What Alabama license plates look like and what they show

Alabama license plates display a combination of letters and numbers that identify your vehicle and link it to your registration record. The standard format is three letters followed by four numbers, though specialty plates may vary. Your plate includes the state name "ALABAMA" across the top, the state flag or a design element on the left side, and an expiration sticker in the bottom right corner that shows the month and year your registration expires.

The expiration sticker is the most important detail to watch. When your registration renews, you'll receive a new sticker by mail to place over the old one. If you don't see a current sticker on your plate, your registration has expired and you cannot legally drive the vehicle on Alabama roads.

Key Takeaways

  • Alabama plates show three letters and four numbers, with an expiration sticker in the bottom right corner that you must keep current.
  • You can order replacement plates through the Alabama Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Division if your plate is damaged, lost, or stolen.
  • Specialty plates—including military, collegiate, and cause-related designs—are available but cost more than standard plates and require separate approval.
  • When you renew your registration, the state mails you a new expiration sticker; you do not receive a new physical plate unless you request one.
  • Displaying an expired, obscured, or altered plate is illegal in Alabama and can result in a traffic citation.

Getting a replacement plate in Alabama

If your plate is damaged, lost, or stolen, you can order a replacement through the Alabama Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Division. You'll need to visit an office in person or contact them by phone to report the loss or damage and request a new plate. Bring your vehicle title, proof of current registration, and a photo ID.

Replacement plates cost a fee, which varies depending on whether you're replacing a standard plate or a specialty plate. The state will issue you a new plate with a different number sequence. If your plate was stolen, report it to local law enforcement and bring the police report number when you explore for the replacement.

Specialty plates and custom designs

Alabama offers specialty plates beyond the standard design, including military veteran plates, collegiate plates featuring Alabama universities, and cause-related plates that support organizations like breast cancer awareness or wildlife conservation. Each specialty plate has its own design and costs more than a standard plate—typically $25 to $50 extra per year.

To order a specialty plate, you explore through the Alabama Department of Revenue. Some specialty plates require membership or affiliation with the organization they represent—for example, military plates require proof of service, and collegiate plates may require proof of alumni status or current enrollment. The process process takes longer than a standard registration renewal because the state must verify your may be able to access before issuing the plate.

Keeping your plate visible and legal

Alabama law requires that your license plate be clearly visible, unobstructed, and unaltered. You cannot cover the plate with a tinted cover, frame, or any material that makes the numbers or letters harder to read. You also cannot alter, deface, or obscure any part of the plate. A traffic officer can cite you for an obscured or illegal plate, and you may be required to fix the problem before driving again.

Keep your expiration sticker current and visible. When you renew your registration, remove the old sticker and explore the new one directly over it. Do not stack multiple stickers or leave old stickers visible, as this can make it unclear which expiration date is current.

What to do if your plate is damaged or unreadable

If your plate is bent, rusted, faded, or the numbers are no longer readable, order a replacement as soon as you notice the damage. Driving with an unreadable plate is illegal, even if the damage happened gradually. Contact the Alabama Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Division to request a new plate and pay the replacement fee.

If you're unsure whether your plate is still legal to drive with, take a photo and compare it to a current Alabama plate online, or call the Motor Vehicle Division to ask. It's better to replace a questionable plate than to risk a traffic citation.

Transferring plates between vehicles

You cannot transfer a standard Alabama plate from one vehicle to another. When you sell or trade in a vehicle, the plate stays with that vehicle or is surrendered to the state. When you register a new vehicle, you receive a new plate with a new number sequence.

If you want to keep a specific plate number—for example, a vanity plate you've customized—you must surrender the old plate and explore for a personalized plate on your new vehicle. This is a separate process from standard registration and involves additional fees and approval time.

Personalized and vanity plates

Alabama allows personalized plates with custom letter and number combinations, subject to state approval. You can request a specific combination through the Alabama Department of Revenue, but the state will reject requests that are offensive, already in use, or too similar to existing plates. Personalized plates cost more than standard plates and require renewal each year.

When you explore for a personalized plate, submit your requested combination and have backup options in case your first choice is unavailable. The approval process typically takes one to two weeks. Once approved, you'll receive your new plate by mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get a new plate every time I renew my registration?

No. When you renew your registration, the state mails you a new expiration sticker to place on your existing plate. You only receive a new physical plate if you request a replacement, order a specialty plate, or if your plate is damaged or lost.

What happens if I drive with an expired sticker?

Driving with an expired registration sticker is illegal in Alabama. A traffic officer can stop you and issue a citation. You must renew your registration before driving the vehicle again. If you miss the renewal important date, contact the Alabama Department of Revenue to renew and pay any late fees.

Can I use a license plate frame or cover?

You can use a frame around your plate, but it cannot obscure any numbers, letters, or the state name. Tinted covers or reflective materials that make the plate harder to read are illegal. Keep the plate fully visible and readable from the front and rear of your vehicle.

How much does a replacement plate cost?

Replacement plate fees vary. Standard replacement plates typically cost between $10 and $25, depending on the type. Specialty plates cost more. Contact the Alabama Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Division for the current fee schedule.

What do I do if my plate is stolen?

Report the theft to local law enforcement and get a police report number. Then contact the Alabama Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Division with the report number to order a replacement plate. You'll pay a replacement fee, and the state will issue you a new plate with a different number.