Many states offer “Year of Manufacture” (YOM) antique license plates that correspond with the model year of a classic car. YOM, Street Rod, and Other Specialty Plates So when you buy a previously-plated car you will still need to go to the DMV and change the registration to reflect your ownership. Some states permit a collector plate to be transferred with the car, but that does notmean the same for its registration. If you live in a state where the normal license plates are a riot of contrasting colors, this can be a genuine relief. They are almost always simpler looking, often a plain black on white design.
Some states also retain the stamped-metal technique for their antique plates, which is more aesthetically appropriate for older vehicles. In recognition of the fact that classic cars tend to be occasional-use vehicles and are not driven a lot on public roads, many states reduce or even waive the annual registration fees for vehicles with antique plates. However, it’s also because the states are not eager to see widespread abuse of the lower fees and taxes that are often associated with antique plates. So, why is there a restriction on how you use a classic car? In emissions-conscious areas, it can be about protecting the environment from vehicles made long before catalytic converters or modern emissions standards. This won’t be a concours-level white-glove affair, but rather an attempt to discourage people who want to skip an annual registration fee on a buy-here-pay-here rust-heap from 1998. In some jurisdictions, the condition of the car will be as important as the model year, so make sure your classic is in the best possible condition if your DMV requires an in-person inspection. If you can drive with the flow of traffic in a safe and legal fashion, you are much less likely to have an interaction with law enforcement where your tag is questioned. It should be noted, however, that there is very little evidence out there to suggest that the proper usage of collector plate cars is aggressively policed, and especially away from coastal regions. Would a “show-and-shine” at the local diner qualify? Usually. In some states, such as Virginia, you will be required to demonstrate ownership of a “normal” vehicle to the DMV at time of application.Ī few states are even more restrictive and require that you be in active transit to a collector car event. There are a few exceptions to the rules, as detailed below, but generally you will not be able to qualify for antique plates if you only own one vehicle or if you use your classic car as your daily driver. Arkansas is on the other far end as the state just redefined “antique vehicle” as a vehicle that is at least 45years old! There are also several states with “horseless carriage” plates and are restricted (approximately) to Brass Era vehicles. On one end of the spectrum, a few states allow cars as young as 20 years old to qualify. A historical motor vehicle shall not be used for general transportation but may be operated on the public roads and highways to and from a location where maintenance is performed on the vehicle.” For instance, Ohio’s law, a concise and reasonable example of such rules, states: “…any motor vehicle that is more than 25 years old and that is owned solely as a collector’s item and for participation in club activities, exhibitions, tours, parades, and similar uses. The first is the age of the car, and the second is how you intend to use it. In most states, there are two primary criteria for antique or collector plate eligibility. However, the rewards are often worth the effort, ranging from having a plate that matches the period for your classic car to being exempt from registration and license fees. When it comes to vehicle registration, and antique/classic plates in particular, almost no two states are exactly alike. Are they just for looks? Do they cost extra? Do they impose restrictions on how and where you drive the car? Are they worth the time and effort? If you’re new to classic car ownership, chances are you’re a bit befuddled by classic or antique license plates. How to Get Antique License Plates For Your Classic Car and Their Requirements