Michigan Revives a Classic License Plate for America’s 250th Birthday

Michigan is bringing back one of its most recognizable license plates, and if you grew up seeing these on the road, this one may leave you feeling a little nostalgic.

Starting today, drivers will be able to put the classic red, white, and blue Michigan license plate back on their cars. The design is a modern reissue of the state’s beloved 1976 bicentennial plate, released to help mark the United States’ 250th anniversary.

Yes, semiquincentennial is a mouthful, but the plate itself is refreshingly familiar.

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced the return this week, calling it a way to honor both the country’s founding and Michigan’s long history of showing up when it matters. The original version of this plate is kind of a big deal, too. Back in the 1970s, it earned Michigan its first ever “Plate of the Year” award from the Automobile License Plate Collectors Association.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation in 2023 that allowed Michigan to revive this design, along with two other legacy plates inspired by older styles from the 1970s and 1980s. Those include the white on blue plate and the white on black plate, which have been popular since their return.

If you want one of the legacy plates, including the red, white, and blue option, there is a one time $55 fee. That includes a $5 plate service fee and a $50 contribution to the Michigan Transportation Fund, which helps pay for road construction and repairs across the state. After that, renewals cost $10 per year.

Ordering opens today, and you have the full year to grab one. You can order online through the Secretary of State website, get one when purchasing a vehicle through a dealership, or schedule an in person visit at any Secretary of State office.

If you want more details or want to check out the full legacy plate lineup, you can find everything you need at Michigan.gov/LegacyPlates