Kansas offers residents the unique opportunity to express their individuality through personalized license plates. These custom plates allow vehicle owners to display a combination of letters, numbers, and spaces, making their vehicle truly their own. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the requirements, application process, costs, and design options for obtaining a personalized license plate in Kansas, ensuring a smooth and informed experience for all applicants.
Who Qualifies for Personalized License Plates in Kansas?
To qualify for a personalized license plate in Kansas, applicants must meet specific criteria. The primary requirement is that the applicant must be a Kansas resident or a member of the military stationed in Kansas. The vehicle for which the personalized plate is being requested must also have a Kansas title registered in the applicant’s name or the leasing company’s name.
Personalized plates are available for various vehicle types, including passenger vehicles, motorcycles, and trucks with a gross weight of 20,000 pounds or less. The character limits vary depending on the vehicle type, as detailed in the table below:
| Vehicle Type | Maximum Characters |
| Autos and Trucks (≤ 20,000 lbs) | 7 characters (letters, numbers, or spaces) |
| Motorcycles | 5 characters (letters, numbers, or spaces) |
| Disabled Personalized Plates | 5 characters (letters, numbers, or spaces) |
It is important to note that no symbols are permitted on personalized plates. Furthermore, combinations deemed profane, vulgar, lewd, or indecent by the Director of Vehicles will not be allowed.
How to Apply for a Personalized License Plate in Kansas
Step 1 – Check Personalized Plate Availability Online: The Kansas Department of Revenue provides an online Personalized Plate Availability tool where applicants can verify if their chosen combination of characters is unique and available. This step is crucial as Kansas law requires each personalized plate to be unique within the state.
Step 2 – Complete Form TR-715: Once a suitable combination is identified, applicants can complete the Personalized Plate Application form TR-715 . While completing this form beforehand is not strictly required, it can expedite the process at the county treasurer’s office. The application, along with the correct fees, must be submitted in person at the applicant’s local County Treasurer’s motor vehicle office. For new residents, it may be helpful to understand the process of transferring an out-of-state license to Kansas before proceeding with vehicle registration and personalized plates.
Step 3 – Submit Application at County Treasurer’s Office: After submission, applicants should allow approximately 30 days for the new personalized plate to arrive . During this waiting period, if a temporary tag is needed, information on temporary tags in Kansas can be found. The state has transitioned to digital license plate printing, meaning plates are now ordered and delivered consecutively, and preordering is no longer required in the current series.
Kansas Personalized License Plate Renewal Cycle
Obtaining a personalized license plate in Kansas involves a specific fee structure. The personalized plate fee is $45.50, which is an additional charge to the standard vehicle registration fees, property taxes, and service fees. This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with the custom plate. For those interested in specialized designs, such as the Blackout plate, additional fees apply. For instance, a Blackout plate incurs a $50 plate fee and a $40 special/distinctive plate fee, alongside the standard registration costs.
Personalized plates in Kansas are issued on a five-year cycle, with the cycle beginning in a year that ends with either a zero (0) or a five (5). This means that the personalized plate fee is typically paid at the first purchase and then every five years thereafter, aligning with the renewal cycle .
Design Options for Kansas Personalized License Plates
The standard background for Kansas personalized license plates features the Ad Astra design, which serves as the primary visual for all Kansas license plates. However, the state also offers various specialty plates, many of which can also be personalized. Examples include university-themed plates, such as K-State plates, and the popular Blackout plate, each with its own specific fees and design elements. These options allow for further customization beyond the standard personalized plate, catering to diverse interests and affiliations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
After submitting your application, you should allow approximately 30 days for your new personalized plate to arrive.
Yes, the Kansas Department of Revenue provides an online Personalized Plate Availability tool to check if your chosen combination of characters is unique and available.
For autos and trucks, you can have up to seven characters. Motorcycles and disabled personalized plates are limited to five characters.
Yes, no symbols are allowed. Additionally, combinations deemed profane, vulgar, lewd, or indecent by the Director of Vehicles will not be permitted.
Conclusion
Obtaining a personalized license plate in Kansas is a straightforward process that allows vehicle owners to add a personal touch to their vehicles. By understanding the eligibility requirements, fee structure, and application steps outlined in this guide, Kansas residents can confidently navigate the process. Remember to check plate availability, complete the necessary forms, and submit your application at your local County Treasurer’s motor vehicle office. The ability to express individuality through a personalized plate, whether a standard design or a specialty option, enhances the driving experience and contributes to the unique character of Kansas roadways.
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