Getting an Oregon custom license plate requires an upfront custom plate fee ($100 for a standard 2-year registration), a unique combination of up to six characters, and an application through the DMV. Whether you want to apply online, by mail, or in person, here is exactly what you need to know to get your customized plate approved.
Oregon Custom License Plate Rules & Character Limits
Understanding the character limits and rules upfront saves you time and prevents DMV rejection.
- Passenger vehicles: Up to 6 characters (letters, numbers, or a combination).
- Motorcycles & Mopeds: Up to 5 characters.
- Spacing & Punctuation: Spaces count as one character each. You are allowed one hyphen (-). No other punctuation marks or special characters (@, #, !, etc.) are permitted.
- Uniqueness: Your combination must be unique. Combinations are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, and you cannot reserve a plate in advance.
The Content Review Process: The DMV evaluates combinations not just in their literal form but also in phonetic spelling, numeric substitutions (like “3” for “E”), reverse spelling, and slang interpretations. If a combination could “alarm, threaten, offend, or mislead a reasonable person” under any reading, it will be denied.
Strictly Prohibited Content:
- Offensive references to race, color, gender, ethnic heritage, or national origin.
- Impersonation of a public agency (e.g., POLICE, FBI).
- References to illegal acts.
- References to alcoholic beverages or controlled substances (Note: This restriction applies even if you choose the Wine Country background plate).
How to Apply for Your Personalized Oregon Plate
Step 1: Check Availability: Verify your desired combination is available using the DMV2U portal (oregon.gov/odot/DMV). Because plates are issued first-come, first-served, have 2–3 backup combinations ready.
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
- Option A – Online via DMV2U (Recommended): Log in, locate your vehicle, and select “Replace Your License Plate.” Follow the prompts to choose your background, enter your text, and pay.
- Option B – By Mail: Download and complete Form 735-205 (Custom Plate Application). Mail it with a check or money order to: DMV Services, 1905 Lana Ave NE, Salem, OR 97314.
- Option C – In Person: Book an appointment at your local DMV office. Bring your completed Form 735-205, proof of vehicle ownership, and payment.
Step 3: List a Second Choice: Always provide an alternate choice on your application. If your first choice is denied, your application will proceed with the backup, saving you weeks of processing time.
Step 4: Await Manufacturing & Delivery: If approved, your plate is sent to manufacturing. Expect a processing time of 6–10 weeks, though times can fluctuate depending on DMV volume. Your plate will be mailed to you or held for pickup depending on your application method.
How Much Do Oregon Custom Plates Cost?
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Custom plate fee (initial + each renewal) | $50 per year of the registration period |
| Registration fee | Varies by vehicle type |
| Special background surcharge | Varies by plate design |
Note: This custom fee is in addition to your standard registration fees and any specialty background surcharges.
Available Specialty Plate Backgrounds
Oregon offers several specialty plate backgrounds. Most scenic backgrounds carry an additional surcharge on top of the custom plate fee. Options include:
- Crater Lake – Featuring Oregon’s iconic deep-blue volcanic lake.
- Standard Tree – Celebrating Oregon’s natural heritage.
- Gray Whale / Pacific Wonderland – Oregon’s coastal and historic themed designs.
- Wine Country – A nod to Oregon’s Willamette Valley (text still cannot reference alcohol).
- Standard Oregon – The classic tree design (no extra surcharge).
Important Motorcycle Rule: Motorcycles and mopeds are not eligible for special scenic backgrounds; they will receive the standard yellow Oregon plate.
Managing Your Oregon Vanity Plate
- Renewals: The custom plate fee is charged at every vehicle registration renewal. If your registration lapses for more than 180 days, you lose the plate combination and it becomes available to the public.
- Selling Your Vehicle: If you want to keep your custom combination when selling your car, you must remove the plates beforehand. You can transfer them to another vehicle titled in your name by submitting a transfer application and fee.
- Lost or Stolen Plates: Contact the Oregon DMV immediately to report lost/stolen plates and request a replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The dealership can submit the custom plate application as part of your title and registration paperwork.
The DMV will notify you. If you listed a second choice on your form, they will attempt to process that one instead. Otherwise, you will need to submit a new application.
Yes. Oregon’s Administrative Rules (OAR 735-046-0040) outline a review process. Contact the Oregon DMV Customer Assistance line at (503) 945-5000 for guidance on challenging a denial.
Conclusion:
Getting an Oregon custom license plate is a straightforward process once you know the rules. Start by checking availability on DMV2U, prepare a backup combination, and apply online for the fastest turnaround. With processing times of 6–10 weeks, plan ahead—and remember, your $50 annual fee is going toward a good cause: keeping Oregon’s passenger rail running.
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