📅 2026 Update: New Changes to North Dakota License Plates

Since the original article was published, North Dakota has introduced a new type of license plate and updated some fees and processes. The changes include the exciting addition of blackout license plates and adjustments in fees for various specialty plates. You can find more details about the earlier information further down the page.

🆕 Introducing Blackout License Plates

In 2026, North Dakota launched a blackout license plate. This plate has a solid black background with white lettering. It is available for passenger vehicles, light trucks, and motorcycles.

The annual fee for this plate is $25, in addition to any registration fees.

💵 Current Fees and Costs

The annual fee for a standard North Dakota license plate remains at $25. This is in addition to applicable registration fees. The blackout license plate also has the same annual fee.

Personalized blackout plates can be obtained for an additional $25 annual fee.

🎖️ Specialty Plates for Veterans

Veterans can apply for specific plates, such as Veterans' Number Plates and POW Plates. The initial fee for Veterans' Number Plates is $15, with an annual renewal fee of $10. POW Plates have no additional fee, but standard registration fees still apply.

📋 Steps to Obtain Plates

To obtain a standard license plate, complete the SFN 2872 Application for Certificate of Title form and submit it to the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT). For veterans' plates, different forms are required, depending on the type of plate. Always check the NDDOT for the most up-to-date forms and requirements.

📌 Key Points

  • 🖤 Blackout license plates are now available.
  • 💵 Standard and blackout plates have the same annual fee of $25.
  • 🎖️ Veterans' plates have specific fees and requirements.
  • 📋 Different forms are needed for various plate types.
  • ⏳ Processing times for personalized plates may take 8-10 weeks.

💡 Tips for Managing Your License Plates

It’s important to review your personal situation with an attorney for clarity on any legal issues related to license plates.

📝 Keep Your Information Updated

Always ensure your contact information is current with the North Dakota Department of Transportation. This is crucial for receiving renewal notices and other important updates regarding your license plates.

🚗 Understand Your Eligibility

Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for specialty plates. For example, Veterans' Number Plates are available only to those eligible for interment in the North Dakota Veterans' Cemetery.

📅 Timely Renewals

Pay attention to your vehicle's registration date for renewal deadlines. Renewals are based on when the vehicle was registered, so plan ahead to avoid late fees.

🔄 License Plate Transfers

When selling a vehicle, remember to remove your license plate before the transfer. The vehicle will be considered unlicensed until it is re-registered.

💰 Consider Personalized Plates

If you want a unique touch, personalized plates are available for an additional fee. Check the character limits and fees associated with personalization before applying.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What do I need to apply for a blackout license plate?

To apply for a blackout license plate, complete the SFN 2872 Application for Certificate of Title form and submit it to the NDDOT, along with the annual fee of $25.

📝 How long does it take to get personalized plates?

Processing times for personalized plates can take 8-10 weeks. It is advisable to plan accordingly to ensure you receive your plates on time.

🎖️ Are there any benefits for veterans regarding license plates?

Yes, veterans can apply for specialized plates, such as Veterans' Number Plates and POW Plates, often at reduced costs or with no additional fees. The eligibility varies based on specific criteria.

📅 When should I renew my license plates?

Renewal deadlines are based on the original registration date of the vehicle. Stay aware of the registration date to avoid late fees.

🔄 Can I transfer my license plate to a new vehicle?

Yes, you can transfer your license plate to a new vehicle. However, you must remove the plate from the old vehicle before the sale and re-register it for the new vehicle.

📋 What forms are needed for veterans' plates?

To obtain veterans' plates, complete the appropriate application forms specific to the type of plate, such as the SFN 51628 for Veterans' Number Plates, and submit them with the required fees.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to License Plates

Recent court rulings have addressed issues concerning license plate regulations and eligibility requirements in North Dakota. These rulings can impact how vehicle owners apply for and renew their plates.

You can browse more rulings on the news page for additional recent rulings related to this topic.

End of October 2026 Update






The state of North Dakota requires drivers to register their vehicles with the North Dakota Department of Transportation. Before you can choose a North Dakota license plate available, you must first properly register and title your vehicle and pay all the necessary fees. 

Standard North Dakota License Plates

If you decide against getting anything special for your license plate, the state of North Dakota will issue you two standardized North Dakota license plates after registering (motorcycles only receive one license plate). Typically these plates consist of a combination of five to seven letters and numbers on a standard state license background featuring blue and gold colors.

North Dakota License Plates

Personalized North Dakota License Plates

Personalized North Dakota licenses plates are made up of up to seven characters including letters, numbers, and ampersands. You choose any combination of these symbols as long as it is reasonable. The North Dakota Department of Transportation reserves the right to reject requests that it feels are offensive. In order to order personalized North Dakota license plates, you must complete Form SFN 53612, which is Personalized Plate Request form, along with a money or check for $25.

There are many other North Dakota license plates available. Some of them include the following:

• Antique motorcycle plate: Maximum 6 characters, a $100 one-time fee


• Firefighter plate: Maximum 5 characters, $15 Firefighter fee, $25 personalized plate fee


• Gold Star Plate: Maximum 5 characters, $40 yearly fee


• Organization Plate: Maximum 5 characters, $50 yearly fee


• Veteran Plate: Maximum 5 characters, $40 yearly fee