Vehicle registration plates of Pennsylvania

Last updated
Pennsylvania
Current series
SloganvisitPA.com
Size12 in × 6 in
30 cm × 15 cm
MaterialAluminum
Serial formatABC-1234
Introduced2004 (2004); latest revision June 2017 (2017-06)
Availability
Issued by Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Driver & Vehicle Services
History
First issuedJanuary 1, 1906 (1906-01-01)
(pre-state plates from 1903 through December 31, 1905)

The U.S. state of Pennsylvania first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1903. Registrants provided their own license plates for display until 1906, when the state began to issue plates. [1]

Contents

As of 2022, plates are issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) through its Driver & Vehicle Services division. Only rear plates have been required on standard passenger vehicles since 1952. Most other classes of vehicle also only require rear plates, while front plates are additionally required on passenger vehicles owned by the state, and on vehicles owned by press photographers. [2]

Passenger baseplates

1906 to 1958

In 1956, the United States, Canada, and Mexico came to an agreement with the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, the Automobile Manufacturers Association and the National Safety Council that standardized the size for license plates for vehicles (except those for motorcycles) at 6 inches (15 cm) in height by 12 inches (30 cm) in width, with standardized mounting holes. [3] The 1955 (dated 1956) issue was the first Pennsylvania license plate that complied with these standards.[ citation needed ]

No slogans were used on passenger plates during the period covered by this subsection.

ImageDates issuedDesignSerial formatSerials issuedNotes
1906 Pennsylvania license plate 11961.jpg 1906White on blue porcelain; "PENNA 1906" at top or at right (see Notes)123451 to approximately 14000Plates with serials 1 through 99 had the state abbreviation and year at the right. This practice continued through 1909. [1]
1907 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1907White on red porcelain; "PENNA 1907" at top or at right123451 to approximately 20000
1908 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1908Black on yellow porcelain; "PENNA 1908" at top or at right123451 to approximately 25500
1909 Pennsylvanian license plate.jpg 1909Black on white porcelain; "PENNA 1909" at top or at right123451 to approximately 34500
1910 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1910White on black porcelain; "PENNA", aluminum keystone and "1910" at left123451 to approximately 33500
1911 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1911Black on yellow porcelain; "PENNA", aluminum keystone and "1911" at left123451 to approximately 44000
1912 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1912White on woodgrain-colored porcelain; "PENNA", aluminum keystone and "1912" at left123451 to approximately 60000
1913 PA Lcense Plate.jpg 1913White on green porcelain; "PENNA", aluminum keystone and "1913" at left123451 to approximately 80000
1914 PA license plate.JPG 1914White on black porcelain; "PENNA", aluminum keystone and "1914" at left1234561 to 19999;
40000 to approximately 115000
Penna 1915 plate.jpg 1915White on medium blue porcelain; "PENNA", aluminum keystone and "1915" at left1234561 to 19999;
30000 to approximately 164000
1916 Pennsylvania license plate 41580.jpg 1916Embossed black on orange; "PENNA", keystone and "1916" at left1234561 to 19999;
30000 to approximately 231000
First embossed plate.
1917 Pennsylvania license plate 53263.jpg 1917Embossed white on brown; "PENNA", keystone and "1917" at left1234561 to approximately 312000
1918 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1918Embossed white on black; "PENNA", keystone and "1918" at left1234561 to approximately 368000
1919 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1919Embossed red on black; "PENNA", keystone and "1919" at right1234561 to approximately 450000
1920 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1920Embossed white on navy blue; "PENNA 1920" at bottom123-4561 to approximately 529-000
1921 Pennsylvania license plate.JPG 1921Embossed black on golden yellow; "PENNA 1921" at bottom, with keystones on either side123-4561 to approximately 634-000
1922 Pennsylvania license plate.JPG 1922Embossed brown on cream; "PENNA 1922" at bottom, with keystones on either side123-4561 to approximately 765-000
1923 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1923Embossed golden yellow on navy blue; "PENNA 1923" at bottom, with keystones on either side123-4561 to approximately 986-000Six-digit plates were originally 16 inches in length, but reduced to 15 inches later.
1924 Pennsylvania license plate 990-407.jpg 1924Embossed navy blue on golden yellow; "PENNA 1924" at bottom, with keystones on either side123-4561 to 999-999
A-12345A-1 to approximately A-49000
1925 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1925Embossed golden yellow on navy blue; "1925 PENNA" at bottom, with keystones on either side123-4561 to 999-999
A12-345A-1 to approximately B58-000
1926 Pennsylvania license plate.JPG 1926Embossed navy blue on golden yellow with border line; "1926 PENNA" at bottom, with keystones on either side123-4561 to 999-999
A12-345A-1 to approximately C59-000
1927 Pennsylvania license plate 268-294.jpg 1927Embossed golden yellow on navy blue with border line; "1927 PENNA" at top, with keystones on either side123-4561 to 999-999
A12-345A-1 to approximately D63-000
1928 Pennsylvania license plate.JPG 1928Embossed navy blue on golden yellow with border line; "PENNA 1928" at top, with keystones on either side123-4561 to 999-999
A12-345A-1 to approximately E25-000
1929 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1929Embossed golden yellow on navy blue with border line; "1929 PENNA" at top, with keystones on either side123-4561 to 999-999
A12-345A-1 to approximately F24-000
1930 PA passenger plate.jpg 1930Embossed navy blue on golden yellow with border line; "1930 PENNA" at bottom, with keystones on either side12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
Letters I, O, Q, T, W and X not used in serials; this practice continued until 1974. [4]
1931 Pennsylvania license plate.JPG 1931Embossed golden yellow on navy blue with border line; "PENNA 1931" at bottom, with keystones on either side12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
1932 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1932Embossed navy blue on golden yellow with border line; "PENNA 1932" at top, with keystones on either side12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
1933 Pennsylvania license plate-common.JPG

1933 PA license plate.JPG

1933Embossed golden yellow on navy blue with border line; "PENNA 1933" or "1933 PENNA" at top, with keystones on either side12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1934 Pennsylvania license plate NN51.jpg 1934Embossed navy blue on golden yellow with border line; "1934 PENNA" at bottom, with keystones on either side12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1935 Pennsylvania license plate.JPG 1935Embossed golden yellow on navy blue with border line; "1935 PENNA" at bottom, with keystones on either side12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
1936 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1936Embossed navy blue on golden yellow; "1936 PENNA" at top, with keystones on either side12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
1937 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1937Embossed golden yellow on navy blue with state-shaped border; "1937 PENNA" at top12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
Later plates had keystones on either side of the year and state abbreviation.
1938 Pennsylvania license plate 2K904.jpg 1938Embossed navy blue on golden yellow with state-shaped border; "1938 PENNA" at top12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
1939 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1939–40Embossed golden yellow on navy blue with state-shaped border; "1939 PENNA" at top12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
Valid through March 31, 1940.
1940 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1940–41Embossed navy blue on golden yellow with state-shaped border; "1940 PENNA" at top12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
12AB3
1941 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1941–42Embossed golden yellow on navy blue with state-shaped border; "1941 PENNA" at top; "EXP. 3-31-42" inside top border12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
12AB3
1942 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg
1942-43 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg
1942–44Embossed navy blue on golden yellow with state-shaped border; "1942 PENNA" at top; "EXP. 3-31-43" inside top border12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
12AB3
Revalidated through March 31, 1944, with red tabs, due to metal conservation for World War II.
1944 Pennsylvania license plate.JPG 1944–45Embossed golden yellow on navy blue with state-shaped border; "1944 PENNA" at top; "EXP. 3-31-45" inside top border12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
1945 Pennsylvania license plate.JPG 1945–46Embossed navy blue on golden yellow with state-shaped border; "1945 PENNA" at top; "EXP. 3-31-46" inside top border12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
1946 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1946–47Embossed golden yellow on navy blue with state-shaped border; "1946 PENNA" at top; "EXP. 3-31-47" inside top border12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
12AB3
1947 Pennsylvania license plate.JPG 1947–48Embossed navy blue on golden yellow with state-shaped border; "1947 PENNA" at top; "EXP. 3-31-48" inside top border12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
12AB3
1948 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1948–49Embossed golden yellow on navy blue with state-shaped border; "1948 PENNA" at top; "EXP. 3-31-49" inside top border12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
12AB3
1949 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1949–50Embossed navy blue on golden yellow with state-shaped border; "1949 PENNA" at top; "EXP. 3-31-50" inside top border12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
12AB3
123AB
1950 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1950–51Embossed golden yellow on navy blue with state-shaped border; "1950 PENNA" at top; "EXP. 3-31-51" inside top border12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
12AB3
123AB
1951 Pennsylvania license plate 490P5.jpg 1951–52Embossed navy blue on golden yellow with state-shaped border; "1951 PENNA" at top; "EXP. 3-31-52" inside top border12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
12AB3
123AB
A123B
1952 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1952–53Embossed golden yellow on navy blue with state-shaped border; "1952 PENNA" at top; "EXP. 3-31-53" inside top border12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
12AB3
123AB
A123B
Only rear plates issued; this practice continues today.
1953 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1953–54Embossed navy blue on golden yellow with state-shaped border; "1953 PENNA" at top; "EXP. 3-31-54" inside top border12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
12AB3
123AB
A123B
1954 Pennsylvania license plate 330FP.jpg 1954–55Embossed golden yellow on navy blue with state-shaped border; "1954 PENNA" at top; "EXP. 3-31-55" inside top border12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
12AB3
123AB
A123B
A12B3
1955 Pennsylvania license plate 959SJ.jpg 1955–56Embossed navy blue on golden yellow with state-shaped border; "1955 PENNA" at top; "EXP. 3-31-56" inside top border12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
12AB3
123AB
A123B
A12B3
A1B23
1956 Pennsylvania license plate L656.jpg

1956 Pennsylvania license plate R1R00.jpg

1956–57Embossed golden yellow on navy blue with state-shaped border; "1956 PENNA" at top; "EXP. 3-31-57" inside top border12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
12AB3
123AB
A123B
A12B3
A1B23
Later plates used the thinner serial dies that would be used on most plates of the 1957–58 base. T and W briefly used as overflow letters in serials. [4]
1957 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg 1957–58Embossed navy blue on golden yellow with state-shaped border; "1957 PENNA" at top; "EXP. 3-31-58" inside top border12345
A1234
1A234
12A34
123A4
1234A
AB123
1AB23
12AB3
123AB
1957 Pennsylvania license plate 103873.jpg 123456100000 to approximately 880000Narrower serial dies.

1958 to present

Only plates issued since 1999 are currently valid for display. [5]

ImageDates issuedDesignSloganSerial formatSerials issuedNotes
1958 Pennsylvania license plate 114-43M.jpg 1958–60Yellow on blue with small keystone separator and state-shaped bordernone123-456100-000 to 999-999Sticker validation through 1964.
A12-345A00-000 to Z99-999
1960–63123-45A000-00A to 999-99Z
1963–651A2-3450A0-000 to approximately 0H8-000
1965 Pennsylvania License Plate.jpg 1965–66Blue on yellow with small keystone separator and state-shaped bordernone123-456100-000 to 999-999First use of the full state name. Sticker validation through 1970.
A12-345A00-000 to Z99-999
123-45A000-00A to 999-99Z
1966–691A2-3450A0-000 to 9Z9-999
1969–7112A-34500A-000 to approximately 62U-000
1971 Sample Pennsylvania License Plate.jpg

1971 Pennsylvania license plate ATC-347.jpg

1971–73Yellow on blue with Liberty Bell separatorBicentennial State '76123-456100-000 to 999-999Awarded "Plate of the Year" for best new license plate of 1971 by the Automobile License Plate Collectors Association, the first time Pennsylvania was so honored. Letters T, W and X added to serials in 1974. [4] Sticker validation through 1976.
A12-345A00-000 to Z99-999
123-45A000-00A to 999-99Z
1A2-3450A0-000 to 9Z9-999
1973–7612A-34500A-000 to 99Z-999
1976–77123-A45000-A00 to approximately 650-H00
1977 Pennsylvania license plate 828-828.jpg 1977–79Blue on reflective yellow with large keystone separatorKeystone State123-456100-000 to 999-999Monthly staggered registration introduced 1979–80. Sticker validation through 2000.
1977 Pennsylvania license plate Z88-288.jpg A12-345A00-000 to Z99-999
1977 Pennsylvania license plate 577-77M.jpg 123-45A000-00A to 999-99Z
1977 Pennsylvania license plate 5N5-599.jpg 1A2-3450A0-000 to 9Z9-999
1977 Pennsylvania license plate AAN-021.jpg 1979–83ABC-123AAA-000 to GZZ-999
1985 Pennsylvania license plate JDD-411.jpg 1983–87Reflective yellow on blue with large keystone separatorYou've Got a Friend in PennsylvaniaABC-123HAA-000 to RZZ-999 1Sticker validation through 2002. Letter U not used in the ABC-1234 serial format (in addition to I, O and Q). [4]
Pennsylvania license plate, 1987.png 1987 – August 1991Keystone StateSAA-000 to ZZZ-999 1
1991 Pennsylvanian license plate, BPP-1852.jpg August 1991 – September 1999As above, but with smaller keystone separatorABC-1234AAA-0000 to approximately CEJ-9999 1
PA 00.jpg September 1999 – December 2004Dark blue on reflective white gradating to light blue on top and to light yellow on bottomWWW.STATE.PA.USABC-1234DAA-0000 to approximately FYC-9999 1Sticker validation through 2017; plates validated electronically thereafter. [6] Due to be replaced over the next few years. [7]
2012 Pennsylvania license plate.jpg December 2004 – June
2017
Dark blue on reflective white with navy blue on top and yellow on bottomvisitPA.comABC-1234GBA-0000 to KLE-9999 1A and E not used as second letter in serials. Sticker validation through 2017; plates validated electronically thereafter.
2017 Pennsylvanian license plate.png June 2017 – presentAs above, but with state outline at top leftKLF-0000 to MRJ-9836 (as of October 9, 2024)Validated electronically.
2025 [8] Blue on cream with image of Liberty Bell; Red state name at top, red slogan at bottomLet Freedom RingABC1234TBDPlanned to be issued in 2025. [8]

Notes

Temporary plates

Unlike many states that issue paper or cardboard temporary license plates with a new registration until the permanent registration and plates comes in, Pennsylvania almost always issues the permanent plate right away, with a temporary tag in the rear window indicating the exact date the temporary tag expires, upon which it is removed or when the full-year registration sticker for the plate comes in, whichever comes first. (Some cars do get issued a paper temporary Pennsylvania plate, usually by those who live out-of-state buying a car in Pennsylvania who need the temporary tag until the vehicle title is transferred to the state they live in.) Until April 2000, new plates had a "T" sticker to denote a temporary tag on the plate until the full-year registration came in the mail with the regular registration sticker. Pennsylvania adopted the current system to combat criminals making counterfeit "T" stickers. For plates that already had the "T" stickers but were not issued yet to vehicles at the time of the change, Pennsylvania gave car dealerships and notaries plain white stickers to cover up the "T" tags so that the plates could still be used.[ citation needed ]

Non-passenger plates

ImageTypeSerial formatNotes
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Antique Historic Car 1
12
123
1234
A123
AB12
12AB
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Antique motorcycle1
12
123
A12
1A2
12A
AB1
A1B
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Antique vehicleA12B
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Apportioned bus BN-12345
2011 Pennsylvanian apportioned license plate.jpg Apportioned truckAB-12345Began at AE-00000 in 2000. Current highest serial seen: AH-25310 (as of May 3, 2022).
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Bus BA-12345
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Circus-Carnival TruckB/Z 12345
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Classic Car12345
C12345
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Classic MotorcycleC/L 123
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Collectible MotorcycleCM123
1987 Pennsylvania license plate CV-0000 collectible.jpg Collectible VehicleCV 1234
Pennsylvania Dealer Plate K66-966K.jpg DealerH12-345H
J12-345J
K12-345K
Both letters are the same. Current highest serial seen: K67-595K (on March 3, 2022).
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Dealer – Farm EquipmentFE1234A
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Dealer – Multi PurposeMP1234A
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Emergency VehicleEV-12345Red serial and "EMERGENCY VEHICLE" legend on standard passenger design.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Farm TruckFM-1234A
1987 Pennsylvania license plate FD-00000 fire department.jpg Fire DepartmentFD-12345This type was issued from 1968 to the mid-1980s; plates remained valid until 2007, when they were replaced with Emergency Vehicle plates. [9]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Fleet TransporterFL1234A
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Handicapped P/D 1234A
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Handicapped MotorcycleP/D A12B
PA HE-03055.jpg Hearing Impaired HE-12345
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Implement of HusbandryIMP-1234
Pennsylvania Limousine License PlateLM-26027.jpg Limousine LM-12345This type was introduced in 1990, with serials beginning at LM-10000. [10] Current highest serial seen: LM-31399 (on August 14, 2022).
Pennsylvania Mass Transit License Plate.jpg Mass TransitM/T12345
MT-12345
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Moped AB123
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Moped Dealer1234
PA HH-01271.jpg Motor Home HB-12345This type was introduced in 1977 as "House Car", changing to "Motor Home" circa 1990. Serials began at HC-10000; the HE series was reserved for Hearing Impaired plates. [10] Current highest serial seen: HH-97907 (on May 11, 2022).
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Motorcycle ABC12
1234A
A1234
1AB23
Current serial format introduced mid-2015.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Motorcycle Dealer123A
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Municipal Government MG-12345
12345-MG
MG-1234A
M/G1234A
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Municipal MotorcycleMG123
MG12A
1987 Pennsylvania license plate Official Use Sample.jpg Official Use – PassengerPA-12345
12345-PA
Front and rear plates required. Serials PA-10000 through PA-29999 issued, followed by 10000-PA onwards. [11]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Official Use – CommercialPA-12345
PA-1234A
Only rear plates required. Serials PA-30000 through PA-99999 issued, followed by PA-0000A onwards. [11]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Omnibus OB-12345Current serial format began at OB-10000 in 1974. [12] Current highest serial seen: OB-92605 (on November 8, 2021).
Pennsylvanian permanent trailer license plate, c. 2017.png Permanent TrailerPT-1234A
PT-123A4
Began at PT-0000A in 2001; reached PT-9999Z in early 2015, followed by PT-000A0 onwards. Current highest serial seen: PT-996P3 (on August 22, 2022).
RT-49800.jpg Repair TowingRT-12345
RE-05011.jpg Repossessor RE-12345
SALVAGEYARD-PA.jpg Salvage YardWL-12345
Pa-School-bus.jpg School Bus SC-12345
Blank License Plate Shape.svg School VehicleSV-12345
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Special Mobile EquipmentSME-123A
A123-SME
Used by heavy construction equipment or other utility vehicles that are street-legal but not eligible for Truck or Apportioned plates.
Pennsylvanian state police license plate, 2022-present.png State police P/A 1234VCurrent version introduced in 2022.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Street Rod1234 S/R
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Taxi TX-12345This type was introduced in 1977, taxis using Bus plates beforehand. [12] Current highest serial seen: TX-51112 (on August 15, 2022).
Pennsylvania Temporary Intransit license plate.jpg Temporary In-Transit1234-567Paper plate, first issued in 2014.
Pennsylvania Trailer License Plate XCG-6033.jpg Trailer XBC-1234Sticker validation through 2022, due to the 5 year registration. Current highest serial seen: XPC-9487 (on June 22, 2023).
Pennsylvania Trailer Dealer License Plate.jpg Trailer DealerTD-1234A
PA DT-09667.jpg TransporterDT-12345
2010 Pennsylvania Truck License Plate.jpg Truck YBC-1234
ZBC-1234
Began at YAA-0000 in 2000; reached YZZ-9999 in early 2011, followed by ZBA-0000 onwards. Current highest serial seen: ZYC-9684on August 20, 2024). 'Y' series plates due to be replaced over the next few years. [7]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Watercraft Trailer / DealerWD12345

Optional plates

Pennsylvania offers many optional "special organizational" and "special fund" license plates. [5] [13] Special fund license plate proceeds are directed to organizations involved with their respective causes. [14]

ImageTypeSerial formatNotes
PA 4-H Youth Program Plate.jpg 4-H Youth Program 4/H 12345
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Amateur Radio FCC call sign
Blank License Plate Shape.svg American Legion A/L 12345Available for issue to members of the American Legion
Animal Friends.jpg Animal Friends 12345 A/F
PA-Bucknell-University.jpg Bucknell University B/U 12345
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Commonwealth CourtC/C 1
PA Conserve Wild Resources License Plate (Owl).jpg Conserve Wild Resources – owlW/R12345
W/R1234A
No longer issued, but still valid with continuous registration.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Conserve Wild Resources – river otter R/C1234
R/C123A
R/C12A3
R/C1A23
No longer issued, but still valid with continuous registration.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg R/C12345Revised design.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Disabled VeteranDV-12345
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Emergency Medical Services EM 1234Issued to licensed Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics in Pennsylvania.
2012 Pennsylvania license plate Flagship-Niagara-Governor.jpg Flagship Niagara F/N1234
F/N123A
Awarded "Plate of the Year" for best new optional license plate of 1995 by the Automobile License Plate Collectors Association, the second time Pennsylvania was so honored. Co-recipient with Texas. No longer issued due to poor visibility, but still valid.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Fire Fighter FF 1234Issued to professional Fire Fighters in Pennsylvania. See VF plate for volunteers.
Pennsylvania 2012 Fort Mifflin On The Delawarre license plate.jpg Fort Mifflin 12345F/M
Pennsylvania 2009 Geneva College license plate.jpg Geneva College G/C12345
Pennsylvania 2009 Harleysville Community Fire Company license plate.jpg Harleysville Community Fire Co. 12345H/F
Pennsylvania Harmonville Fire Company No. 1 license plate.jpg Harmonville Fire Company No. 1 12345P/T
Pennsylvania 2009 Hartsville Fire Company License Plate.jpg Hartsville Fire Company 12345H/F
Pennsylvania 2011 Heritage Region Jeep Alliance license plate.jpg Heritage Jeep Alliance 12345H/R
Pennsylvania 2012 Little League Baseball license plate.jpg Little League Baseball 12345L/L
Pennsylvania Lincoln University License Plate.JPG Lincoln University L1234U
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Motorcycle Vanity varies
Pennsylvania 2012 Mercedes Benz Club Of America license plate.jpg Mercedes-Benz Club of America12345M/B
PA MS Optional.jpg National MS Society 12345M/S
Pennsylvania 2012 National Police Defense Foundation license plate.jpg National Police Defense Foundation 12345 P/F
PA Planned Parenthood License Plate.jpg Planned Parenthood of Pennsylvania12345 P/P
Pennsylvania Vanity License Plate.jpg Passenger Vanity varies
PA Equine Council-registration tag.jpg Pennsylvania Equine Council 12345 P/EAvailable for issue to members of the Pennsylvania Equine Council who have paid their yearly dues for a minimum or 1 year. Application to the PEC available on their website.
1987 Pennsylvania license plate A36-75P PSU.jpg Pennsylvania State University A12-34P
Philadelphia Flyers Wives CharitiesFL12345
Preserve Our HeritageR/R1234
R/R123A
R/R12A3
R/R1A23
PP760.jpg Press Photographer PP 123Letters within keystone. Issued to full-time newspaper, newsreel and television photographers. Front and rear plates required. [2]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Retired LegislatorP/A 12345
Save Wild AnimalsP/Z1234
P/Z123A
P/Z12A3
P/Z1A23
P/ZA123B
No longer issued, but still valid with continuous registration.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Slippery Rock University S/R 01234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg State RepresentativeHR 123Letters within keystone.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg State SenatorPA 12Letters within keystone.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Steel WorkerS/W 12345
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Superior CourtS/C 12
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Supreme Court S/U 12
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Temple University T1234U
Blank License Plate Shape.svg U.S. Congress U/SC 1
Blank License Plate Shape.svg U.S. Senate U/SS 1
Blank License Plate Shape.svg University of Pittsburgh U1234P
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Villanova University V/U 12345
12345 V/U
1987 Pennsylvania license plate US00000 We The People.jpg We The People U/S 12345Limited edition plate issued in 1987 only, but still valid with renewal.
Pennsylvania 2009 Women In Transition Inc. license plate.jpg Women in Transition Inc. 12345 W/T
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Volunteer Firefighter VF 12345Issued to volunteer Fire Fighters in Pennsylvania.

Military plates

ImageTypeFirst issuedSerial formatNotes
PA license - Air Force Cross.jpg Air Force Cross 201212345A/C
PA tag - Bronze Star.jpg Bronze Star 201212345B/Z
PA tag - Bronze Star for Valor.jpg Bronze Star for Valor 201212345B/V
PA Combat Action Badge.jpg Combat Action Badge 201402345C/O
PA Combat Action Medal.jpg Combat Action Medal 201462345C/O
PA Combat Action Ribbon.jpg Combat Action Ribbon 201442345C/O
PA Combat infantryman badge.jpg Combat Infantryman Badge 201422345C/O
PA Combat Medical Badge.jpg Combat Medical Badge 201482345C/O
PA Distinguished Flying Cross.jpg Distinguished Flying Cross 201212345F/C
PA Distinguished Service Cross.jpg Distinguished Service Cross 201222345S/C
1987 Pennsylvania license plate 663-POW.jpg Ex-Prisoner of War 1982POW-123
123-POW
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Expeditionary Forces Veteran1995E/F1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Gold Star Family 2006G/S/F1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Korean Defense Service Medal 201012345K/D
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Korean War Veteran1993K/V12345
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Legion of Merit 201912345L/M
1987 Pennsylvania license plate Medal of Honor sample.jpg Medal of Honor 1982ABC-MOHThe letters to the left of the graphic are the initials of the honoree.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Navy Cross 201212345N/C
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Operation Enduring Freedom Veteran200512345E/F
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Operation Iraqi Freedom Veteran200512345I/F
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Pearl Harbor Survivor1990P/H S1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Pennsylvania National Guard 201892345A/D
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Persian Gulf War Veteran1993P/G12345
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Presidential Service Badge 201912345P/B
1987 Pennsylvania license plate PH00-00.jpg Purple Heart 1986P/H12345
PA Silver Star.jpg Silver Star 201212345S/I
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Soldier's Medal 201912345S/M
Blank License Plate Shape.svg U.S. Air Force 201742345A/D
Blank License Plate Shape.svg U.S. Air Force Veteran200912345A/F
Blank License Plate Shape.svg U.S. Army 201702345A/D
Blank License Plate Shape.svg U.S. Army Veteran200912345A/R
Blank License Plate Shape.svg U.S. Coast Guard 201782345A/D
Blank License Plate Shape.svg U.S. Coast Guard Veteran200912345C/G
Blank License Plate Shape.svg U.S. Marine Corps 201762345A/D
Blank License Plate Shape.svg U.S. Marine Corps Veteran200912345M/C
Blank License Plate Shape.svg U.S. Merchant Marine 201312345M/M
PA Registration Tag - US Military Airborne Units.jpg U.S. Military Airborne Units 201322345M/A
Blank License Plate Shape.svg U.S. Navy 201722345A/D
Blank License Plate Shape.svg U.S. Navy Veteran200912345N/A
Pennsylvania Veteran sample license plate.jpg Veteran 200512345U/S
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Veteran Motorcycle2004V1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Veterans of an Allied Foreign Country201912345V/AIssued to registrants who were citizens of a foreign country that allied with the U.S. in a military conflict, and who served in a military branch of that foreign country during the conflict.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Vietnam War Veteran1999V/W12345
PA WW2 Veteran Plate.gif World War II Veteran1995W/W12345

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plate</span> Devices displaying a character string that uniquely identifies a particular commercial vehicle.

A vehicle registration plate, also known as a number plate or license plate or licence plate, is a metal or plastic plate attached to a motor vehicle or trailer for official identification purposes. All countries require registration plates for commercial road vehicles such as cars, trucks, and motorcycles, for hire. Whether they are required for other vehicles, such as bicycles, boats, or tractors, may vary by jurisdiction. The registration identifier is a numeric or alphanumeric ID that uniquely identifies the vehicle or vehicle owner within the issuing region's vehicle register. In some countries, the identifier is unique within the entire country, while in others it is unique within a state or province. Whether the identifier is associated with a vehicle or a person also varies by issuing agency. There are also electronic license plates.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Department of motor vehicles</span> Government agency

A department of motor vehicles (DMV) is a government agency that administers motor vehicle registration and driver licensing. In countries with federal states such as in North America, these agencies are generally administered by subnational entities governments, while in unitary states such as many of those in Europe, DMVs are organized nationally by the central government.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Pennsylvania Department of Transportation</span> Government agency of Pennsylvania, United States

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) oversees transportation issues in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The administrator of PennDOT is the Pennsylvania Secretary of Transportation, Michael B. Carroll. PennDOT supports nearly 40,000 miles (64,000 km) of state roads and highways, about 25,000 bridges, and new roadway construction with the exception of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle license plates of the United States</span> American vehicle license plates

In the United States, vehicle registration plates, known as license plates, are issued by a department of motor vehicles, an agency of the state or territorial government, or in the case of the District of Columbia, the district government. Some Native American tribes also issue plates. The U.S. federal government issues plates only for its own vehicle fleet and for vehicles owned by foreign diplomats. Until the 1980s, diplomatic plates were issued by the state in which the consulate or embassy was located.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Kansas</span> Kansas vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of Kansas first required its residents to register their vehicles and display license plates in 1913. Plates are currently issued by the Kansas Department of Revenue through its Division of Vehicles and only rear plates have been required since 1956.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Driver's licenses in the United States</span>

In the United States, driver's licenses are issued by each individual state, territory, and the District of Columbia rather than by the federal government due to federalism. Drivers are normally required to obtain a license from their state of residence. All states of the United States and provinces and territories of Canada recognize each other's licenses for non-resident age requirements. There are also licenses for motorcycle use. Generally, a minimum age of 15 is required to apply for a non-commercial driver license, and 25 for commercial licenses which drivers must have to operate vehicles that are too heavy for a non-commercial licensed driver or vehicles with at least 16 passengers or containing hazardous materials that require placards. A state may also suspend an individual's driving privilege within its borders for traffic violations. Many states share a common system of license classes, with some exceptions, e.g. commercial license classes are standardized by federal regulation at 49 CFR 383. Many driving permits and ID cards display small digits next to each data field. This is required by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators' design standard and has been adopted by many US states. The AAMVA provides a standard for the design of driving permits and identification cards issued by its member jurisdictions, which include all 50 US states, the District of Columbia, and Canadian territories and provinces. The newest card design standard released is the 2020 AAMVA DL/ID Card Design Standard (CDS). The AAMVA standard generally follows part 1 and part 2 of ISO/IEC 18013-1. The ISO standard in turn specifies requirements for a card that is aligned with the UN Conventions on Road Traffic, namely the Geneva Convention on Road Traffic and the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.

Vehicle registration plates of Canada, also known as licence plates, are issued by provincial or territorial government agencies. Registration plates in Canada are typically attached to motor vehicles or trailers for official identification purposes. Some Canadian registration plates have unique designs, shapes, and slogans related to the issuing jurisdiction. For example, registration plates issued in the Northwest Territories are shaped like a polar bear. In Alberta, registration plates typically display the words "Wild Rose Country."

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of New Jersey</span> New Jersey vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of New Jersey first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1903. Registrants provided their own license plates for display until 1908, when the state began to issue plates.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Maryland</span> Maryland vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of Maryland first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1904. Registrants provided their own license plates for display until 1910, when the state began to issue plates.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Massachusetts</span> Massachusetts vehicle license plates

Massachusetts was the first U.S. state to issue license plates on September 1, 1903, to Frederick Tudor. Plates are currently issued by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Delaware</span> Delaware vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of Delaware first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1905. Registrants provided their own license plates for display until 1909, when the state began to issue plates. Beginning in 1910, plates were issued in sequential order from the number 1 upwards.

The U.S. state of Illinois first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1907. Registrants provided their own license plates for display until 1911, when the state began to issue plates. As of 2023, plates are issued by the Illinois Secretary of State.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Ohio</span> Ohio vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of Ohio first required its residents to register their motor vehicles and display license plates in 1908, although several cities within the state issued their own license plates from as early as 1902.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Oregon</span> Oregon vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of Oregon first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1905. Registrants provided their own license plates for display until 1911, when the state began to issue plates.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Texas</span> Texas vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of Texas first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1907. Registrants provided their own license plates for display, with serial numbers assigned by their county of residence, until the state began to issue plates in 1917.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Wisconsin</span> Wisconsin vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of Wisconsin first required its residents to register their motor vehicles and display license plates in 1905. Plates are currently issued by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) through its Division of Motor Vehicles. Front and rear plates are required for most classes of vehicles, while only rear plates are required for motorcycles and trailers.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Ontario</span> Licence plates of Ontario, Canada

The Canadian province of Ontario first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1903. Registrants provided their own licence plates for display until 1911, when the province began to issue plates. Plates are currently issued by the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO). The location of plates is specified by the Highway Traffic Act and Regulation 628 under the Act.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of California</span> California vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of California first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1905. Registrants provided their own license plates for display until 1914, when the state began to issue plates. Plates are currently issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Connecticut</span> Connecticut vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of Connecticut first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1903. Registrants provided their own license plates for display until 1905, when the state began to issue plates. Since then, Connecticut has used a variety of license plate designs, and has issued different designs for passenger, non-passenger, and, more recently, optional plate types that often require an additional fee. As of 2024, plates are issued by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle inspection in the United States</span> By-state vehicle-safety and emissions inspection

In the United States, vehicle safety inspection and emissions inspection are governed by each state individually. Fifteen states have a periodic safety inspection program, while Maryland requires a safety inspection and Alabama requires a VIN inspection on sale or transfer of vehicles which were previously registered in another state. An additional 16 states require periodic emissions inspections.

References

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  2. 1 2 "Personal Registration Plates Fact Sheet" (PDF). Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. July 2014. Retrieved June 13, 2020.
  3. Garrish, Christopher (October 2016). "Reconsidering the Standard Plate Size". Plates. Vol. 62, no. 5. Automobile License Plate Collectors Association.
  4. 1 2 3 4 Tanner, Eric N. "Pennsylvania Passenger License Plates". allaboutlicenseplates.com. Retrieved November 10, 2020.
  5. 1 2 Penndot brochure "License Plates of Pennsylvania" March 2007
  6. Murphy, Jan (December 14, 2016). "Pa. drivers say goodbye to vehicle registration stickers; hello to higher fees and new license plate". PennLive. Retrieved July 31, 2017.
  7. 1 2 "Registration Plate Reissuance Frequently Asked Questions". Pennsylvania Department of Transportation . Retrieved March 21, 2018.
  8. 1 2 "New License Plates Coming in 2025". PennDOT Driver & Vehicle Services. Retrieved 16 July 2024.
  9. McDevitt, John. "Plate History - General Issue Plates A to F". PA PL8S. Retrieved February 20, 2022.
  10. 1 2 McDevitt, John. "Plate History - General Issue Plates G to M". PA PL8S. Retrieved December 30, 2021.
  11. 1 2 McDevitt, John. "Official Plates". PA PL8S. Retrieved June 13, 2020.
  12. 1 2 McDevitt, John. "Plate History - General Issue Plates N to Z". PA PL8S. Retrieved December 19, 2021.
  13. "DVS Home".
  14. "Special Fund Plates". PennDOT Driver & Vehicle Services. Retrieved 2019-09-15.