In the state of Vermont, your license plate is more than just a registration requirement—it is a cultural statement. From the iconic white-on-green design to the resilient “Vermont Strong” commemorative plates, the Green Mountain State offers some of the most unique personalization options in the country. Whether you are looking to support local wildlife through a Conservation plate or express your personality with a custom message, navigating the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires an understanding of specific rules, fees, and the state’s unique legal landscape.
Step-by-Step Process to Get a Vermont Vanity Plate
The process for obtaining a vanity plate in Vermont is straightforward but requires attention to detail to avoid delays.
- Digital Availability Check: Before filling out any paperwork, visit the MyDMV website and use the “Check Personalized Plate Availability” tool. This real-time database will tell you if your desired combination is already taken.
- Complete Form VD-017: Download the Vanity Plate Application (VD-017). You will need to provide your current registration information and up to three choices for your personalized text.
- Calculate and Submit Fees: Ensure your check or money order includes both the vanity fee and any applicable specialty plate fees. Mail the completed form to:
Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles
120 State Street
Montpelier, VT 05603-0001
- Wait for Manufacturing: Standard vanity plates typically arrive within 30 days. Specialty plates may take longer depending on production cycles.
Vermont Vanity Plate Fees Explained
Securing a vanity plate in Vermont involves an annual fee that is paid in addition to your standard vehicle registration. While a standard pleasure car registration costs approximately $76 per year, adding a personalized touch increases this investment.
| Plate Type | Annual Fee (In Addition to Registration) | Primary Purpose |
| Standard Vanity Plate | $58.00 | Personalized text on a standard green background. |
| Conservation Plate | $32.00 | Supports the Fish & Wildlife Department (Loon or Deer). |
| Building Bright Futures | $29.00 | Funds early childhood education programs. |
| Safety/Service Org | $21.00 (One-time) | Recognition for Firefighters, EMS, and Veterans. |
| Replacement Plate | $15.00 (Single) / $29.00 (Set) | Fee for lost or damaged plates. |
Pro Tip: Unlike many states that charge a one-time fee for personalization, Vermont’s vanity fee is an annual recurring cost. If you choose a specialty background and vanity text, you may be responsible for both sets of fees.
Unique Vermont Plate Rules You Should Know
Vermont is strictly a two-plate state, requiring both front and rear identification. However, Act 71 created a rare legal exception that has become a hallmark of Vermont roads. Residents are permitted to display a “Vermont Strong” commemorative plate on the front of their vehicle, even if it covers the official registration plate.
Originally issued following Tropical Storm Irene in 2011 and re-issued after the devastating 2023 floods, these plates are a symbol of state solidarity. They are the only non-official plates legally allowed to be displayed on the front of a vehicle in Vermont, provided the official rear plate remains clearly visible.
Character Rules for Vermont Personalized Plates
Vermont is known for its commitment to free speech, but the DMV maintains strict technical and content guidelines under 23 V.S.A. § 511.
- The “Zero vs. O” Distinction: On all Vermont license plates, the character “0” is always a number (digit zero). To prevent confusion for law enforcement and automated systems, the letter “O” is generally not used in a way that could be mistaken for a zero. If you are designing a plate like “LOVED,” ensure you are using the correct character set in the MyDMV portal.
- Character Limits by Plate Type:
- Standard Pleasure Cars: Up to 7 characters (including spaces).
- Conservation Plates: Typically limited to 5 or 6 characters because the graphic (the Loon or Deer) occupies a significant portion of the plate’s real estate.
- Motorcycles: Restricted to 6 characters.
- Content and the ACLU Ruling: Following a 2020 lawsuit by the ACLU of Vermont, the DMV has adjusted its censorship policies. While profanity, ethnic slurs, and references to illegal acts remain prohibited, the state can no longer reject plates simply for being “offensive” if they do not violate specific, narrowly defined standards. This has opened the door for more political and social expressions, provided they remain within the bounds of public safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. You can transfer your vanity plate to a new vehicle by submitting a transfer application and paying a nominal transfer fee (typically $25). The vanity status remains with the owner, not the vehicle.
Technically, no. It is a commemorative plate. While you cannot choose the text on a Vermont Strong plate, you can display it on the front of your car as a legal alternative to a standard front plate.
If your choice is rejected due to content rules or availability, the DMV will notify you by mail. You will have the opportunity to select a different combination or receive a refund of the vanity fee.
Conclusion
Personalizing your vehicle in Vermont is a rewarding way to support state initiatives and express your identity. By understanding the annual fee structure, respecting the technical limits of your chosen plate type, and utilizing the legal flexibility of the “Vermont Strong” front plate, you can ensure your vehicle stands out on the winding roads of the Green Mountain State. Whether you are a local or a newcomer, the key to a successful application is starting with a digital availability check and following the structured VD-017 submission process.
Add Comment