Dec 13, 2023 - News

Minnesota sales of blackout plates to start Jan. 1

Torey Van Oot

A black license plate with white letters — The new blackout plates. Image courtesy of the Department of Public Safety

Minnesota's new blackout license plates will be available for purchase come January.

Catch up fast: Earlier this year, the Legislature approved the sale of basic black plates with white letters. The new law legalizing the design takes effect Jan 1.

State of plates: They are popular in other states that offer them, including Iowa, Colorado, and Mississippi.

In Iowa, car owners ordered close to half a million blackout plates within months of their 2019 debut, per MPR news.

What to expect: Minnesotans can order the plate online on Jan. 1 or at registrars starting Jan. 2, a spokesperson with the Department of Public Safety's Driver & Vehicle Services division told Axios.

They'll cost more than a normal plate and require a $30 annual fee.

Of note: Lawmakers also approved new designs commemorating Lions Club International, missing and murdered Indigenous relatives, and pro sports teams.

Add Axios on Google

Minnesota sales of blackout plates to start Jan. 1

More Twin Cities stories