Colorado offers a diverse range of specialty license plates that reflect the state's vibrant culture, support various causes, and allow residents to showcase their interests and affiliations. Whether you're passionate about wildlife conservation, support higher education, or want to display your military service, there's likely a specialty plate that aligns with your values and interests. This article will guide you through the types of specialty plates available, the process for obtaining them, and the associated costs.

Types of Specialty License Plates

1. Military and Veteran Plates Colorado honors its veterans and active military personnel with a variety of license plates. These include plates for specific branches of the military, such as Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard, as well as plates recognizing service in conflicts like Vietnam, Korea, and World War II. Additional options include Purple Heart recipients and Gold Star families.

2. College and University Plates Show your pride for your alma mater with college and university plates. Many of Colorado’s institutions of higher education, including the University of Colorado, Colorado State University, and the Colorado School of Mines, offer specialty plates that feature their logos and colors.

3. Cause Plates Support a cause you care about with a specialty plate. Options include plates for breast cancer awareness, organ and tissue donation, and the Colorado State Parks. These plates often come with an additional fee that goes towards funding the associated cause or organization.

4. Personalized Plates If you want to add a personal touch to your vehicle, consider a personalized license plate. You can customize the letters and numbers on your plate, as long as the combination is available and meets the state’s guidelines for appropriate content.

5. Group and Non-Profit Plates Various non-profit organizations and groups offer specialty plates for their members. These plates often require proof of membership or affiliation and may support the organization’s activities through additional fees.

How to Obtain Specialty License Plates

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

1. Choose Your Plate Visit the Colorado Department of Revenue’s Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website to view the available specialty plates and their requirements. Decide which plate best represents your interests or affiliations.

2. Complete the Application Download and complete the appropriate application form for the specialty plate you’ve chosen. Some plates may require additional documentation, such as proof of military service or a donation receipt.

3. Pay the Fees Specialty plates come with additional fees on top of the standard registration fees. These fees vary depending on the plate type and the organization it supports. Be prepared to make the necessary payment when you submit your application.

4. Submit Your Application Submit your completed application and payment to your local DMV office. Some specialty plates may be issued immediately, while others may need to be ordered and mailed to you.

5. Install Your Plate Once you receive your specialty plate, install it on your vehicle according to the DMV’s guidelines. Ensure that your registration and insurance information is up-to-date.

Costs Associated with Specialty License Plates

The costs for specialty license plates in Colorado vary. Here’s a breakdown of potential fees:

• Initial Fee: A one-time fee for the specialty plate, which can range from $25 to $75 or more, depending on the plate type.
• Annual Fee: Some plates require an annual renewal fee in addition to the standard registration fee. This fee often supports the associated cause or organization.
• Personalization Fee: If you choose a personalized plate, there will be an additional fee for customizing your plate number.

Conclusion

Specialty license plates in Colorado offer a unique way to express your identity, support causes you care about, and show pride in your affiliations. With a wide variety of options available, there’s a plate for almost everyone. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can easily obtain a specialty plate and make your vehicle truly one-of-a-kind.