Michigan offers several license plate choices. Many drivers keep things basic
Michigan has added new license plate styles in recent years, bringing back throwback plates from the 1960s — and letting Michiganders celebrate their favorite colleges.
Despite the variety of options, the most popular license plate among Michiganders remains the "Pure Michigan plate," with 794,971 plates issued in 2024, according to the Secretary of State's office — outselling the other three state-themed options combined.
The plate, originally introduced in 2013, is Michigan's standard license plate. Specialty plates typically cost more to place on a vehicle.
There are about 8.6 million vehicles registered in Michigan, the Department of Transportation said.
Here's a breakdown of each license plate in Michigan and their costs:
Mackinac Bridge
The Mackinac Bridge plate showcases one of Michigan's most recognized landmarks. The bridge is featured in the center of the plate, with a yellow sunset creating a silhouette. Drivers requested 200,996 Mackinac bridge plates in 2024.
Water-Winter Wonderland
The Water-Winter Wonderland plate allows Michigan drivers to celebrate the state's seasons. Drivers requested 348,964 plates in 2024.
First issued in 1965, and re-issued at the beginning of 2021, it has a maize-and-blue design, similar to University of Michigan's colors.
Water Wonderland
The Water Wonderland plate, originally issued in 1954, celebrates Michigan's rich heritage of tourism, lakes and waterways.
The plate with the green-and white-design draws comparisons to Michigan State University's colors. Drivers requested 149,511 of these plates in 2024.
How much do specialty plates cost?
The specialty plates cost an additional $5. The new throwback plates already had brought in more than $6 million in additional revenue for the state by mid-2024.
How much do personalized plates cost?
In addition to the fee for a new plate, and the additional fee for one of the specialty plates, there is a $30 fee to request a new personalized plate, or a $15 fee to renew a personalized plate.
How much do other types of plates cost?
The state offers options for special-cause plates. They cost $35 each, plus other fees, with $25 going to the organization.
There are 15 different university plates available, 30 military or veterans plates and six for special organizations.
Jalen Williams is a trending reporter at the Detroit Free Press. Contact him at jawilliams1@freepress.com.
Lansing State Journal reporter Matt Mencarini contributed reporting.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: 'Pure Michigan' is state's most popular license plate, officials say
