How to Get a Specialty License Plate in California

California's Department of Motor Vehicles offers its drivers the opportunity to showcase their interests, or support a cause, occupation or achievement on its license plates. Why not join in on the fun? With environmental, arts, collegiate, military and more to choose from, there is a specialty license plate for everyone. Read on to learn how to get a specialty license plate in California.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Log on to California's Department of Motor Vehicles website.

2. Click on "Vehicle Registration" and "Plates."

3. Select "California Special Interest License Plates."

4. Review the different specialty plates that are available for purchase. Note vehicle type restrictions, eligibility requirements, fees and personalization options. Click on the link of the sponsoring organization to view more details on the license plate and what your fees will fund.

5. Download an application for a specialty license plate by clicking on "Special Interest License Plate Application." This application is numbered "REG 17." Print the application.

6. Check "original" on the form.

7. Write your name and address in Section One.

8. Choose your specialty plate in Section Two. Indicate whether you would like to personalize your plate or not. Mark "DMV Office" or "Auto Club" and provide specific locations if you intend to retrieve your specialty license plate from either location.

9. Read over the rules regarding the personalization of specialty license plates.

10. Provide your choices for personalized messages on your specialty license plates, if desired. Refer to California's Department of Motor Vehicles website if you are unsure of the number of characters allowed on your particular specialty plate. Include the meanings of your messages under your written choices.

11. Skip to Section Six. Sign and date your application. Provide your daytime phone number.

12. Total your fees. Make a check payable to the DMV.

13. Mail your application, check and copies of eligibility documentation to DMV, P.O. Box 932345, Sacramento, California, 94232-3450.

14. Receive notification by mail that your specialty license plates are available for pick up within eight to 12 weeks.

15. Visit the location you specified on your application and retrieve your specialty license plates. Switch your standard plates for your specialty license plates on your car and use.

Tips & Warnings

• The department will not honor requests for personalized license plates that have unacceptable character combinations or are deceiving or vulgar. Applications that lack explanations of the chosen personalized messages will automatically be denied.

Resources

• California Department of Motor Vehicles Website