January 09, 2026
Lansing, Mich. - New Michigan license plates celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States’ independence went into production this week at Gus Harrison Correctional Facility in Adrian. The plates are part of the legacy line, a series of iconic, historic license plates modernized for use by Michiganders today. The semiquincentennial plate is inspired by the red, white and blue 1976 plates produced for the 200th anniversary.
The license plate factory at Gus Harrison is operated by Michigan State Industries (MSI), an entity within the Michigan Department of Corrections that has been providing work opportunities to prisoners since 1943. The operation produces all license plates used by Michigan drivers.
The new red, white, and blue license plates now in production will be part of the more than 1.5 million total plates produced annually by MSI in Adrian, MI. Orders for the new 250th birthday license plates opened on January 2, with more than 2,500 orders already placed by Michigan drivers.
“MSI has been efficiently and effectively producing quality license plates for Michiganders for decades. I’m excited to see production begin on this patriotic version to celebrate our country’s semiquincentennial” said Director Heidi E. Washington. “Not only does this work provide Michigan drivers with popular legacy plates but also provides tangible manufacturing skills to incarcerated individuals who are employed in the license plate operation, giving them opportunities for employment upon release.”
Those employed at the license plate operation develop manufacturing and work skills to help them prepare for employment after incarceration. Skills include machine operation, setting, maintenance, and repair; inventory, shipping, and receiving; forklift operation; silkscreen processing; and computer design. Skills training contribute to the department’s efforts to continue to reduce recidivism, which is currently at a historic low of 21 percent.
Michigan drivers can order the new legacy plate online at Michigan.gov/SOS, when purchasing a vehicle at a dealership, or by scheduling a visit to any Secretary of State office. MSI operates under the Correctional Industries Act of 1968 and is authorized to engage in manufacturing, sales and service to 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, governmental institutions, the federal government and tribal nations.
Roll of plates being imprinted before being cut.
Plates being trimmed.
Stamped prints awaiting tempering.
Plates categorized after production.
Completed plates ready to be packed for shipping.
NOTE: Video footage available upon request.
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