License Plate Categories in Vermont

In Vermont, driving through maple-lined backroads or pulling into a small-town farmer’s market is just part of everyday life. But no two Vermonters live the same way, and your license plate is a great way to show the world who you are, what you love, and what you stand for.

Whether you’re taking your Subaru up to the slopes, hauling lumber in your pickup, or commuting into Burlington in your EV, Vermont offers a wide range of personalized and specialty license plates to help you add personality to your ride. 

Here are the most popular license plate categories in Vermont:

• Standard and Personalized Plates
• Military and Veteran Plates
• Charity and Cause-Based Plates
• Organizational and Service Plates
• Antique and Specialty Vehicle Plates
  

In this blog, the team at Seat Cover Solutions walks you through the best license plate ideas in the Green Mountain State and how to take your custom look even further with upgrades that keep your interior road-trip ready, mud-season proof, and truly you.

Best License Plate Options in Vermont

Vermont license plates are simple, green, and instantly recognizable, but what you put on them can be entirely your own. From custom vanity tags to meaningful specialty designs, there are plenty of ways to make your license plate stand out.

Standard and Personalized License Plates in Vermont

Vermont's standard and personalized plates are your opportunity to showcase your personality on a simple, classic canvas. Whether you want to tell a story, share an inside joke, or express yourself in a fun way, these license plates let you do it. Plus, you can keep it personal with custom messages that stand out wherever you go.

1. Standard Personalized Plate – Great for names, phrases, or inside jokes up to 7 characters allowed.
2. Classic Green Plate – Stick to the classic Vermont vibe with a custom message.
3. Scenic Vermont Plate – For lovers of mountain views and country drives.
4. Disabled Personalized Plate – Accessible and customized with a personal message.
5. Motorcycle Vanity Plate – Even your two-wheeler deserves a signature.
6. EV Vanity Plate – Drive green and show it proudly.
7. Low-Digit Plate – Simple, rare, and prestigious in local circles.
8. First-Responder Vanity Plate – Serve the state and stand out.
9. Custom Number Plate – Minimalistic flair for drivers who like things neat.
10. One-Letter Plate – Clean and bold, if your initial is available.
11. Hobby Plate (Snowboarder/Skier) – Showcase your slope-side lifestyle.
12. Pet-Inspired Vanity Plate – For the dog lover who never drives solo.
13. Nickname Plate – Add your Vermont nickname or trail name.
14. Farm Plate – Personalize your plate while repping your local roots.
15. Seasonal Humor Plate – Think “MUDSZN” or “FALL4VT” because every season’s a vibe.

Military and Veteran License Plates in Vermont

For many, a military or veteran plate is a powerful way to honor service, legacy, and community pride. Vermont offers a variety of license plates to salute those who have served, from those who fought in World War II to modern-day veterans. Wear your pride on your vehicle with a plate that speaks to your commitment to our country.

1. U.S. Veteran Plate – Clean design for veterans of any branch.
2. Purple Heart Plate – For those who’ve served with sacrifice and courage.
3. Gold Star Family Plate – A deeply meaningful tribute for grieving families.
4. Army Plate – For proud soldiers, past and present.
5. Navy Plate – Represent your time on the water even in a landlocked state.
6. Air Force Plate – Fly high from Champlain to the White River Valley.
7. Marine Corps Plate – For Marines who carry pride wherever they go.
8. Coast Guard Plate – Salute service from sea to Vermont’s shores.
9. Disabled Veteran Plate – Combine accessibility with recognition.
10. National Guard Plate – Show dual service to state and country.
11. WWII Veteran Plate – For Vermonters from the Greatest Generation.
12. Korean War Veteran Plate – Honor decades of bravery.
13. Vietnam Veteran Plate – Ride with quiet strength and respect.
14. Iraq War Veteran Plate – A nod to modern service.
15. Afghanistan Veteran Plate – A badge of post-9/11 commitment.

Charity and Cause-Based License Plates in Vermont

What better way to drive your message home than with a charity or cause-based plate? These license plates support a wide range of Vermont-based causes, from healthcare to education, environmental sustainability, and animal welfare. Every mile you drive becomes a reminder that you’re helping make Vermont and the world a better place.

1. Donate Life Plate – Raise awareness for organ donation in Vermont.
2. Building Bright Futures Plate – Support Vermont children and families.
3. Conservation Plate – Show love for Vermont’s parks, rivers, and wild spaces.
4. Animal Welfare Plate – A must-have for pet rescuers and foster families.
5. Autism Awareness Plate – Help promote understanding statewide.
6. Breast Cancer Awareness Plate – Drive with purpose and pink pride.
7. Green Up Vermont Plate – Perfect for those who clean, recycle, and hike.
8. Habitat for Humanity Plate – Your drive helps build homes and hope.
9. Support Education Plate – Every mile helps Vermont’s schools.
10. Vermont Foodbank Plate – Give back to the community one meal at a time.
11. Mental Health Awareness Plate – Break the stigma with your bumper.
12. LGBTQ+ Pride Plate – Celebrate identity and visibility on every route.
13. Women's Health Plate – Support services and access for all Vermonters.
14. Veteran Support Fund Plate – Combine service and community strength.
15. Special Olympics Vermont Plate – Champion everyday athletes.

Organizational and Service License Plates in Vermont

If you belong to a community, club, or service organization, these organizational and service plates help showcase that affiliation. Show the world what matters to you, whether it’s through a proud display of your professional service, a faith-based group, or a longstanding commitment to community support.

1. Freemasons Plate – A mark of brotherhood and tradition.
2. American Legion Plate – Pride in both military and civic service.
3. Rotary Club Plate – Ride with “Service Above Self.”
4. Lions Club International Plate – For members with a drive to serve.
5. Knights of Columbus Plate – Community, faith, and family all in one.
6. National Ski Patrol Plate – A nod to mountain rescue heroes.
7. Vermont Volunteer Firefighter Plate – For those who run toward danger.
8. EMS Plate – Recognize lifesavers across the state.
9. Police Association Plate – For sworn and retired officers.
10. Teacher Recognition Plate – Proudly support Vermont educators.
11. State Worker Plate – For employees helping the state run smoothly.
12. Environmental Advocates Plate – Ride for cleaner air and water.
13. Faith-Based Organization Plate – Share your values subtly.
14. Agricultural Association Plate – A tribute to the state’s farming legacy.
15. Local Business Plate – Add a custom touch to your commercial fleet.

Antique and Specialty Vehicle Plates in Vermont

For those who appreciate history, craftsmanship, and the thrill of the road, antique and specialty vehicle plates are a perfect way to show off your pride in classic vehicles. Whether you’re restoring a vintage car, showing off a street rod, or driving a snowmobile, these plates ensure that your vehicle gets the attention it deserves.

1. Antique Vehicle Plate – For cars 25+ years old that still shine.
2. Classic Car Plate – Great for weekend cruisers and car show gems.
3. Street Rod Plate – Hot rods get their own kind of cool.
4. Replica Plate – Modern builds with old-school spirit.
5. Farm Use Plate – Still hauling hay or just want the look? Either works.
6. Motorcycle Antique Plate – Two wheels and vintage pride.
7. Show Vehicle Plate – For exhibition-only beauties.
8. Limited Use Plate – Ideal for parades, holidays, or town events.
9. Custom Truck Plate – For lifted rigs and showpieces.
10. YOM (Year of Manufacture) Plate – Match your plate to your ride’s birth year.
11. Snowmobile Plate – Vermont winters? Say less.
12. All-Terrain Vehicle Plate – For backcountry explorers.
13. Vintage Trailer Plate – Airstreams deserve their own flair.
14. Collector Vehicle Plate – For the truly obsessed.
15. Green Mountain Special Edition Plate – When you want local flavor on the back of your ride.

Across Vermont, your vehicle speaks to the state’s natural beauty and diverse terrain. From the winding back roads in the Green Mountains to the tranquil lakeshores, your ride is built for Vermont’s landscapes.

• In Burlington, Stowe, and Montpelier, compact cars and electric vehicles are favored. The Subaru Outback, Toyota Prius, and Tesla Model 3 are popular for navigating the city streets and the mountain roads that lead to ski resorts.
• In Middlebury, Brattleboro, and Randolph, rugged crossovers and trucks rule the roads. The Ford Escape, Jeep Cherokee, and Toyota Tacoma are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring Vermont’s many trails.
• In Rutland, Bennington, and Barre, families and farming communities opt for spacious SUVs and trucks. The Chevy Suburban, Honda CR-V, and GMC Sierra offer ample room for everything from hauling gear to long scenic drives across the state.

Whether you're cruising along Lake Champlain, heading to a maple sugar farm, or exploring Vermont's charming small towns, your vehicle shows your connection to the state's outdoors and your love for local craftsmanship.

How to Apply for a Personalized Plate in Vermont

If you're ready to showcase your individuality with a personalized license plate in Vermont, the process is simple and straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to secure your own custom plate, along with information on fees and timelines to help you get started:

1. Choose Your Plate Style

Start by visiting the Vermont DMV website to browse the available designs. You can explore various standard, personalized, and specialty plate options to find one that fits your style. Whether you want a classic green-and-white plate or something unique, there’s plenty to choose from.

Make sure to review any design restrictions that may apply to your preferred license plate style. The DMV site will show you images and detailed descriptions of each option.

2. Pick Your Message

Next, decide what you want your license plate to say. Vermont allows up to 7 characters for custom messages, and these can include a combination of letters, numbers, and limited special characters. However, there are certain restrictions:

• Symbols: Vermont prohibits most symbols (e.g., smiley faces, hearts).
• Letters: Certain letters like “I” or “O” are restricted on single-letter plates due to readability concerns.

3. Check Availability

Once you’ve decided on your message, it’s time to check if it’s available. Use the Vermont DMV’s online system to verify whether your custom text is available. This step ensures that your desired plate is unique and hasn't already been taken by another Vermont driver.

4. Complete the Application

When you’re ready to proceed, fill out the appropriate application form:

• Form VD-017 for vanity plates (personalized messages)
• Use the relevant form for specialty plates (military, environmental, etc.)

Applications can be submitted online through the DMV website or in person at a local DMV office.

5. Pay the Fees

Once your application is complete, you'll need to pay the required fees. Fees for personalized plates in Vermont vary by plate type. Below is a detailed breakdown of the approximate fees for different types of plates:

Plate Type	Initial Fee	Annual Renewal Fee
Personalized Plate	$48	$48
Charity/Organization Plate	$25 – $100	Varies, may include donation
Military Plate	Often waived	No annual fee
Antique Plate	$10 – $20	Usually one-time

6. Install and Enjoy

Once your personalized plate is approved, Vermont DMV will send it to you, usually within 30 days. When it arrives, simply install it on your vehicle according to state regulations. Be sure to secure it properly to ensure visibility.

Once your customized plate is mounted, you're all set to drive in style, showing off your custom design with pride!

Vehicle Upgrades Vermont Drivers Love

Once you’ve customized your license plate, make sure the inside of your car matches your lifestyle. From muddy boots in mud season to slushy gear in January, Vermont drivers need more than just a stylish ride, they need a clean and protected one. That’s where Seat Cover Solutions comes in. Our waterproof seat covers are made for hiking trips, ski runs, and school pickups in all weather. For pet owners, our pet seat protectors handle paws, fur, and the occasional “oops.” And for year-round grip, our anti-slip steering wheel covers make even icy mornings more bearable.

Conclusion

Vermont driving is an experience in itself, with scenic backroads, rugged weather, and a deep sense of local pride. A personalized license plate gives you a chance to express who you are, what you stand for, and your unique connection to the state. Whether you’re honoring your military service, showcasing your personal style, or supporting a cause, there’s a license plate in Vermont that fits your personality perfectly.

Choosing a custom license plate is just the first step in making your car a true reflection of you. From selecting the perfect design to checking availability, the process is easy and fun. Once you've personalized your license plate, make sure your car's interior is just as unique. 

Shop at Seat Cover Solutions today to find the perfect seat covers that match your custom ride!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I customize any Vermont plate?

Not all specialty plates can be personalized, but many of them can. Use the DMV’s availability tool to check if the plate design you’re interested in allows for customization.

Can I get a custom plate for my motorcycle or trailer?

Yes, Vermont offers vanity plates for motorcycles and certain trailers, allowing you to add a personal touch to all your vehicles.

Are antique plates exempt from annual renewal?

Most antique and limited-use plates are one-time registrations, meaning you won’t have to renew them annually like other license plates.

Do specialty plate fees include a donation?

Yes, charity and cause-based license plates often support nonprofit programs. Some fees go directly to supporting local causes, such as environmental conservation, education, or healthcare.

How long does it take to receive my new license plate?

Vanity and specialty plates typically arrive within 30 days after your application is approved. Be sure to check with the DMV if you haven’t received it by then.

Can I request a specific plate number?

While you can select your custom message, you cannot choose a specific plate number. The number is assigned by the DMV.

What if my custom plate gets rejected?

If your personalized message doesn’t meet Vermont’s standards (e.g., inappropriate or offensive content), the DMV will notify you. You can then choose an alternative message and resubmit your request.

Can I use a personalized plate for my business vehicle?

Yes, you can apply for vanity plates for commercial vehicles, provided they meet the DMV’s guidelines. Just make sure to review the business vehicle registration rules before applying.

Are there any discounts for military personnel on specialty plates?

Yes, many military plates are offered at a discounted rate for veterans and active-duty members. In some cases, the annual fee may be waived.