In the realm of vehicle personalization, few things make a statement quite like a vanity license plate. These unique alphanumeric combinations add a touch of individuality to your vehicle and offer an opportunity to express your creativity or showcase your interests.
It’s no surprise you’re interested in getting a personalized license plate for your vehicle. We’re here to guide you through the process of obtaining a personalized vanity plate in Illinois with step-by-step instructions and details on the rules and requirements. We’ll also cover the associated costs and offer helpful tips to ensure the DMV does not reject your plate.
What are Vanity License plates?
Vanity license plates, also known as personalized, are pretty cool. They’re like standard Illinois license plates, but with a twist. Instead of having a random combination of letters and numbers assigned by the state, you get to choose your own unique combination of characters. It’s a fun way to show off your individuality or express your personal interests. So, if you’ve ever wanted to have a license plate that holds special meaning to you, a vanity plate is the way to go.
These distinctive plates often feature clever wordplay, abbreviations, acronyms, or personalized messages. Some individuals opt for their names, nicknames, or memorable phrases, while others choose to display their favorite sports teams or hobbies.
Note: While vanity and personalized plates mean the same thing in other states but in Illinois there is a slight difference. In Illinois, personalized plates have limited customization options while vanity plates offer more.
How to avoid having your personalized license plate denied by Illinois DMV
Before submitting your application, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the guidelines provided by the Illinois Secretary of State’s office to avoid having your personalized license plate denied. Personalized plates cannot contain any offensive or inappropriate content. For example, PEEPEE, SUKIT, or DUCKYOU are a few of the hundreds of plates that were denied.
So before you finalize your choice, keep in mind that it’s always good to consider other options
- Step One: Go to Illinois’s Secretary of State’s site: https://apps.ilsos.gov/pickaplate/.
- Step Two: Choose a License Plate Category
- Step Three: Enter the personalized license plate number and select ‘Check availability.’ The site will let you know if the tag is already taken or if it will not be approved.
Take the steps to save yourself unnecessary stress by doing some research before you send in your application.
Design Options
To enhance your personalized license plate, you have the option to select from more than 60 specialty plate designs offered by the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office. To explore the available specialty plates and obtain the required application forms, please refer this link: https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/vehicles/license_plate_guide/licenseplates.html.
Here are some of the options available;
- Support Our Troops
- Louis Cardinals
- International Brotherhood of Teamsters
- Motorcycle
- Organ Donor
- Illinois Police Association
- America Remembers
- Educators
- Chicago White Sox
- Environmental
- Ducks Unlimited
What are the requirements for a personalized or vanity plate in Illinois?
Illinois is the only state in the US which differentiates between personalized and vanity plates. Basically, Vanity plates are more customizable than personalized plates.
- Personalized plates consist of letters and numbers, with the letters appearing first, then a space, and then one or two numbers.
- On the other hand, vanity plates are comprised of either letters or numbers, with a maximum of three numbers allowed or one to seven letters only.
- The combination of characters must be unique and not already registered in your state.
- The plate requested shouldn’t read obscene or offensive.
- The DMV has the final say in approving requested plates.
How much does it cost for a personalized license plate in Illinois?
The cost of license plates in Illinois varies based on the plate type and design. A vanity license plate costs $123 for initial issuance and $164 for renewal. Additionally, certain designs may have an additional fee.
Personalized license plates cost $76 ($47 personalized fee + $29 replacement fee) for initial issuance and $158 for renewals.
Please note payment must be made during the process using a Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express card only, and a payment processor fee will be assessed for all transactions.
How to order a personalized plate in Illinois
Online: If you would like to order your plate online. Follow the steps below;
- Step One: Go to https://apps.ilsos.gov/pickaplate/
- Step Two: Choose a License Plate Category
- Step Three: Enter the letters and or numbers you want on your plate and check the availability
- Step Four: Make sure you have your current vehicle identification number (VIN) and current license plate number, which are on the vehicle registration card, and the primary and secondary (if applicable) owner’s last name, driver’s license number, and last four digits of the Social Security Number (SSN).
- Step Five: Complete the application and submit payment.
Please note that you can’t order special plates with eligibility requirements online.
In-Person: Visit any Secretary of State Facility throughout Illinois. Ask for a License Plates Request Application form from one of their customer service representatives. Make sure you have all necessary documents with you when visiting in person; these usually include your current vehicle registration card and proof of insurance.
By Mail: If you want to go the traditional route by mailing in your application. Follow the steps below.
- Step One: Go to: https://www.ilsos.gov/publications/pdf_publications/vsd948.pdf
- Step Two: Print out the application and complete it
- Step Three: Enclose Payment
- Step Four: Mail in the application and payment to
Secretary of State
Vehicle Services Department – Personalized Plates Section
501 S. Second St., RM 532
Springfield, IL 62756
How long does it take to get the vanity plate?
In general, it can take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks to receive your personalized license plate in Illinois. This includes the time it takes for your application to be reviewed and approved, as well as for the manufacturing and delivery process.
It’s important to keep in mind that this timeline is an estimate and not a guarantee. Factors such as incorrect documentation or incomplete information on your application can result in delays. If you would like to contact The Office of the Illinois Secretary of State you can do so online using this link: https://apps.ilsos.gov/ContactFormsWeb/plates_reg_contact.jsp
Wrapping Up
Embrace this opportunity with enthusiasm as it not only adds flair to your vehicle but also serves as a conversation starter during daily commutes or weekend adventures. With a touch of creativity and adherence to the provided guidelines, your personalized license plate will become a symbol of individuality, leaving an indelible impression on fellow drivers.
So, embark on this journey and elevate your vehicle’s presence with a customized license plate that is uniquely yours.
