How to Apply for Special License Plates in Virginia: A Complete Guide
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A license plate can be more than an identification and registration marker—it can showcase your personality, interests, and history too. Virginia specialty license plates include a wide variety designs, as well as revenue-sharing plates, veteran plates, and personalized plates. Many residents don't know how to get their hands on these unique registration options, but it's not as difficult as it might seem.
Overview of Virginia's Specialty License Plates
If you don't request a specialty plate when you renew or purchase a vehicle registration, you get the standard license plate — a rather bare-bones design.
For drivers looking for some additional flair, Virginia offers plates with military insignia, fraternal order logos, charity symbols, and more. You can view all the specialty plate designs by navigating to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles website and clicking on the Search/View Specialized License Plates page.
Definition and Purpose of Specialty License Plates
A Virginia special license plate generally represents an interest group, organization, or cause. The designs typically include logos and other insignia specific to the organization or cause.
Virginia special license plates offer recognition and advocacy while providing the state and interest groups a revenue stream. A specialty license plate can be open to the public or reserved for particular individuals. For example, a military or veteran plate is usually reserved for current or former members of the armed forces. Other plates, like those for charitable causes, are often open to all members of the public and may be part of revenue-sharing initiatives.
Beyond recognition, advocacy, and profit, a specialty license plate may serve as a tool for self-expression. For example, a personalized plate is a custom license plate that allows you to choose your alpha-numeric tag. Personalized plates can have names or messages as long as they fit the plate requirements.
Types of Specialty License Plates Available
The VA DMV special plates come in many designs. The most popular options are customized plates. Personalized plate requirements allow for a seven-character combination subject to approval by the DMV. The plates cost $10 per year in addition to other registration and special plate fees.
Another specialty plate option is the military plate. You can find an option for each branch of service. To qualify for a military license plate, you must provide a copy of your DD-214 record, showing an honorable discharge and proving your veteran status.
A disabled license plate is another form of specialty plate reserved for people with specific medical conditions. It provides parking privileges and can improve the daily lives of plate holders.
These are just some of the most popular types of specialty license plates, and the state's DMV website offers examples of many others.
Eligibility Requirements for Specialty License Plates
The eligibility requirements for Virginia special license plates vary depending on the type. For example, business logo plates require a business to have at least 100 registered vehicles in the states. The company must also allow the DMV to use the logo.
Military plates require proof of a military record or marriage to someone who served or is currently serving. Spouses might only be eligible for specific plates or under particular circumstances.
Any vehicle owner is eligible for a personalized license plate. They must be willing to pay any applicable fees and make changes based on the availability of their design.
Finally, vehicle owners must show proof of insurance to qualify for any of the special license plates, so be sure to find the best cheap car insurance in VA to meet the state's minimum requirements.
How to Apply for a Specialty License Plate
You can apply in person or online for Virginia special plates. To apply in person, visit your local DMV customer service center and complete a license plate application form. You should check the eligibility requirements of the specialty plate you want.
If you would rather apply online, visit the Virginia DMV website, navigate to the special plates section, and choose your design. Each design you click on will provide you with the relevant application and details.
All license plate applications require several pieces of information: vehicle registration, title, state-issued license, and insurance.
Associated Fees and Processing Times
The fees and processing times for Virginia special license plates depend on the plate. According to the Virginia DMV, special plate fees can be $10, $15, or $25 annually. Some plates only require a one-time fee of $10, $25, or $50, depending on the plate design. Typically, the special plate fee is in addition to a standard license plate fee and other registration fees.
Benefits of Having Specialty License Plates
Depending on the type of specialty plate, there can be several benefits. For example, certain plates allow you to show support for a cause you admire; the plates can help you spread awareness and possibly drum up further support. Disabled veteran plates not only show support for the armed forces and recognition for your service but also provide parking privileges.
Remember, to keep your rear plate benefits, you must maintain your Virginia car insurance policy. Cancelling your required insurance can result in penalties, including fines and registration suspensions.
Shop for Car Insurance to Meet Virginia's Requirements
If you want Virginia special plates and all the benefits or privileges that come with them, check out auto insurance quotes in Virginia and make sure you and your vehicle have the minimum liability coverage required. You can speed up the search by using EverQuote, a tool for comparing various insurers in one place.