Now here’s a cool idea.
Michigan has brought back its retro license plate styles to help Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s goal to “fix the damn roads.”
The Michigan Legislature passed bills to allow the Secretary of State to reissue the classic blue-and-white plates from 1983-2007 as well as black-and-white plates from 1979-1983.
The legislation was led by state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, a Royal Oak Democrat who previously worked as a designer for the Hot Wheels toy brand at Mattel.
“Michiganders love our cars and they’re part of our identity and expression,” McMorrow said in a statement. “That was clear with the requests I heard to bring these throwback license plates back, and the excitement that’s come with finally making it happen.”
She added, “Expanding the retro plates available to drivers is a way to add a custom touch and harken back to other eras, all while generating revenue and improving our roads to ensure everyone has a smoother ride.”
The plates are available to purchase on the Michigan Secretary of State website or at your local branch. They cost an additional $50 road fund fee plus a one-time $5 fee, with a $10 road fund fee collected each renewal.
The idea was borrowed from California, when Los Angeles Assemblyman and self-described “car guy” Mike Gatto wanted to make it easier for auto enthusiasts to restore their cars to a complete period look. His 2015 legislation brought back California’s black license plates from the 1960s, charging $50 for the plates.
In 2021, Michigan brought back its “Water-Winter Wonderland” plates first issued in 1965, which proved to be a hit among motorists.
Next year, the state plans to bring back Michigan’s red, white, and blue bicentennial plate from 1976-1978 to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S.
