New year, new plates? Data shows big boost for some Minnesota specialty license plates

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    Big bump in blackout platesThe number of blackout plates in Minnesota nearly doubled last year.

Specialty license plates have become a popular way for drivers to support a cause or even express their interests, and in Minnesota, there is no shortage of options.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety offers more than 120 different specialized plates — some with only a handful of supporters (if even that) but others with thousands.

Blackout plates, which the state introduced in 2024, have quickly become popular, nearly doubling in sales last year. In 2025, more than 470,000 blackout plates were registered in Minnesota, nearly double the 2024 count, and trailing only standard Minnesota plates and utility trailer plates.

However, several other specialty plates also saw increased sales last year. See the full chart, with data from Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS), below.

Specialty plate costs vary, and the required annual contributions typically support a related cause. For instance, a Vikings plate supports the Vikings Foundation, while a critical habitat loon plate supports the Department of Natural Resources. Fees from blackout plates go to DVS.

Minnesotans can change their license plates at any time by visiting a deputy registrar office or, for some requests, going online.

The post New year, new plates? Data shows big boost for some Minnesota specialty license plates first appeared on KSTP.com 5 Eyewitness News.