Arizona residents have a wealth of options when it comes to expressing their interests, supporting causes, or showcasing school spirit through specialty license plates.
With a total of 101 plates available, it can be overwhelming to understand the offerings, associated costs, and rules for customization.
Driving with Purpose
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate Arizona’s diverse range of specialty license plates.
Variety of Causes and Charities
Each specialty license plate in Arizona represents a distinct cause or charity, with a portion of the purchase contributing to the chosen organization.
From supporting veterans, cancer education, and environmental issues to indigenous tribes, there’s a plate for almost every cause.
Legislative Approval Process
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) oversees the distribution of specialty plates, but their creation requires legislative approval.
A state lawmaker must propose a bill, which then needs approval from both houses of the Arizona State Legislature before being signed into law by the governor. Once approved, ADOT administers and distributes the funds generated by the sales of these plates.
Costs and Contributions
Most specialty plates can be purchased for $25 in addition to the registration fee, with $17 (68% of the purchase) typically allocated to the associated charity or cause. Personalized text on the plate can be added for an additional $25. ADOT reports that specialty plate sales contributed over $12 million to various causes and charities in the last fiscal year.
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Financial Impact of Arizona License Plates
Categories and Designs
The specialty plates fall into several categories, such as military-related plates, sports team plates, and plates supporting movements like cancer research and wildlife conservation.
Notable designs include those representing Arizona’s big-four sports teams, universities, and newly added plates like Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock and Cancer Support for Families.
Supporting Tribes and Educational Institutions
Specialty plates also represent Arizona’s Native American tribes, with portions of the purchase aiding in the acquisition of traffic control devices for tribes.
Educational institutions like Diné College on the Navajo Nation and the San Carlos and White Mountains Apache tribes also have dedicated plates.
Specific Plates for Qualified Individuals
In addition to the diverse range of specialty plates, specific plates cater to qualified individuals or vehicles, including alternative fuel plates, energy-efficient plates, disability plates, and deaf/hard of hearing plates. Physician verification is required for disability plates.
Customization and Display Rules
Personalizing plates is allowed, with up to six characters for customization. Plates must be displayed on the rear of the vehicle, with no requirement for a front display—making Arizona unique compared to 29 other states.
Display rules mandate clear legibility, secure placement, and a minimum height of 12 inches above the ground.
Replacement and Additional Considerations
If a plate is lost, stolen, or damaged, a $5 fee covers the replacement process online.
Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a charity supporter, or someone passionate about a cause, Arizona’s specialty license plates offer a diverse array of options to showcase your interests and contribute to meaningful initiatives.
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