Arizona, known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, offers residents a unique way to express their interests, support causes, and showcase their pride through specialty license plates. These plates not only add a personal touch to vehicles but also contribute to various charitable organizations and state programs. In this article, we’ll explore the diverse range of specialty license plates available in Arizona, their benefits, and how you can obtain one.

Types of Specialty License Plates

Arizona's Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) offers a wide variety of specialty license plates, each catering to different interests and causes. Here are some of the popular categories:

1. Cause-Related Plates

• Support Our Troops: Proceeds from this plate support military families and veterans.
• Breast Cancer Awareness: Funds go towards breast cancer research and support services.
• Child Abuse Prevention: This plate raises awareness and funds for child abuse prevention programs.

2. Organizational Plates

• Universities: Show your allegiance to Arizona State University, the University of Arizona, or Northern Arizona University.
• Professional Sports Teams: Display your support for teams like the Arizona Cardinals or Phoenix Suns.

3. Personal Interest Plates

• Classic Car: For vehicles classified as classic cars.
• Environmental Awareness: Promote environmental conservation with this plate.
• Route 66: Celebrate the historic Route 66 with a dedicated license plate.

4. Military and Veteran Plates

• Veteran: Honor your military service with a veteran plate.
• Purple Heart Recipient: Reserved for those who have received the Purple Heart medal.

Benefits of Specialty License Plates

Specialty license plates offer several benefits beyond personal expression:

1. Supporting Causes: A portion of the fees for many specialty plates goes directly to support charitable organizations and state programs.
2. Raising Awareness: Specialty plates can help raise awareness for important causes and issues.
3. Pride and Identity: Displaying a specialty plate allows individuals to show their support for causes, organizations, and interests that matter to them.
4. Unique Aesthetic: Specialty plates add a unique and personalized look to your vehicle, setting it apart from standard plates.

How to Obtain a Specialty License Plate

Obtaining a specialty license plate in Arizona is a straightforward process. Here are the steps:

1. Choose Your Plate: Visit the Arizona MVD website to browse the available specialty plates and choose the one that best represents your interests or cause.
2. Complete the Application: Fill out the application form available on the MVD website. You can also apply in person at any MVD office.
3. Pay the Fees: Specialty plates typically come with an initial fee and an annual renewal fee. These fees vary depending on the plate and support the associated cause or organization.
4. Receive Your Plate: Once your application is processed, you’ll receive your specialty plate in the mail. You can then attach it to your vehicle.

Conclusion

Specialty license plates in Arizona offer a unique way to personalize your vehicle while supporting meaningful causes and organizations. Whether you’re showing school spirit, honoring military service, or promoting environmental conservation, there’s a specialty plate for everyone. By choosing a specialty plate, you not only make a statement but also contribute to the betterment of the community.

For more information and to view the full range of available plates, visit the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division website.