A car can typically qualify for antique license plates once it reaches a specific age, which is most commonly 25 years old in the majority of U.S. states. However, this age requirement is not universal; it varies by state, ranging from 20 to 30 years. The primary benefit of antique plates is often a reduction in registration fees and the prestige of officially recognizing your vehicle's historical status. The biggest catch is that these plates usually come with driving restrictions, limiting the vehicle's use to events like car shows, parades, and occasional recreational driving. The process involves applying through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and providing proof of the vehicle's age and condition.
| State | Minimum Age for Antique Plates | Common Usage Restrictions | Key Requirement / Note |
|---|
| Alabama | 30 years | Parades, exhibitions, club activities | Vehicle must be primarily collector's item |
| California | 25 years | "Occasional" transportation, exhibitions, parades | Requires a "Year of Manufacture" plate option |
| Florida | 30 years | Exhibitions, club activities, parades, testing | Limited to 1,000 miles per year for non-show use |
| New York | 25 years | Car shows, exhibitions, club activities, repairs | Vehicle must be unaltered from original design |
| Texas | 25 years | Exhibitions, club activities, parades, other functions | Must be primarily a collector's item |
| Pennsylvania | 25 years | "Occasional" transportation and hobby activities | A notarized statement of ownership is required |
| Michigan | 26 years | Car club activities, exhibitions, tours, parades | Vehicle must be owned solely as a collector's item |
| Colorado | 32 years | Limited to 4,500 miles per year | Must pass a specific safety inspection |
| Virginia | 25 years | Car shows, club activities, parades, testing | Proof of insurance for a "historic vehicle" is needed |
| Ohio | 25 years | Exhibitions, club activities, parades | Cannot be used for general daily transportation |
Before you apply, the most critical step is to check your state's DMV website for the exact rules. The application process usually requires the vehicle's current title, a completed application form, and often photographs of the vehicle. Some states may also require a verification of the vehicle identification number (VIN). Remember, violating the usage restrictions can result in fines or the revocation of the antique plate status, so it's essential to understand the limits that come with the benefits.
