Vehicle registration plates of New Jersey

Last updated
New Jersey
New Jersey license plate 2014.jpg
Current Garden State plate, with screened serial
Current series
SloganGarden State
Size12 in × 6 in
30 cm × 15 cm
MaterialAluminum
Serial formatA12-BCD
Introduced1992 (1992)
(current version introduced April 2014)
Availability
Issued by New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
History
First issuedJune 1, 1908 (1908-06-01)
(pre-state plates from 1903 through May 31, 1908)

The U.S. state of New Jersey first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1903. Registrants provided their own license plates for display until 1908, when the state began to issue plates. [1]

Contents

As of 2024, plates are issued by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Front and rear plates are required for most classes of vehicles, while only rear plates are required for motorcycles and trailers.

Validation

In 1999 the state tried re-validating plates with stickers, but that scheme ended in 2004 with stickers issued to expire in 2005. Some non-passenger plates stickers extended to 2010 with stickers issued to expire in 2011 (2014 for trailer plates only). Since then passenger and non-passenger plates have been re-validated with just the registration card issued to the driver.

Passenger baseplates

1908 to 1958

In 1956, the United States, Canada, and Mexico came to an agreement with the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, the Automobile Manufacturers Association and the National Safety Council that standardized the size for license plates for vehicles (except those for motorcycles) at 6 inches (15 cm) in height by 12 inches (30 cm) in width, with standardized mounting holes. [2] The first New Jersey license plate that complied with these standards was a modification of the 1952 plate, introduced in 1956.

No slogans were used on passenger plates during the period covered by this subsection.

ImageFirst issuedDesignSerial formatSerials issuedNotes
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1908Cream-colored serial digits on individual dark blue flat metal panels inserted into metal frame; "N.J.", lead seal and "08" on single panel inserted at right1234538001 to approximately 50500, plus reissues of pre-state serials
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1909White serial on black porcelain plate; "N.J", aluminum seal and "09" at right123451 to approximately 24000
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1910Black serial on bright orange porcelain plate; "N.J", aluminum seal and "10" at left123451 to approximately 30000
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1911Red serial on gray porcelain plate; "N.J", aluminum seal and "11" at right123451 to approximately 38000
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1912Yellow serial on blue porcelain plate; "N.J", aluminum seal and "12" at left123451 to approximately 44000
1913 New Jersey passenger license plate.jpg 1913Red serial on white porcelain plate; "N.J", aluminum seal and "13" at right123451 to approximately 50000
1914-NJ-License-Plate.jpg 1914White serial on red porcelain plate; "N.J", aluminum seal and "14" at left123451 to approximately 61000
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1915White serial on green porcelain plate; "N.J", aluminum seal and "15" at right123451 to approximately 78000
1916-NJ-License-Plate.JPG 1916Embossed white serial on brown plate; "NJ 16" at left123451 to 99999
A1234A1 to approximately A6800
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1917Embossed white serial on blue plate; "NJ 17" at right123451 to 99999
A1234A, B, N and O series; X1 to approximately X1900
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1918Embossed blue serial on white plate; "N.J.-1918" centered at top1234561 to approximately 149500
1919 New Jersey passenger license plate.jpg 1919Embossed white serial on gray plate; "N.J.−1919" centered at top1234561 to approximately 175500
New Jersey surviving 1920 license plate.jpg 1920Embossed white serial on brick red plate; "N.J.−1920" centered at top1234561 to approximately 212500
1921 New Jersey license plate.jpg 1921Embossed white serial on forest green plate; "N.J.−1921" centered at top1234561 to approximately 247500
1922 New Jersey Vehicle Registration Plate.jpg 1922Embossed white serial on black plate; "N.J.−1922" centered at top1234561 to approximately 258500
1923 New Jersey Vehicle Registration Plate.jpg 1923Embossed orange serial on black plate; "N.J.—23" centered at top1234561 to approximately 331500
1924 New Jersey Vehicle Registration Plate.jpg 1924Embossed white serial on red plate; "N.J.−1924" centered at top1234561 to approximately 400000
New Jersey 1925 license plate.jpg 1925Embossed silver serial on midnight blue plate; "N.J.—25" centered at top1234561 to approximately 460500
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1926Embossed white serial on orange plate; "N.J.−1926" centered at topA12345
1E2345
County-codedEssex County used E in the second position following E99999; this practice continued through 1930. [3]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1927Embossed white serial on green plate; "N.J.−27." centered at topA12345
1E2345
O/N12345
County-codedSerifs added to letters in serials for better readability. O/N code replaced Q code in Ocean County.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1928Embossed white serial on light blue plate; "N.J.−1928" centered at topA12345
1E2345
O/N12345
County-coded
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1929Embossed white serial on black plate; "N.J.−29." centered at topA12345
1E2345
O/N12345
County-coded
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1930Embossed white serial on gray plate; "N.J.−1930" centered at topA12345
1E2345
O/N12345
County-coded
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1931Embossed white serial on red plate; "N.J.−31." centered at topA12345
1/E12345
O/N12345
County-coded1/E1001 onwards issued in Essex County following E99999; this practice continued through 1938.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1932Embossed white serial on black plate; "N.J.−1932." centered at topA12345
1/E12345
O/N12345
County-coded
1933 NJ passenger plate.jpg 1933Embossed orange serial on black plate; "N.J.−'33." centered at topA12345
1/E12345
O/N12345
County-coded
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1934Embossed light green serial on black plate; "N.J.−1934" centered at topA12345
1/E12345
O/N12345
County-coded
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1935Embossed silver serial on black plate; "N.J.−'35." centered at topA12345
1/E12345
O/N12345
County-coded
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1936Embossed bright orange serial on black plate; "N.J.−1936" centered at topA12345
1/E12345
O/N12345
County-coded
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1937Embossed light green serial on black plate; "N.J.−'37." centered at topA12345
1/E12345
O/N12345
County-coded
1938 New Jersey license plate.jpg 1938Embossed silver serial on black plate; "N.J.−1938" centered at topA12345
1/B1234
1/E12345
O/N12345
County-coded1/B1001 onwards issued in Bergen County following B99999.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1939Embossed bright orange serial on black plate; vertical "NJ 39" at rightA/B123
A/B12A
County-coded (A/B)For each two-letter code, the numbers 100 to 999 were issued, followed by 10A through 99Z (omitting G, I, O and Q). [3]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1940Embossed light green serial on black plate; vertical "NJ 40" at rightA/B123
A/B12A
County-coded (A/B)
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1941Embossed white serial on black plate; "N.J. '41" roughly centered at bottomA/B123
A/B12A
County-coded (A/B)
1942 NJ license plate.jpg

Blank License Plate Shape.svg

1942Embossed yellow serial on black plate; "N.J. 1942" roughly centered at bottomA/B123
A/B12A
County-coded (A/B)Revalidated for 1943 with white-on-black tabs, due to metal conservation for World War II.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1944Embossed black serial on straw-colored plate; "N.J. '44" roughly centered at bottomA/B123
A/B12A
County-coded (A/B)Only rear plates issued due to ongoing metal conservation. Issuance of front plates resumed in 1947.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1945Embossed blue serial on straw-colored plate; "N.J. 1945" at bottom, offset to rightA/B123
A/B12A
County-coded (A/B)
New Jersey License Plate 1946.jpg 1946Embossed black serial on straw-colored plate; "N.J. '46" centered at topA/B123
A/B12A
County-coded (A/B)
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1947Embossed blue serial on straw-colored plate; "N.J. 1947" at bottom, offset to rightA/B123
A/B12A
County-coded (A/B)
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1948Embossed black serial on straw-colored plate; "N.J. '48" centered at topA/B123
A/B12A
County-coded (A/B)
1949 New Jersey license plate.JPG 1949Embossed straw-colored serial on black plate; "N.J. 1949" at bottom, offset to rightA/B123
A/B12A
County-coded (A/B)
1950 New Jersey license plate.jpg 1950As 1948 base, but with "N.J. '50" at topA/B123
A/B12A
County-coded (A/B)
New Jersey 1951 license plate - Number NW 71 N.jpg 1951As 1949 base, but with "N.J. 1951" at bottomA/B123
A/B12A
County-coded (A/B)
1954 New Jersey license plate.jpg
1956 New Jersey passenger license plate.jpg
1952Embossed orange lettering on black plate with border line; "N. 52 J." embossed at bottom.A/B 123
A/B 12A
A/B A12
A/B 1A2
A/B 1234
Coded by county (A/B)Revalidated for 1953, 1954 (shown in photo), 1955 and 1956 (also shown in photo) with tabs (Passenger) 1957, 1958, 1959, and 1960 with tabs (Non-Passenger).
Blank License Plate Shape.svg 1957As above but changed to 6" x 12" size, and with stacked "NJ" embossed at rightA/B 1234Coded by county (A/B)Revalidated for 1958 with windshield stickers. The older 1952 plates (by now dated "56") were also validated with windshield stickers.

1959 to present

All passenger plates from 1959 until present are still valid, provided they have been continuously registered. It is also possible to have a serial from an older plate remade on a plate of a newer design. [4]

ImageFirst issuedDesignSloganSerial formatSerials issuedNotes
1959 New Jersey.jpg 1959Embossed black serial on non-reflective buff plate; "N.J." centered at top"GARDEN STATE" centered at bottomABC-123AAA-100 to RHZ-999Letter Q not used in serials, and 'D', 'O', 'T' and 'X' series reserved for Dealer, Omnibus, Trailer and Commercial plates respectively. [5] This practice continued until late 1992.
1970 New Jersey license plate.jpg 1969As above, but reflectiveRIA-100 to SZZ-999Experimental plates.
1959 New Jersey.jpg 1970As above, but non-reflective as from 1959–69UAA-100 to YZZ-999'Z' series initially reserved for Commercial plates; issued 1985 on blue base (below). [5]
1973 New Jersey license plate.jpg 1973123-ABC100-AAA to 999-HBZ
1977 New Jersey License Plate.jpg 1977As above, but with "NEW JERSEY" centered at top100-HCA to 999-KZZFirst use of the full state name on passenger plates.
1979 New Jersey license plate.jpg 1979Embossed buff serial with state-shaped separator on non-reflective medium blue plate; "NEW JERSEY" centered at top"GARDEN STATE" centered at bottom123-ABC100-LAA to 999-ZZZ
1985 New Jersey license plate.jpg 1985ABC-123ZAA-100 to ZZZ-999
New Jersey license plate, 1986.png 1985ABC-12DAAA-10A to HZZ-99ZI and O not used as suffix letters in this serial format (in addition to Q). [3]
1992 New Jersey sample license plate.jpg late 1992Embossed black serial on reflective yellow to gradient white plate; "New Jersey" screened in black centered at top; black outlines for registration stickers at top corners"Garden State" screened in black centered at bottomABC1234AAA1000 to ADJ9999Letters I, O and Q not used in serials; this practice continues today. [3]
1997 New Jersey.jpg spring 1993As above, but with state-shaped separator added to serialAB-123CBA-100A to ZY-999Z'D', 'H', 'T' and 'X' series reserved for Dealer, Handicapped, Trailer and Commercial plates respectively, and 'S' series for optional Shore to Please plate. [6] 'A' series used on Apportioned plates from 1996 onwards.
NJ 2007.jpg May 1999ABC-12DJAA-10A to SZZ-99Z;
UAA-10A to VZT-99Z
'T' series reserved for Trailer plates. Between 2001 and 2004, plates used Avery reflective sheeting instead of 3M reflective sheeting.
New Jersey 2008.jpg mid 2007As above, but without black outlines at top cornersVZU-10A to WZZ-99Z;
YAA-10A to ZZZ-99Z
'X' series reserved for Commercial and Farmer plates.
New Jersey 2011 license plate.jpg July 2010As above, but with security threads added to center of plateA12-BCDA10-AAA to T99-EEK [7]
F92-PEE.JPG April 2014As above, but with serial and separator screened rather than embossedA10-EFF to Z99-SZZ;
A10-UAA to L34-UKX. (as of May 2, 2024) [8]
'T' series reserved for Trailer plates.

Courtesy plates

New Jersey courtesy license plate New Jersey SVM 2.jpg
New Jersey courtesy license plate

Courtesy plates have been issued to individuals with political connections since 1920. The current serial formats on these plates consist of three letters followed or preceded by a number between 1 and 20. On standard courtesy plates the first letter is a county code, the second letter is the first initial of the vehicle owner's name, and the third letter is the initial of the last name of the vehicle owner. Courtesy plates may also be personalized, with all three letters making up the owner's initials.

Courtesy plates can be used on several types of vehicles, including cars, motorcycles and historic vehicles. They must be approved by a NJ State Senator from the applicant's election district prior to being submitted to the MVC. [9] The staff for the applicant's senator must also get approval from the state senator from the county that corresponds to the first letter on the plate being requested. The letter Q cannot be used on these plates, and D, O, T, and X cannot be used as the first letter. [3]

Courtesy plate county codes 1959 to present

LetterCounty
A Atlantic
B Bergen
C Camden
E Essex
F Ocean
G Gloucester
H Hudson
I Hunterdon
J Salem
K Middlesex
L Morris
M Monmouth
N Burlington
P Passaic
R Mercer
S Somerset
U Union
V Sussex
W Warren
Y Cumberland
Z Cape May

Current plate types

All bases of all classes of plates from 1959 to present are still valid for display in New Jersey. [10]

Non-Passenger

ImageTypeFirst issuedCurrent serial formatPrevious serial formatsNotes
Blank License Plate Shape.svg AmbulanceJuly 1, 2014OA-1234Ambulances used Commercial and No Fee plates prior to July 2014.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg ApportionedJune 1996AB-123CIssued to trucks and buses weighing at least 13 tons. Serials became screened at AS-100A. Current highest serial seen: AY-447Z (on February 15, 2024). [11]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg AutocycleOctober 2017A1B2CIssued to three-wheeled motorcycles.
NJ commercial license plate XCJ-S77.jpg Commercial1918XBC-D12XBC-123
XB-1234
X-12345
X1B-234
XBC-12D
XB-12CD
XBC1234
X12-B34
X-1234B
XB-123C
Serials XYA-100 through XZZ-999 and XYA-10A through XZZ-99Z reserved for Farmer plates. Current serial format began mid-2012; serials became screened at XCW-A10. Current highest serial seen: XPS-Z94 (on March 25, 2024). [11] Vanity variants also issued.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Commercial Motorcycle1962XB123Infrequently issued.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Commuter Van1982CV12345CV-1234Issued to airport vans and ride-share vehicles.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Dealer Temporary1953DL-123 12
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Dealer Transporterc. 1970DTT-12 12
12 12DTT
Issued to new vehicles being transported from manufacturers to dealers.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Driving School2019DS-1234
Nj new.jpg Equipment In Transit194912-1-ABA-12-1
AB-12-1
Issued to construction vehicles, in groups of five (each plate in the group is distinguished by the small number in its serial, between 1 and 5). Issued annually through 1962.
NJ 2004 Farm Use.jpg Farm Use1941GB-12CF-1234
F-B123
F-B12C
FB-12C
FB12345
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Handicapped19771234H/BH1234
1234H
H/B1234
International Symbol of Access at left. Serials became screened at around H/Z9000. Current highest serial seen: 8118H/K (on January 28, 2024). [11] Vanity variants also issued.
NJ 2000 Historic.jpg Historic196412345QQQQ-A123
123A-QQ
QQ-1234
1234-QQ
QQ12345
Issued to vehicles that are at least 25 years old and are used for exhibition purposes. Serials became screened at around 29000QQ. Current highest serial seen: 74139QQ (on December 23, 2023). [11] Vanity and Courtesy variants also issued, with serial preceded by stacked Q/Q prefix.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Historic Motorcycle1976Q1234Serials became screened at around Q7000. Current highest serial seen: Q9893 (on May 24, 2023). [11]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Hotel Bus2014OH-1234Issued to small buses transporting passengers to and from hotels.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg In Transit Empty197712-ZBZB-12Issued to trucks and trailers that are empty when transported. Serials became screened at 10-ZG. Current highest serial seen: 67-ZJ (on October 9, 2022). [11]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg JitneyJuly 1, 2014OJ-1234Issued to small buses for urban transport. These buses used Omnibus plates prior to July 2014.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Limousinelate 2000OL1234AReplaced Livery plate. Serials began at OL1000D and became screened at OL1000K. Current highest serial seen: OL9255K (on January 29, 2024). [11] Vanity variants also issued, with serial of owner's choice preceded by stacked O/L prefix.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Mobility Assistance VehicleJuly 1, 2014OM-1234Issued to vehicles transporting handicapped individuals.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Moped19831A2B3Current highest serial seen: 3G2F2 (on February 11, 2024). [11]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Motorcycle19121ABC2AB123
123AB
A123B
A1234
1234A
Issued annually through 1960. Current serial format began 2009; serials became screened at around 2ZFA1. Current highest serial seen: 5SLU1 (on March 30, 2024). [11] Vanity and Courtesy variants also issued.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Motorcycle Dealerc. 192612-1DBDB12-1
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Motorcycle No Fee19521234A
Blank License Plate Shape.svg New Car Dealer1960DBC-12 12Series DAA through DKZ used on these plates.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg No Fee1932NF12345NF-C123Issued to vehicles owned by nonprofit organizations. Serials became screened at around NF36600. Current highest serial seen: NF39970 (on December 25, 2023). [11] Courtesy variants also issued.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Non-Conventional Dealerc. 1965DN-123 12
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Omnibus1922OBC1234OBC-123Current serial format began 1992 at OXV1000; serials became screened at around OYB5000. Current highest serial seen: OYB8797 (on March 19, 2024). [11]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Omnibus 2August 2014O2-1234Issued to buses owned by private transportation companies.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg ParatransitJuly 1, 2014OP-123AOP-1234Issued to small buses providing non-emergency medical transport. These buses used Omnibus, Commercial and No Fee plates prior to July 2014. Current highest serial seen: OP-221F (on November 27, 2023). [11]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Passenger Vanity1959variesvariesAlcoholic vanity plates are banned.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg School Vehicle I1977S1-1234S1-123A
123A-S1
1234AS1
S1-A123
A123-S1
Issued to full-size school buses (seating 17 or more passengers). Serials became screened at K100-S1. Current highest serial seen: S1-2656 (on February 13, 2024). [11]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg School Vehicle II1977A123-S2S2-123A
123A-S2
1234AS2
S2-A123
Issued to small school buses (seating under 17 passengers). Serials became screened at S2-U100. Current highest serial seen: F101-S2 (on February 1, 2024). [11]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Street Rod1982R1234Issued to modified antique automobiles manufactured before 1949.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg TaxicabJuly 1, 2014OT-123AOT-1234Taxicabs used Omnibus plates prior to July 2014. Current highest serial seen: OT-583J (on November 14, 2023). [11]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg TemporaryApril 1, 2012A123456F, H, J, L, M, R, T, V, W, X, Z and C series of serials issued.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Temporary MotorcycleJune 2015A123456Same design as regular Temporary plates, but smaller. J and L series of serials issued.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Temporary Non-ResidentApril 1, 2012123456AN, P, R and T series of serials issued.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Tractor19181234-TBTR-1234
TR-C123
TS-C123
Infrequently issued.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Trailer1915A12-TCDTBC-123
TB-123C
123-TBC
T123-BC
TBC1234
T1B-234
T12-B3C
TBC-12D
Serials became screened at TNN-10A. Current serial format began early 2023. Current highest serial seen: U93-TAU (on December 19, 2023). [11]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Used Car Dealer196012-DBC 12DBC-12 12
12 12DBC
Series DLA through DSZ and DUA through DZZ used on these plates.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Vehicle Converterc. 1973DTC-12 12
12 12DTC
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Vehicle Manufacturer1908DTM-12 12
12 12DTM
DTN-12 12
12 12DTN

Discontinued

ImageTypeFirst issuedFinal serial formatPrevious serial formatsNotes
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Boat19191234
A123
"BL NJ" and last two digits of year embossed at right. Last issued 1962; stickers used for boat registration since at least 1973.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Boat Dealerby 1959D12−1
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Boat No Feeby 1953N/F12
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Clam/Oyster Permit19351234C-1234
O-1234
Issued to vehicles used for the purpose of clam and oyster digging. All-numeric serials used from 1936 onwards. Discontinued sometime after 1938.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Constructor195112345Issued mainly to construction dump trucks. Discontinued sometime after 1979.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Gasoline License192812345Replaced by Motor Fuel Dealer in 1932 (below).
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Licensed Coal/Fuel Truck19371234Supplementary plates. Last issued 1973, but revalidated until at least 1980.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Licensed Poultry Truckby 1948123Supplementary plates. Last issued 1973.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Livery1979OL1234AOL-1234
1234-OL
OL-123A
Livery vehicles used their own plates from 1917 to 1921, then Omnibus plates from 1922 until 1977 when the PUC LIM plate was introduced (below). Vanity variants also issued, with serial of owner's choice preceded by stacked O/L prefix. Replaced by Limousine in late 2000.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Motor Fuel Dealer193212345Motorcycle-sized from 1936. Last issued 1942.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Motor Fuel Transport193612345Motorcycle-sized plates issued to tanker trucks hauling gasoline or other motor fuel. Issued annually through 1972. Last issued 2010.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg NJ Transit Bus19821234-NJDiscontinued in the late 1990s; regular Omnibus plates issued to NJ Transit buses since.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Outdoor Advertising193112345Used on signs and billboards. Discontinued sometime after 1956.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Outdoor Advertising No Feeby 1956N/F123
Blank License Plate Shape.svg PUC LIM1977OL-1234PUC LIM stood for "Public Utilities Commission - Limousine". Replaced by Livery in 1979 (above).
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Regulated Bulk Hauler19811234Issued to semi-trailers. Vertical "NJ" and "DMV" embossed at left and right respectively. Replaced by Apportioned in 1996.

Governmental

ImageTypeFirst issuedCurrent serial formatPrevious serial formatsNotes
New Jersey 1993 Assembly license plate - AA 0.jpg Assembly by 1936A/B 1Plates usually feature state seals either side of the number. The letters at the left are the Assembly member's initials.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Atlantic City Expressway 1979ACE 12Used for all tollbooths of the Atlantic City Expressway.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Cabinet(numeric)
Blank License Plate Shape.svg County Government1926CG1-CDECG-C123
CG-123C
A123-CG
CG12345
Current serial format began 2012; serials became screened at approximately CG-1AYA. Current highest serial seen: CG-9CYV (on March 10, 2024). [11]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Department of Transportation 1959TD12345TD-123
TD-1234
"STATE GOVT" legend. Current serial format began c. 2004; serials became screened at approximately TD17000.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Former Assembly
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Former Senator
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Governor by 19351Plates usually feature state seals either side of the number.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Highway Authority1959HA-A123No longer issued, as the Garden State Parkway is now under the purview of the Turnpike Authority.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg MayorA/B 1 C/DThe first two letters are a code signifying the municipality, and the last two letters are the mayor's initials.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Mayor Emeritusc. 2000M/E1234New Jersey Conference of Mayors logo at left. Vanity and Courtesy variants also issued.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Municipal Government192612345MGMG-C123
MG-123C
MG-1234
123MG-C
MG-12CD
MG12345
Current serial format began late 2013; serials became screened at approximately 14500MG. Current highest serial seen: 52865MG (on December 6, 2023). [11]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Municipal No Fee
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Municipal Government Motorcycle
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Senate by 1933ABLetters indicate senator's initials.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg SheriffA 1 A/BThe letter on the left indicates the county, while the letters on the right are the initials of the Sheriff for that county.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg State Government1926SG12345SG-C123
SG-C12D
Current serial format began 1993; serials became screened at approximately SG35600. Current highest serial seen: SG42199 (on November 9, 2023). [11]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg State Policec. 1964SPA123DSP-A123Used for all New Jersey State Police vehicle. State Police also has TP for vehicles assigned to turnpike patrol
Blank License Plate Shape.svg State Senate Majority Leader
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Turnpike Authority 1959TPA1234TP-A123Used for NJ turnpike maintenance vehicles and New Jersey State Police vehicles assigned to turnpike patrol
Blank License Plate Shape.svg U.S. Congressc. 1952
Blank License Plate Shape.svg U.S. Senatec. 19521 or 2 (depending on seniority), flanked by state seals

Professional

ImageTypeFirst issuedCurrent serial formatPrevious serial formatsNotes
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Chiropractor 19771 DC 234Vanity variants also issued.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Dentist1977DDS 123
DMD 123
Vanity variants also issued.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg EMT 1993E/M1234 Star of Life at left.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Farmer1933XYC-12D, XZC-12DXYC-123, XZC-123Current highest serial seen: XZY-42U (on December 1, 2023). [11]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Firefighter19771A-B2A1-2B
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Firemen's Benevolent Association1990F/F1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg First Aider1981F1234Cross at left.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Fraternal Order of Police19891234F/PF/P1234F/P9999 issued late 2019, followed by 1000F/P onwards.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg New Jersey Press1979NJP-123
Blank License Plate Shape.svg New York Press19771234NYPNYP-123
123-NYP
Current highest serial seen: 2618NYP (on November 12, 2023). [11]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Newark Firefighter2001F/D1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Operating Engineer2005O/E1234
MD2775 New Jersey physician's license plate.jpg Physician1951MD-1234
DO-1234
MD-C123Vanity variants also issued.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Podiatrist 1979DPM-123Vanity variants also issued.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Policemen's Benevolent Association19911234P/BP/B1234P/B9999 issued late 2018, followed by 1000P/B onwards.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Society of Professional Engineers1994P/E1234

Organizational

ImageTypeFirst issuedCurrent serial formatPrevious serial formatsNotes
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Amateur Radio (call sign)
Blank License Plate Shape.svg FreemasonMB1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Honor LegionPD1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Knights of Columbus (Columbianism)KC1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Rotary InternationalRI1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Square DancerSD1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg TeamstersIB1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Telephone PioneerPA1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg United BowhuntersUB1234

Military and Veteran

ImageTypeFirst issuedCurrent serial formatPrevious serial formatsNotes
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Air Force AuxiliaryCP1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Air Force ReserveCF1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Air Force RetiredRA1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Air GuardNGA 123The letter appearing after the N/G is the first letter of the plate owner's last name.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg AirborneAB1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg American Legion AL1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Amvets AV1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Army GuardNGA 123The letter appearing after the N/G is the first letter of the plate owner's last name.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Army ReserveAR1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Coast Guard AuxiliaryCA1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Coast Guard ReserveCR1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Combat VeteranCI1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Combat WoundedPH1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Disabled American VeteranWD1234DAV-123
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Disabled Veteran DV1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Gold Star Family2011MH1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg LeatherneckML1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Merchant MarineMM1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Navy CrossNC1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Navy LakehurstLK1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Navy LeagueNL1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Navy ReserveNR1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Pearl Harbor '411234PH
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Prisoner of WarP1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Silver Star1234SS
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Silent ServiceSS1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Tin Can SailorsDD1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg U.S. Army RetiredGI1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Veterans of Foreign WarsWV1234VFW-123
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Vietnam VeteranVV1234

College and University Optionals

ImageTypeFirst issuedCurrent serial formatPrevious serial formatsNotes
Blank License Plate Shape.svg New Jersey Institute of TechnologyJT1234"Highlanders"
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Notre DameND1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Penn State AlumniPS1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg RutgersRU1234, 1234RUNew graphic features Rutgers' red "R" and numbers-first format.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Seton HallSH1234Base revised in 2007 – rim is no longer embossed and has updated Pirates logo
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Stevens TechST1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Temple UniversityUN1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg University of DelawareUD1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg University of MichiganUM1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg West PointWP1234

Specialty

ImageTypeFirst issuedCurrent serial formatPrevious serial formatsNotes
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Alpha Kappa Alpha October 2017IV1234Features the Ivy leaf.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Animal Friendly1995IM1234, IM123A, IM12AB (ended at ...99CZ)No longer issued but still valid
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Animal Friendly (Mutts)2002IMBA12IM12EAPlate features characters from Patrick McDonnell's comic strip
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Battleship1996BB12ABBB1234, 1234BBFeatures an image of battleship USS New Jersey
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Baymen's HeritageFebruary 26, 1998 [12] BH12ABBH1234, 1234BHSports an image of the Tucker's Island Lighthouse
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Center for Food Action2001CF1234No longer being issued (see below)
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Choose Life2011CF1234Uses same prefix as previously issued Center for Food Action plates, of which less than 100 were registered.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Conquer Cancer 1998CCAB12CC1234, CC12AB, A123CC
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Conserve WildlifeWoodpecker 1993CW1234, CW123A, CW12ABNo longer issued but still valid.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Conserve Wildlife – Bald Eagle June 26, 1997A123WCWC123A
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Deborah Heart & Lung20001234DHDH1234
Discover NJ History March 26, 19971234ZZZZ1234Features painting of a house in Lambertville, New Jersey by renowned New Jersey artist Harry Devlin. Proceeds go to the Historic License Plate Preservation Fund to save priceless historic buildings, artifacts and documents.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Liberty State Park 19991234LSLS1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Meadowlands 2001MC1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg New Jersey AgricultureJanuary 29, 2001GS12BA,

XY123AA (farmer) XA123AA (commercial) FX123AA (farm use)

GS1234, 1234GS
Blank License Plate Shape.svg NPDF Safe CopPF1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Olympic Spirit19951234USUS1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Organ Donors Save Lives20021234DLDL1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Pinelands1998PL12ABPL1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Price of Honor2002LEAB12LE1234, 1234LE, LE12AB, BA12LE
Shore to PleaseNovember 1993SA12ABSA1234,SA123A, SC123A, SE123A, SF123A, SJ123A, SK123A, SL123A, SN123A, SR123A, SU123A
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Treasure Our Trees1998WE123A, XA123WE (commercial)WE1234
Blank License Plate Shape.svg United We Stand2004UW12ABUW1234, 1234UW

Sports

The New Jersey sports plates were introduced in the fall of 2010. They share a common serial format – R/M12AB – and were the first NJ plates to be issued with screened, rather than embossed, serials.

ImageTypeNotes
Blank License Plate Shape.svg NASCAR Plates feature the number and signature of one of the following eight drivers: Dale Earnhardt, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Danica Patrick, Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, Kevin Harvick, Martin Truex Jr. and Tony Stewart. There is also a Dale Earnhardt Hall of Fame commemorative plate, a Ford Racing plate and a generic NASCAR Fan plate.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg NBA Plates feature the logo of either the New York Knicks or the Philadelphia 76ers. [13] There was also a New Jersey Nets plate, which was discontinued when the Nets moved to Brooklyn in 2012.
Blank License Plate Shape.svg NHL Plates feature the logo of either the New Jersey Devils or the Philadelphia Flyers. [14]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg MLB Plates feature the logo of either the New York Yankees, the New York Mets or the Philadelphia Phillies. [15]
Blank License Plate Shape.svg NFL Plates feature a graphic of the helmet of either the New York Jets, the New York Giants or the Philadelphia Eagles. [16]

Other

ImageTypeFirst issuedNotes
Blank License Plate Shape.svg Beach Buggy Associationearly 1970sIssued to members of the New Jersey Beach Buggy Association for member identification; the serial number on each plate is the owner's membership number. Current plate design is dark red on white with the slogan "Fighting For Beach Access Since 1954".

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle license plates of the United States</span> American vehicle license plates

In the United States, vehicle registration plates, known as license plates, are issued by a department of motor vehicles, an agency of the state or territorial government, or in the case of the District of Columbia, the district government. Some Native American tribes also issue plates. The U.S. federal government issues plates only for its own vehicle fleet and for vehicles owned by foreign diplomats. Until the 1980s, diplomatic plates were issued by the state in which the consulate or embassy was located.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Kansas</span> Kansas vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of Kansas first required its residents to register their vehicles and display license plates in 1913. Plates are currently issued by the Kansas Department of Revenue through its Division of Vehicles and only rear plates have been required since 1956.

The U.S. state of Indiana first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1905. Registrants provided their own license plates for display until July 1, 1913, when the state began to issue plates.

In the United States, the appearance of license plates is frequently chosen to contain symbols, colors, or slogans associated with the issuing jurisdiction, which are the 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, the five inhabited U.S. territories, and Native American tribes, each of which independently registers motor vehicles. Regular-issue license plates for passenger vehicles typically have six or seven characters, with vanity plates having up to eight characters in a few states.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Nebraska</span> Nebraska vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of Nebraska first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1905. Registrants provided their own license plates for display until 1915, when the state began to issue plates.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of New York</span> New York vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of New York was the first to require its residents to register their motor vehicles, in 1901. Registrants provided their own license plates for display, featuring their initials until 1903 and numbers thereafter, until the state began to issue plates in 1910.

The U.S. state of Missouri first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1907. Registrants provided their own license plates for display until 1911, when the state began to issue plates.

The U.S. state of New Mexico first required its residents to register their motor vehicles and display license plates in 1912. As of 2023, plates are issued by the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department through its Motor Vehicle Division. Only rear plates have been required since 1961.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Colorado</span> Colorado vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of Colorado first required its residents to register their motor vehicles and display license plates in 1913. As of 2024, plates are issued by the Colorado Department of Revenue through its Division of Motor Vehicles. Front and rear plates are required for most classes of vehicles, while only rear plates are required for motorcycles and trailers.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Florida</span> Florida vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of Florida first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1905. Registrants provided their own license plates for display until 1918, when the state began to issue plates, becoming the last of the contiguous 48 states to do so.

The U.S. state of Illinois first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1907. Registrants provided their own license plates for display until 1911, when the state began to issue plates. As of 2023, plates are issued by the Illinois Secretary of State.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Alaska</span> Alaska vehicle license plates

Alaska first required its residents to register their motor vehicles and display license plates in 1921, while still an organized incorporated territory of the United States. It was admitted to the Union as the 49th state in January 1959.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Louisiana</span> Louisiana vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of Louisiana first required its residents to register their motor vehicles and display license plates in 1915. As of 2024, plates are issued by the Public Safety Services division of the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections, through the division's Office of Motor Vehicles. Only rear plates have been required since 1952.

The U.S. state of Ohio first required its residents to register their motor vehicles and display license plates in 1908, although several cities within the state issued their own license plates from as early as 1902.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Pennsylvania</span> Pennsylvania vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of Pennsylvania first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1903. Registrants provided their own license plates for display until 1906, when the state began to issue plates.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Alberta</span>

The Canadian province of Alberta first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1906. Registrants provided their own licence plates for display until 1912, when the province began to issue plates. Only rear plates have been required since 1992.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Ontario</span> Licence plates of Ontario, Canada

The Canadian province of Ontario first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1903. Registrants provided their own licence plates for display until 1911, when the province began to issue plates. Plates are currently issued by the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO). The location of plates is specified by the Highway Traffic Act and Regulation 628 under the Act.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Manitoba</span>

The Canadian province of Manitoba first required its residents to register their motor vehicles and display licence plates in 1911. As of 2022, plates are issued by Manitoba Public Insurance. Front and rear plates are required for most classes of vehicles, while only rear plates are required for motorcycles and trailers.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of California</span> California vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of California first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1905. Registrants provided their own license plates for display until 1914, when the state began to issue plates. Plates are currently issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vehicle registration plates of Connecticut</span> Connecticut vehicle license plates

The U.S. state of Connecticut first required its residents to register their motor vehicles in 1903. Registrants provided their own license plates for display until 1905, when the state began to issue plates. Since then, Connecticut has used a variety of license plate designs, and has issued different designs for passenger, non-passenger, and, more recently, optional plate types that often require an additional fee. As of 2024, plates are issued by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles.

References

  1. "Old New Jersey License Plates". LeatherLicensePlates.com. Retrieved August 20, 2017.
  2. Garrish, Christopher (October 2016). "Reconsidering the Standard Plate Size". Plates. Vol. 62, no. 5. Automobile License Plate Collectors Association.
  3. 1 2 3 4 5 Tanner, Eric N. "New Jersey Passenger License Plates". allaboutlicenseplates.com. Retrieved November 11, 2020.
  4. Moini, Jim. "Remakes (Replacement)". Jim Moini's License Plates. Retrieved July 8, 2019.
  5. 1 2 Moini, Jim. "Passenger Plates 1959 - 1973". Jim Moini's License Plates. Retrieved July 2, 2019.
  6. Moini, Jim. "Passenger Plates 1992 - 1999". Jim Moini's License Plates. Retrieved July 2, 2019.
  7. Moini, Jim. "Passenger Plates 2010 - 2014". Jim Moini's License Plates. Retrieved September 27, 2021.
  8. "New Jersey License Plates". www.licenseplates.cc. Retrieved 2023-06-24.
  9. "Information about Personalized License Plates" (PDF). New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Retrieved February 14, 2013.
  10. Jim Moini's License Plates
  11. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Moini, Jim. "NJ Highs". Jim Moini's License Plates. Retrieved March 31, 2024.
  12. "Baymen's Heritage License Plate To Be Unveiled". New Jersey Department of Transportation. February 24, 1998. Retrieved August 15, 2016.
  13. NBA License Plates, New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Retrieved 2010-11-21.
  14. NHL License Plates, New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Retrieved 2012-08-14.
  15. MLB License Plates, New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Retrieved 2010-11-27.
  16. NFL License Plates, New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Retrieved 2010-12-22.