Latest license plate design rescinded, public input process to be established

“I promised to be a bipartisan governor, and I think we can all admit – I succeeded at bringing Kansans across the political aisle together in disliking this new license plate,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “I’ve heard you loud and clear. Elected officials should be responsive to their constituents, which is why we are adjusting the process so Kansans can provide direct input on our state’s next license plate.”

Earlier this year, lawmakers had authorized spending up to $9.8 million on producing new plates, covering much of the cost through leftover federal coronavirus pandemic relief dollars.

Motorists would be required to purchase the new plate starting in March of next year for 50 cents when they go in to renew their vehicle’s annual registration. To avoid using this plate, motorists would have to buy a specialty license plate at a higher cost. The Kansas Department of Revenue has stated that license plates deteriorate over time and become harder for law enforcement to read on the road, prompting a need for the new license plate.

Kansans will now have the opportunity to vote for their favorite design among several that follow guidelines that comply with the needs of law enforcement entities and best practices established by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, including:

• License plate numbers will be seven (7) digits.

• Any phrase, motto, or slogan must be placed at the bottom of the license plate.

• Any graphic must be placed on the right or left side of the license plate number.

• Graphics must not resemble letters, numbers, or special characters in a way that would interfere with the ability to read the license plate number.

• Background design must not interfere with the ability to read the license plate number.

• The license plate must have a light background behind the license plate number, and the license plate number must be black.

The Governor’s Office will share more details on license plate options, the voting process, and how this announcement impacts the transition from embossed to print-on-demand plates soon.