Texas issues millions of license plates annually through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV). Texas offers one of the largest selections of specialty and personalized license plates of any state in the country. Here is an overview of Texas license plate issuance data and plate type statistics.
24M+
Active License Plates
in Texas
900+
Specialty Plate
Designs Available
7 Years
Plate Replacement
Cycle in Texas
Standard Texas license plates use the format AA1-A123 (two letters, number, letter, three numbers). The current standard design features a light blue background with black lettering and a Lone Star symbol. Standard plates account for the majority of all active Texas plates and are the most commonly seen on TX roads. Standard plates are digitally printed on aluminum and must be replaced every 7 years.
Texas offers over 900 specialty license plate designs — one of the largest selections of any state in the country. Specialty plates are available for universities, military branches, causes, organizations, and interests. They carry an additional annual fee above the standard registration cost. Specialty plates can be ordered online through MyPlates.com — TxDMV’s designated specialty plate vendor.
Texas allows vehicle owners to create personalized license plates with custom letter and number combinations. Personalized plates are available through MyPlates.com with an additional annual fee. Combinations must be unique and are subject to TxDMV approval. Personalized plates are a subset of specialty plates and follow the same 7-year replacement cycle.
Commercial vehicles and business fleets in Texas receive commercial license plates. These plates follow different registration fee structures based on vehicle weight and type. Commercial plates are issued through the county tax assessor-collector’s office and must comply with TxDMV commercial vehicle requirements.
Plate Cost
Standard TX plate registration: $51.75 base fee plus county fee ($10–$20). Total typically $62–$72 annually. Specialty plates carry additional fees.
Front & Rear Requirement
Texas requires plates on both front and rear of most vehicles (Section 504.943). Motorcycles, trailers, and certain antique vehicles require only a rear plate.
Plate Violation Fine
The typical fine for a license plate violation in Texas is $200. This includes displaying an expired, obscured, or missing plate.
Digital Printing
Texas plates are digitally printed on aluminum rather than embossed or stamped. This is different from many other states and gives TX plates a distinct flat appearance.