How to Get Custom License Plates in Idaho

Are you looking to add a personal touch to your vehicle in the Gem State? Getting Idaho custom license plates is a straightforward way to express your personality, support a local cause, or simply make your car stand out. Whether you are interested in a personalized text combination or one of the many specialty designs available, navigating the Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requirements does not have to be complicated. This guide covers everything you need to know about the types of custom plates, the associated costs, the rules you must follow, and the step-by-step application process.

Types of Custom License Plates in Idaho

Idaho provides two primary categories of custom license plates beyond the standard scenic issue:

• Personalized Plates: These allow you to select a unique combination of letters and numbers to display on your vehicle. This custom text can be applied to the standard scenic background or certain specialty plate designs.
• Specialty Plates: Idaho offers over 40 distinct designs that support various causes, such as wildlife conservation, education, and military service. A portion of the fees from these plates often benefits the associated organization. Some specialty plates can also be personalized with custom text for an additional fee.

Understanding the Costs and Fees

When considering Idaho custom license plates, it’s essential to account for fees beyond standard vehicle registration. The standard scenic plate costs $3.75 per plate.

For personalized plates, there’s an initial $25 personalization fee, plus an annual renewal fee of $15. If you choose a specialty plate, costs vary by design, typically involving an initial fee (around $35) and an annual renewal fee (around $25), with proceeds supporting specific causes. Personalizing a specialty plate incurs both the specialty plate fees and the additional personalization fees.

Plate Type	Initial Fee	Annual Renewal Fee
Standard Scenic Plate	$3.75 (per plate)	Standard Registration
Personalized Text (Standard Background)	$25.00	$15.00
Specialty Plate (Non-Personalized)	Varies (approx. $35.00)	Varies (approx. $25.00)
Personalized Specialty Plate	Specialty Fee + $25.00	Specialty Fee + $15.00

How to Order Your Custom Plates

Ordering your Idaho custom license plates involves a few key steps, and the method you choose may depend on whether you are getting a personalized plate or a specialty design. Here’s a detailed breakdown to guide you through the process:

Step 1: Check Availability and Design Your Plate: Before anything else, if you are opting for a personalized plate, you must verify that your desired text combination is available. The Idaho DMV provides an online tool to check availability in real-time. Remember to adhere to the character limits and content restrictions mentioned earlier.

For specialty plates, you can browse the various designs and their associated causes on the Idaho Transportation Department website. This will help you choose a plate that aligns with your interests or supports a specific organization.

Step 2: Choose Your Ordering Method: Idaho offers several convenient ways to apply for custom plates:

A. Online Application (Most Personalized Plates)

For many personalized plates and some specialty designs, the quickest way to apply is online through the Idaho DMV Online Portal. This method allows you to:

1. Verify Text Availability: Confirm your personalized text is not already in use.
2. Complete Application: Fill out the necessary forms digitally.
3. Pay Fees: Submit payment for the initial personalization or specialty plate fees, along with your standard registration costs.

Note: Not all specialty plates are available for online ordering, especially those requiring specific eligibility documentation.

B. In-Person Application (All Plate Types, Required for Some Specialty Plates)

If you prefer face-to-face assistance, or if your chosen specialty plate requires additional documentation, you can apply at your local county assessor’s motor vehicle office. This is often necessary for plates such as military, disability, or certain organizational plates. When visiting, be sure to bring:

• Your current vehicle registration.
• Proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license).
• Any required documentation for specialty plate eligibility (e.g., military discharge papers, physician’s statement for disability plates).
• Payment for all applicable fees.

C. Mail-In Application (Specific Specialty Plates)

For certain specialized plates, particularly those with specific eligibility requirements, you may need to apply by mail. The Idaho Transportation Department provides downloadable PDF forms for these specific plate types (e.g., military plates, disabled veteran plates). Ensure you:

1. Download the Correct Form: Obtain the specific application form for your desired plate.
2. Complete Accurately: Fill out all sections clearly and completely.
3. Attach Documentation: Include all necessary supporting documents.
4. Include Payment: Enclose a check or money order for the correct fees.
5. Mail To: Send the complete package to the address specified on the form.

Step 3: Await Delivery: Once your application is approved and processed, your new custom license plates will be manufactured. This process typically takes approximately six weeks. The plates will then be shipped directly to your mailing address via the U.S. Postal Service. You can track the status of your order through the DMV Online Portal.

Important: While waiting for your new plates, continue to display your current plates and registration stickers. Do not place your new registration stickers on your old plates if you have ordered new ones; wait until your new custom plates arrive.

Rules and Restrictions for Personalized Plates

To ensure your personalized plate is approved, adhere to these Idaho DMV rules:

• Character Limits: Most plates allow up to seven characters (letters, numbers, or spaces). Some may have fewer.
• No Punctuation/Special Characters: Only letters, numbers, and spaces are permitted.
• Use Zero (0) instead of “O”: The letter “O” is not allowed to prevent confusion; use the number zero (0) instead.
• Tasteful Content: Submissions must be appropriate and free of offensive language in any language.
• Availability: Your desired combination must not already be in use. Check availability via the Idaho DMV online portal before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

Upgrading to Idaho custom license plates is an excellent way to customize your vehicle while potentially supporting a cause you care about. By understanding the differences between personalized and specialty plates, anticipating the associated fees, and following the state’s formatting rules, you can ensure a smooth application process. Whether you apply online or at your local DMV, your new custom plates will provide a unique identity for your vehicle for years to come.