Current North Dakota License Plates
Since launching on November 12, 2015, North Dakota's 'Legendary' license plate series has defined the state's vehicles for roughly a decade. This standard 12-inch by 6-inch aluminum plate features the iconic Theodore Roosevelt National Park imagery and the 'Great Plains State' slogan, utilizing a sequential three-number, three-letter serial format for most passenger vehicles.
The Legendary Plate Series
The standard plate is officially known as the "Legendary" series, launched on November 12, 2015. A minor redesign occurred in November 2016. It remains the default choice for most vehicles in the state.
What the Current Plate Looks Like
The plate displays North Dakota in bold capital letters on the left side. The slogan The Peace Garden State appears alongside the state name. The state seal and year of issue sit at the center of the plate. An image of Theodore Roosevelt National Park appears on the right side.
The Great Plains State Slogan
The "Great Plains State" slogan appears in a stencil-style font on the right side. This military-style font and the park imagery together reflect the state's unique identity.
Plate Size and Materials
The current plate measures 12 inches by 6 inches. This is the standard size used across most states. The plate is made from aluminum for durability. A black barcode appears along the bottom of the plate.
Why North Dakota Chose This Design
The Legendary series aimed to modernize the state's plate identity. Designers combined the historic Peace Garden State slogan with new visual elements. Theodore Roosevelt National Park represents the state's rugged landscape. This combination balances tradition with a fresh look.
Serial Format on Current Plates
Standard plates use a serial format of three numbers followed by three letters. This format allows for a large number of unique combinations. Personalized plates can differ from this standard format. Specialty plates may also use a distinct format tied to their design.
Standard Passenger Plates
Standard plates are issued automatically at the time of registration. They carry a randomly assigned combination under the current format. These plates meet every legal requirement without an added fee. Most North Dakota vehicles use this standard plate.
How Standard Plates Are Assigned
The DOT assigns each standard plate's combination sequentially. You cannot request a specific standard combination without applying for personalization instead. This keeps the standard issuance process fast and simple. Most drivers receive their plate within a short time after registration.
Personalized Plates on the Current Design
Personalized plates use the same Legendary background as standard plates. Drivers can request up to seven characters for their message. This option requires Department of Transportation approval. An application fee and annual renewal fee both apply.
Specialty Plates on the Current Design
Specialty plates apply the Legendary background alongside a cause-specific design element. These plates support various organizations and interests. Each specialty plate carries its own initial and annual fee. Availability can vary depending on the specific specialty category.
Disability Plates on the Current Design
Disability plates use the standard Legendary background with a distinct symbol. Eligible drivers must provide medical certification to qualify. These plates allow certain parking privileges under state law. Contact the DOT for the current disability plate application.
Motorcycle and Trailer Plates
Motorcycles and trailers use a smaller version of the current plate design. This format preserves the same core visual elements. Fees for these categories differ from standard passenger vehicle fees. Confirm your vehicle's specific plate requirements with the DOT.
Government and Municipal Plates
Government-owned vehicles use distinct plates marked for official use. These plates follow separate assignment rules within each agency. Personal vehicles cannot legally resemble an official government plate. Contact the DOT for questions about government vehicle plates.
Commercial Vehicle Plates
Commercial vehicles use plates tied to their specific weight classification. These plates still reflect the current Legendary design elements. Fee structures differ significantly from passenger vehicle plates. Contact the DOT for commercial-specific plate details.
Where to Get Your Current Plate
You can obtain your plates from several sources:
- Your local County Treasurer.
- The North Dakota DOT.
- The DOT's online portal for select transactions.
How Long the Current Design Has Been in Use
The current plate design has been active for roughly a decade. This is a typical lifespan compared to other states' plate cycles. North Dakota has not announced a specific date for its next redesign. Check the DOT website for any future design announcements.
Displaying Your Current Plate Correctly
Mount your plate securely in its designated location on the vehicle. Keep the plate free of covers or frames that block any character. North Dakota's weather can cause snow and ice buildup on plates. Clear your plate regularly so it stays fully readable.
Replacing a Current Plate
Request a replacement if your current plate is lost, stolen, or damaged. Contact your county treasurer or the DOT to start this process. A replacement fee typically applies to any plate type. Report a stolen plate to local police before requesting a replacement.
Comparing the Current Plate to the Previous Design
The Legendary series replaced an older design used before 2015. The previous plate lacked the Theodore Roosevelt National Park imagery. This update modernized the plate while keeping the Peace Garden State slogan. Collectors often compare both designs side by side.
Choosing the Right Current Plate for Your Vehicle
Most drivers use the standard Legendary plate issued at registration. Consider a personalized or specialty design if you want something distinct. Confirm your vehicle type qualifies for the category you want. Contact the DOT or your county treasurer with eligibility questions.
Find Your North Dakota Plate Today
North Dakota's current plate reflects the state's landscape and history. Choose a standard plate for simplicity or personalize your message. Specialty plates let you support a cause you care about. Contact the DOT to explore your specific options.
Whichever plate you choose, keep it mounted securely and clearly visible. This keeps you compliant and avoids unnecessary citations.