Snoopy plates are specialty plates that feature the Peanuts character, and availability depends entirely on which state you live in

A Snoopy license plate is a specialty or vanity plate that displays the cartoon character from the Peanuts comic strip. Not every state offers one. Some states have official Snoopy designs approved by the Peanuts estate, while others do not issue them at all. A few states allow you to create a custom plate with Snoopy imagery if you design it yourself and it meets their rules.

The process, cost, and design options vary widely. In states that do offer an official Snoopy plate, you typically order through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. Custom Snoopy plates follow your state's personalization rules — which usually means limits on the number of characters and restrictions on certain symbols or images.

Before you start, check whether your state actually offers a Snoopy plate. The fastest way is to visit your state DMV's website and search for "specialty plates" or "vanity plates," or call the DMV directly and ask if Snoopy plates are available.

Key Takeaways

  • Snoopy plates are only available in certain states, so you must first confirm your state offers them through your DMV website or by phone.
  • Official Snoopy plates issued by your state typically cost more than standard plates, with fees ranging from around $25 to $100 depending on the state.
  • If your state does not offer an official Snoopy plate, you may be able to order a custom plate with Snoopy imagery if it meets your state's design and character limits.
  • Renewal fees for specialty plates are often higher than standard plate renewals and must be paid each time your registration comes due.

Which states offer official Snoopy plates

Several states have issued official Snoopy license plates at various points, but the list changes as states retire old designs and introduce new ones. California, Illinois, and New York have offered Snoopy plates in the past. However, availability is not permanent — a state may stop issuing a particular design and replace it with something else.

The only reliable way to know if your state currently offers a Snoopy plate is to check your state DMV's specialty plate catalog. Most state DMVs maintain a searchable list or PDF showing all available designs. If you do not see Snoopy listed, contact the DMV directly by phone or through their website contact form and ask whether they have plans to reintroduce it.

Some states rotate specialty plates seasonally or by year, so even if Snoopy is not available right now, it may return later. Ask the DMV when they last offered it and whether it is scheduled to come back.

How to order an official Snoopy plate

If your state offers an official Snoopy plate, the ordering process is straightforward. Visit your state DMV's website and navigate to the specialty or vanity plates section. Most states let you order online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office.

You will need your vehicle registration number, driver's license, and payment method. The DMV will ask you to confirm your current address and vehicle information. Some states allow you to preview the plate design before you order, so you can see exactly what it will look like.

Processing time varies by state but typically takes two to four weeks. You will receive the new plate by mail. Keep your old plate until the new one arrives, then replace it on your vehicle. Some states require you to return the old plate to a DMV office; others let you keep it or dispose of it.

Cost of a Snoopy plate and renewal fees

An official Snoopy plate costs more than a standard plate. Initial fees typically range from $25 to $100 above the cost of a regular plate, depending on the state. Some states charge a one-time specialty plate fee, while others charge an annual surcharge.

Renewal fees are important to factor in. When your registration renews each year, you will pay a renewal fee for the specialty plate in addition to your standard registration renewal. This fee is usually $15 to $50 per year, though it varies by state. Over five years, the total cost of a Snoopy plate can be significantly higher than a standard plate.

Before you order, check your state DMV's fee schedule to see the exact initial cost and annual renewal amount. Some states also offer discounts for multi-year registrations, which can lower the per-year cost.

Custom Snoopy plates if your state does not offer an official one

If your state does not have an official Snoopy plate, you may still be able to order a custom plate with Snoopy imagery. Most states allow personalized plates with images, text, or both, as long as the design meets specific rules.

Your state's rules typically limit the number of characters (usually 6 to 8), restrict certain symbols, and prohibit images that are too small or unclear to read from a distance. Snoopy imagery must be clear and recognizable. Some states do not allow copyrighted characters at all, so check your state's policy before you design anything.

To create a custom Snoopy plate, you will use your state DMV's online plate designer tool (if available) or submit a design to the DMV for approval. The DMV will review it to make sure it meets their standards. If approved, you will pay the custom plate fee, which is usually higher than a standard plate. Processing can take four to eight weeks because the DMV reviews each design individually.

Replacing or updating a Snoopy plate

If your Snoopy plate becomes damaged, faded, or unreadable, you can request a replacement from your state DMV. Most states charge a small replacement fee, usually $5 to $15. You can order a replacement online, by mail, or in person.

If you want to change the design or personalization on your plate, you will need to order a new plate and pay the full specialty plate fee again. Your old plate becomes invalid once the new one is issued. Some states allow you to keep your old plate as a souvenir; others require you to return it.

If you move to a different state, you cannot transfer your Snoopy plate. You will need to register your vehicle in your new state and order a new plate that complies with that state's rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Snoopy plate on a motorcycle or commercial vehicle?

It depends on your state. Some states allow specialty plates only on passenger vehicles. Others permit them on motorcycles or light trucks. Check your state DMV's specialty plate rules to see which vehicle types are may be able to access. If you are unsure, call the DMV and describe your vehicle type.

What if I want a Snoopy plate but my state does not offer one?

You have two options: create a custom plate with Snoopy imagery if your state allows copyrighted characters, or wait to see if your state reintroduces an official Snoopy design in the future. Contact your state DMV to ask about both possibilities and to learn when Snoopy plates were last available.

Do I have to renew my Snoopy plate every year?

Yes. When your vehicle registration renews, you will pay a renewal fee for the specialty plate along with your standard registration renewal. The renewal fee is usually $15 to $50 per year. If you do not renew, your plate becomes invalid and you will need to switch to a standard plate.

Can I sell or transfer my Snoopy plate to someone else?

No. License plates are tied to your vehicle registration and driver's license. You cannot sell or transfer a plate to another person. If you no longer want your Snoopy plate, you can request a standard plate from your DMV, and the specialty plate becomes inactive.

How long does it take to receive a Snoopy plate after I order?

Official Snoopy plates typically arrive within two to four weeks. Custom plates take longer, usually four to eight weeks, because the DMV reviews each design for compliance. Processing times vary by state and can be slower during peak registration periods.