Obtaining Special and Vanity License Plates in Connecticut

Connecticut residents looking to personalize their vehicles have several license plate options beyond standard issue. The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offers both special interest plates and vanity plates that allow drivers to express personal identity, support causes, or honor affiliations.

Special Interest Plates

Special interest plates are designed to show support for organizations, professions, and causes. These include plates for military veterans, environmental organizations, college alumni, and more.

Popular Special Plate Types

Some commonly issued special plates in Connecticut include:

• Military Service Plates (e.g., U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard)
• Veteran Plates
• Collegiate Plates for alumni of Connecticut colleges
• Environmental Plates such as the Long Island Sound plate

A full list is available on the Connecticut DMV Special Plates page.

Eligibility Requirements

To obtain a special interest plate:

• You must have an active Connecticut vehicle registration.
• Specific plates (like military or veteran plates) require proof of service or eligibility.
• Vehicle must not be a commercial vehicle, except for certain plate types approved for such use.

Vanity Plates

Vanity plates allow you to customize the combination of letters and numbers on your license plate. They can contain up to seven characters, depending on the type of vehicle and plate style.

Guidelines and Restrictions

When creating a vanity plate request, the DMV requires that the combination:

• Is not offensive, vulgar, or misleading
• Is not already issued to another vehicle
• Does not conflict with standard-issue plates
• Follows specific formatting rules (e.g., no punctuation or special characters)

You can check availability and apply through the CT DMV Vanity Plate Lookup Tool.

Application Process

Whether applying for a special interest or vanity plate, follow these general steps:

1. Complete the Application Form: Use form M-22, available on the DMV website.
2. Prepare Required Documents: Proof of eligibility (e.g., military ID) if applying for certain special plates.
3. Submit Application and Payment:
   • In person at a DMV branch
   • By mail to the address listed on the form
4. Wait for Processing: Plates typically arrive by mail within several weeks.

Fees

Fees vary based on the type of plate:

• Vanity Plate Fee: $96 initial fee, plus regular registration fees
• Special Interest Plates: Range from $27 to $70, depending on the type
• Annual Renewal Fees: Some special plates incur additional renewal costs

Current fees are listed on the DMV's Plate Fee Schedule.

Transferring or Canceling Plates

Plates can be transferred to another vehicle under the same name. If you no longer wish to use a plate, you must return it to the DMV or officially cancel it online to avoid continued charges.

Related Resources

Those seeking more detailed guidance on Connecticut's vehicle regulations may also find the following resources helpful:

• Get a CT Driver's License
• CT REAL ID Requirements
• CT Speeding Laws and Penalties
• Connecticut Right-of-Way Rules Explained

These resources can support new and experienced drivers in staying compliant with Connecticut's DMV regulations.