Colorado License Plate Types and Availability

Colorado offers a diverse range of license plates to meet different needs, from standard issue plates to those that express individuality, honor military service, or support causes. Understanding the types available and the requirements for each helps drivers ensure they stay compliant with state laws and take advantage of plate options that suit their preferences.

Standard License Plates

The standard Colorado license plate features a green mountain design, symbolizing the state's Rocky Mountain landscape. This plate is issued to most passenger vehicles upon initial registration and at renewal unless a specialty plate is requested.

Personalized Plates

Colorado residents can personalize most plate types with a custom configuration of letters and numbers. These plates can be requested through the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) either online or in person. Personalized plates must adhere to state guidelines, including restrictions on offensive or misleading content.

To request a personalized plate, visit the Colorado DMV's official plate personalization portal.

Group Special License Plates

Group Special plates represent colleges, organizations, and causes. Eligibility for these plates may require proof of membership or a donation. Examples include:

• University alumni associations
• Non-profit groups
• Environmental advocacy

A small donation to the sponsoring organization may be required annually. Availability is updated on the Colorado DMV’s Group Special Plates page.

Military and Veteran Plates

Colorado honors current service members, veterans, and medal recipients with a wide selection of military plates. These include:

• Disabled Veteran plates
• POW/MIA plates
• Branch-specific service plates (e.g., Army, Navy, Marine Corps)

Documentation such as DD214 forms or official military IDs is required for eligibility. Veterans with qualifying disabilities may be eligible for registration fee exemptions.

Historic and Collector Plates

Vehicles that are at least 32 years old and meet certain conditions may qualify for Collector or Horseless Carriage plates. These vehicles are generally used for parades, shows, or occasional driving and must be insured accordingly.

More details on qualifying for a collector vehicle title and registration can be found through the Colorado DMV’s Collector Plates page.

Temporary and Dealer Plates

Temporary plates are issued when you purchase a vehicle and are valid for up to 60 days. They are usually printed by the dealership or issued at the county DMV office.

Dealerships also have specialized dealer plates for test drives and transport. These plates are regulated and monitored to ensure proper usage.

Specialty Plate Fees

Specialty and personalized plates generally carry additional fees, including:

• Initial issuance fees
• Annual renewal fees
• Donation surcharges (if applicable)

Drivers must still pay standard vehicle registration fees in addition to any specialty plate costs.

For a better understanding of how fees and fines work in Colorado's transportation system, you can read our guide on Colorado Express Lane Fines and Rules.

Applying for and Managing Plates

Plates can be ordered online through myDMV Colorado, by mail, or in person at a county motor vehicle office. Replacement plates, transfers to another vehicle, and renewals must be managed through the same channels.

For drivers needing a REAL ID to accompany their license plate services, visit our resource on How to Get a REAL ID in Colorado.

License plate options in Colorado reflect its residents’ diversity and values. From environmental support to military service, the state offers a meaningful way to customize your vehicle while complying with state law.

For more guidance on driver licensing or related topics, you might find our Driver’s License Eligibility Guide helpful.