Minnesota’s blackout license plates have become a popular way to personalize your vehicle while contributing to state services. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about these stylish plates, from eligibility and costs to the application process and the story behind the “Z” prefix.
Blackout plates distinguish themselves with their sleek aesthetic: bright white characters set against a deep black background. This minimalist design offers a subtle yet noticeable way to customize your vehicle. First made available on January 1, 2024, these plates have quickly become a sought-after accessory for Minnesota drivers.
Eligibility and Costs
Blackout plates are available for a variety of vehicles, including:
Passenger cars
Light trucks (up to one ton)
Recreational vehicles (RVs)
Motorcycles
The cost breakdown is as follows:
Annual Contribution: A minimum of $30 to the Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) operating fund. You can, of course, contribute more if you’d like.
Special Plate Fee: $15.50 for cars, trucks, and RVs; $13.50 for motorcycles.
Transfer Fee: $5 to transfer existing blackout plates to another eligible vehicle you own.
How to Get Your Blackout Plates
The application process is designed for convenience, with three main options:
Online: This is likely the fastest way to apply. Visit the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) website for the application.
Deputy Registrar Office: Apply in person at your local office. This is a good option if you have questions or prefer face-to-face assistance.
By Mail: Download the application form, include the necessary fees, and mail to: Driver and Vehicle Services, 445 Minnesota St., St. Paul, MN 55101-5187. This method may take the longest.
The “Z” Story and Current Format
Early adopters of non-vanity blackout plates received plates with a “Z” prefix. This wasn’t a secret code but a result of how the DVS system initially designated the plates. The unexpected popularity—nearly 225,840 plates issued by late 2024—led to the DVS needing to adapt. Due to the high demand exhausting “Z” combinations, the format was switched to the standard three-number, three-letter sequence by late 2024.
Personalization and Accessibility
You can further personalize your blackout plates with custom lettering, adding a unique touch to your vehicle. For drivers with disabilities, blackout plates are also available with the accessibility symbol.
Benefits Beyond Style
By purchasing blackout plates, you’re not only enhancing your vehicle’s appearance but also contributing to a good cause. The funds generated support essential DVS operations and improvements, including the development of new self-service kiosks. These kiosks, located in some grocery stores, offer a convenient way to renew your registration.
Part of a Larger Trend
The blackout plates are just one of over 130 specialty license plates available in Minnesota. This reflects a broader trend towards personalized plates, with options ranging from sports teams (Vikings, Twins, Wild, Timberwolves, Lynx, and soon, Minnesota United) to supporting organizations like Lions Club International and raising awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR).
What Officials Are Saying
Even Governor Tim Walz has expressed his enthusiasm for the blackout plates, calling them “nostalgic” and a feature he felt Minnesota was missing out on, something “Iowa had over us.” Greg Loper, DVS Vehicle Services Program Director, simply stated, “They look cool,” echoing the sentiment of many Minnesotans.
The Future of Minnesota Plates
While the future of license plate technology and design remains to be seen, the current popularity of blackout plates suggests a shift towards increased self-expression and support for state services through specialty plates. Will we see even more personalized options, perhaps incorporating new technologies? Only time will tell. However, the success of the blackout plates program suggests ongoing innovation and responsiveness to driver preferences from the DVS.
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