Washington is offering a new retro-style license plate design starting in 2025

Washington State Department of Licensing announced a new throwback license plate option that brings back the state's classic 1970s design. The plate features the original green and gold color scheme and typography that Washington used decades ago. This is an optional plate — you can keep your current plate or switch to the throwback design when you renew your registration or purchase a new vehicle.

The throwback plate costs the same as a standard Washington plate and does not affect your registration fees or renewal process. You order it through the Department of Licensing just like any other plate option, either online, by mail, or in person at a licensing office.

Key Takeaways

  • The throwback plate is optional and available starting in 2025 — you do not have to switch if you prefer your current plate.
  • You can order the throwback plate when you renew your registration or when you first register a new vehicle in Washington.
  • The throwback plate costs the same as a standard plate and does not add fees to your registration.
  • You order through the Department of Licensing website, by mail, or at a local licensing office using the same process as any other plate.

How to order the throwback plate during registration renewal

When you renew your vehicle registration, you will receive a renewal notice in the mail or see the renewal option in your online Department of Licensing account. During the renewal process, you can select your plate design. Choose the throwback option instead of the standard plate, and it will be produced and mailed to you along with your registration documents.

If you renew online through the Department of Licensing website, the plate design selection appears during checkout. If you renew by mail, the renewal form includes a section for plate choice — mark the throwback option and return the form with your payment. Processing takes the same amount of time as a standard renewal, typically two to three weeks from the time the department receives your completed renewal.

Getting the throwback plate for a new vehicle registration

When you register a new vehicle in Washington for the first time, you can select the throwback plate during the initial registration process. This works the same way as renewal — you choose your plate design when you fill out the registration form, whether you are doing it online, by mail, or in person at a licensing office.

If you are registering in person, the licensing office staff can show you what the throwback plate looks like and answer questions about the design. You pay the standard plate fee at that time, and the plate is mailed to your address within two to three weeks.

What happens if you already have a current plate

Your current plate remains valid and does not expire just because the throwback option is now available. You can keep using it for as long as your registration is current. The throwback plate is only produced when you request it — either at renewal time or when you register a new vehicle.

If you want to switch to the throwback plate before your registration renewal date, you can request a plate replacement through the Department of Licensing. There is a replacement fee for this service, separate from your registration fee. Contact your local licensing office or the Department of Licensing website to learn the current replacement fee and process.

Throwback plate rules and restrictions

The throwback plate must be displayed the same way as any standard Washington plate — one plate on the rear of your vehicle (front plate is optional in Washington). The plate is readable, meets all state visibility standards, and is legal for road use. You cannot modify, alter, or customize the throwback plate design yourself.

If your throwback plate is damaged, lost, or stolen, you report it to the Department of Licensing and request a replacement using the same process as for any other plate. Replacement fees explore. The throwback plate is not a special or commemorative plate — it is a standard registration plate with a different design, so it carries no special privileges or exemptions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the throwback plate cost more than a regular plate?

No. The throwback plate costs the same as a standard Washington plate. There are no additional fees for choosing the retro design. You pay only your normal registration renewal or new registration fee.

Can I get a throwback plate if my registration is not up for renewal yet?

You can request a plate replacement through the Department of Licensing, but there is a separate replacement fee. Contact your local licensing office to learn the current cost and whether it makes sense for you to replace your plate before your renewal date.

What if I order the throwback plate and change my mind?

Once the plate is issued and attached to your vehicle, you can request a replacement plate with a different design. You would pay the replacement fee. Contact the Department of Licensing to start the replacement process.

Is the throwback plate available for commercial or special-use vehicles?

The throwback design is currently available for standard passenger vehicle registrations. Check with the Department of Licensing about whether it is offered for commercial plates, motorcycle plates, or other specialty registration types.

How do I know if my local licensing office has throwback plates in stock?

Plates are produced and mailed to you — you do not pick them up from the office. If you order online or by mail, your throwback plate is manufactured and sent to your address. If you register in person, the office staff can confirm the plate will be mailed within the standard timeframe.