require valid vehicle registration and a current driver’s license.

💵 💰 Understand the Fees

Be aware of the costs associated with custom plates. For instance, California charges an initial fee for specialty plates, while New Jersey has a one-time fee for personalized plates.

⏲️ 📆 Plan for Processing Times

Processing times can vary by state. For example, New Jersey personalized plates typically arrive within 4 to 6 weeks after approval, so plan accordingly.

🗂️ 📑 Complete Required Forms

Make sure to fill out the correct forms when applying. Each state has its own specific application, so double-check that you have the right one to avoid delays.

💻 🖥️ Use Online Resources

Take advantage of online resources provided by your state’s DMV or Motor Vehicle Commission. They often have helpful information and customer service options to assist with your application.

🏆 Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section lists services related to custom license plates and vehicle registration, based on Trustpilot data from October 2026. These services vary in offerings and user satisfaction. Trustpilot scores can change, and it's essential to consider that unhappy customers may leave more reviews, affecting overall ratings.

🥇 1. Greenlight Titles

Greenlight Titles has been rated 4.7. It is known for nationwide car title and registration services, including personalized support and fast processing. However, some customers have noted occasional communication delays.

🥈 2. Vitu Interstate

Vitu Interstate holds a Trustpilot score of 4.6. This service is recognized for its 50-state title and registration software. It provides accurate fee estimates and pre-populated state forms, but some users report a learning curve with the software interface.

🥉 3. eTags

eTags has an average score of 4.5. It is known for online vehicle registration and title services as a DMV delegated provider. Some users have experienced delays in processing times, which is something to keep in mind.

4️⃣ Roxo Translations

Roxo Translations has received a perfect score of 5.0. It is known for certified translation services, accepted by various institutions including USCIS and DMVs. Customers appreciate the 100% online process, although some have concerns about turnaround times during peak periods.

5️⃣ Placatemporal

Placatemporal averages a score of 4.9. It is known for providing temporary license plates for all 50 states, with options for instant email delivery or physical shipping. Some users mention that the pricing may be higher compared to traditional methods.

🆓 Free Government Help

Each state offers free resources for those applying for custom license plates. For example, the DMV in California provides online resources and customer service assistance, while New Jersey's Motor Vehicle Commission also offers similar services.

🔎 What to Compare When Choosing a Service

  • 🔍 Trustpilot ratings and review counts.
  • 📝 Range of services related to vehicle registration and plates.
  • ⏳ Processing times for applications.
  • 💵 Fees associated with different types of plates.
  • 📞 Customer service availability and responsiveness.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ 🚗 What types of custom plates are available?

Many states offer specialty plates that showcase various themes, including sports teams, charities, and state landmarks. Check with your local DMV for specific options.

❓ 🕒 How long does it take to receive custom plates?

Processing times vary by state. For example, personalized plates in New Jersey usually arrive within 4 to 6 weeks after approval.

❓ 💻 Can I apply for custom plates online?

Yes, many states now offer online application systems for personalized and specialty plates. Check your state’s DMV or Motor Vehicle Commission website for details.

❓ ✍️ What forms do I need to fill out?

Each state has specific forms for custom license plates. Ensure you complete the correct application for your state to avoid delays in processing.

❓ 💸 Are there additional fees for custom plates?

Yes, additional fees may apply for specialty or personalized plates. For example, California charges an initial fee for specialty designs and annual renewal fees.

❓ 🆘 Where can I find help with my application?

Most states offer online resources through their DMV or Motor Vehicle Commission. They also have customer service options for assistance with applications.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to License Plates

Recent court rulings have addressed various legal matters concerning custom license plates and their regulations. These cases can provide insight into how laws are interpreted and enforced regarding vehicle registration.

For more recent rulings, feel free to browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update






In the United States, a license plate is issued by an agency of the state government. The appearances of license plates are often chosen to contain colors, slogans, or symbols associated with the jurisdiction issuing the plate. While you can be issued standard license plates, you may also be interested in receiving custom license plates with a special design or a personalized serial number.

Custom License Plates

In each of the 50 states as well as the District of Columbia, drivers can buy extra-cost vanity plates, which are custom license plates that have a custom serial (sequence of numbers and letter). Usually, custom serials cannot not contain obscene or profane messages. However, this standard of what is unacceptable varies between jurisdictions. 

What to Know About Custom License Plates

In certain jurisdictions, vehicle owners can also pay a fee for specialty plates. With these plates, the plate serial is usually chosen by the licensing agency, but the owner chooses a plate design that is not the same as a normal license plate for that jurisdiction. For example, a student or alumnus of an area university may purchase custom license plates plate with the school's logo, or a camping enthusiast may decide to pay a fee for a plate showing a nature scene. A percentage of the extra cost of these license plates usually goes to a school or non-profit organization as a donation. 

Usually, specialty plates can be purchased without any proof of any particular affiliation or status, with the exception being plates that indicate membership or the ability to use in an emergency like an EMT, amateur radio operator, firefighter or a police officer. 

Other custom license plates can indicate certain accomplishments or backgrounds of the driver. For example, a veteran who was a Purple Heart recipient or a prisoner of war may obtain a Purple Heart or POW custom license plate after presenting the necessary documentation of his or her status. Because custom license plates are government issued, under the First Amendment they must be issued as a type to any organization or group that qualifies under equal terms as any other organization to be issued a type of custom license plate. 

How to Get Custom License Plates

You can get custom license plates from your local Department of Motor Vehicles. To order custom license plates, your DMV will explain what exactly is allowed in custom license plates in that state. Most states will charge an initial fee as well as an annual fee to have custom license plates. Each DMV has specific forms or ways to sign up for vanity plates. For example, to get custom license plates in New York City, you can search online or call a number to do a license plate search and then order one with a credit card. In California, you can order custom license plates online with a credit card or use a request form along with a money order or a check.

Doing a License Plate Search

Although many sites may advertise their license plate search services, the best way to conduct a license plate search is by going through your local Department of Motor Vehicles. DMVs will not only provide a license plate search services to help you look through custom license plates and custom serials, but they will also help you determine if you eligible to receive custom license plates. Many DMVs provide both online search functions as well as phone numbers that you can call to see if the serial you want is available.

For example, in the state of New York, you can only receive custom license plates if you have a valid registration of a vehicle in New York State. You cannot purchase customized license plates if your registration expires with 60 days of the date or the mailing address of your DMV registration record is not the same as your current mailing address. IF you meet these qualifications, you must then have certain information ready, such as your current license plate number and your registration class code. You must then provide the specifications of your plates. If you are using a custom serial, you must explain what the serial means. You can then pay the DMV with your credit card to purchase your custom plates, which will arrive in the mail.

Returning Custom License Plates

Most states do not require you to surrender your custom license plates if you move out of the state. However, there are some that will ask you to surrender them. If your DMV asks you to surrender your plates, you will usually be able to send them to a provided address without a charge. Some states will also let you surrender your custom license plate if you release interest in your vanity plate in order to switch back to a standard license plate.

Custom License Plate Frames

Another way to personalize your car without getting customized license plates from your DMV is by purchasing a license plate frame. License plate frames as well as license plate holders can be purchased from third party venders. There are many designs for license plate frames, so they are a good way to express yourself with your car. For example, you can designer frames that can be made of different materials. If you are a fan of a particular sports team, you can buy license plate frames to represent that as well. There are also license plate frames with car logo designs. If you wish to show association to an organization, you may be able to find a license plate frame for it. There are license plate frames for countries, military service, sororities and frats, religious affiliation, scenic pictures, funny sayings, and more.