MAY 16, 2006

Standard plate ending its 24-year reign in Michigan

Michigan will discontinue its standard blue license plate and adopt a plate with improved features under legislation awaiting the governor's signature, Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land announced today.

The "Old Blue" plate design, as it is known, is used by 5.6 million motorists. It has been on Michigan vehicles since July 1982 and will cease being issued on Jan. 1, 2007. After that, the state will reissue new plates as they expire.

A new plate design has not been finalized but is expected to be similar to recently issued plates which have a fully reflective white background. There will be no extra cost to residents for a replacement plate.

"The Old Blue plate has had a good run in Michigan but it is time to move to a design that uses modern technology and improves visibility," said Land. "This change will also allow the state to use the same type of material for all of its license plates, which makes production more efficient."

The legislative package includes House Bills 5607 and 5979, sponsored by Rep. Philip LaJoy, R-Canton, and House Bill 4437, sponsored by Rep. Scott Hummel, R-DeWitt. The legislation would provide the necessary funds to the Department of State to cover expenses incurred in re-issuing the estimated 6 million new plates needed.

Land expects compliance with vehicle registration laws to improve as a result of the move to a new standard plate. After the reissue period is complete, those who are driving on expired license plates will be easy to spot by law enforcement officers. It is estimated that the additional revenue to the state generated from increased compliance would total at least $15 million, which would more than offset the costs involved.

LaJoy said the new license plates will be good for the state.

"From a public safety perspective, having license plates that are easier to read at night will assist law enforcement in keeping our streets safe," LaJoy said. "That is good news for our citizens."

Michigan is the last state still using the glass-beads manufacturing process by which the blue and white plates are created. During production, tiny crushed glass beads with the consistency of sand are sprinkled on the wet white paint to give the characters on the plate limited reflectivity. Law enforcement groups and others favor the modern design material, which is a highly reflective off-white graphic sheeting that is more visible at night.

For more information about available license plates or other department services, visit www.michigan.gov/sos.