Personalized License Plates in Louisiana
What Are Personalized License Plates In Louisiana?
Personalized license plates in Louisiana allow vehicle owners to customize their vehicle registration plates with unique letter and number combinations. These plates provide an opportunity for individuals to express personal interests, affiliations, or creativity through their vehicle's identification. Personalized plates are subject to approval by the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) to ensure compliance with state regulations.
Are Personalized License Plate Legal In Louisiana?
Yes, personalized license plates are legal in Louisiana. The Louisiana OMV oversees the issuance of these plates, ensuring that all personalized combinations adhere to state guidelines. Vehicle owners must apply for personalized plates through the OMV, and all requests are subject to review and approval to ensure they meet the legal and regulatory standards set forth by the state.
How Can I Get a Personalized License Plate In Louisiana?
To obtain a personalized license plate in Louisiana, vehicle owners must follow these steps:
- Eligibility Check: Ensure that the vehicle is registered in Louisiana and that the owner has a valid Louisiana driver's license.
- Application Submission: Complete the Application for Personalized License Plate (Form DPSMV 1799). This form can be obtained from the OMV website or any local OMV office.
- Plate Selection: Choose a desired combination of letters and numbers. The combination must be unique and comply with state guidelines.
- Fee Payment: Submit the application along with the appropriate fees to the OMV.
- Approval Process: The OMV will review the application and notify the applicant of approval or denial.
How Much Does It Cost For a Personalized License Plate In Louisiana?
The cost of obtaining a personalized license plate in Louisiana includes several components:
- Initial Fee: $25.00 for the personalization of the plate.
- Annual Renewal Fee: $25.00 in addition to the standard vehicle registration renewal fee.
- Replacement Fee: $10.00 if the plate is lost, stolen, or damaged.
These fees are subject to change, and applicants are encouraged to verify the current rates with the Louisiana OMV.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Personalized License Plate In Louisiana?
The processing time for personalized license plates in Louisiana can vary. Generally, applicants can expect the following timeline:
- Application Review: 2-4 weeks for the OMV to review and approve the application.
- Plate Production and Delivery: 4-6 weeks after approval for the plates to be manufactured and delivered to the applicant.
Applicants are advised to apply well in advance of any deadlines or events for which they wish to have the personalized plates.
What Types Of Personalized License Plates Are Available In Louisiana?
Louisiana offers a variety of personalized license plate options, including:
- Standard Personalized Plates: Custom combinations of letters and numbers.
- Specialty Plates: Plates that support specific causes, organizations, or interests, such as wildlife conservation or university affiliations.
- Military Plates: Available to veterans and active-duty military personnel, often featuring branch-specific designs.
Each type of plate may have specific eligibility requirements and additional fees.
What Is Prohibited From Being Displayed On Personalized License Plate In Louisiana?
The Louisiana OMV enforces strict guidelines on what can be displayed on personalized license plates. Prohibited content includes:
- Offensive Language: Any combination that includes profanity, vulgarity, or offensive language.
- Obscenity: Content that is considered obscene or indecent.
- Misleading Combinations: Combinations that could be confused with official government plates or emergency vehicles.
- Trademarked or Copyrighted Material: Use of protected logos or phrases without permission.
Applications containing prohibited content will be denied, and the applicant will be required to submit a new request.
Can I Sell My Personalized License Plate In Louisiana?
In Louisiana, personalized license plates are considered the property of the state and are issued to the vehicle owner for their exclusive use. As such, they cannot be sold or transferred to another individual. If a vehicle owner wishes to relinquish their personalized plate, they must return it to the OMV. The new owner of the vehicle must apply for their own personalized plate if desired.