How Much Does It Cost to Get a License Plate in Connecticut in 2025?
Factors That Influence the Total License Plate Cost in Connecticut
The cost of obtaining a license plate in Connecticut is influenced by several factors, including the type of vehicle, the type of license plate, and any additional services or customizations requested. Below are the primary factors that contribute to the total cost:
- Vehicle Type: Different fees apply depending on whether the vehicle is a passenger car, commercial vehicle, motorcycle, or other types of vehicles.
- License Plate Type: Standard plates, specialty plates, and personalized plates each have different fee structures.
- Registration Period: The length of the registration period can affect the total cost, with options typically available for one or two years.
- Additional Fees: Administrative fees, such as those for processing or mailing, may also apply.
Specialty License Plates in Connecticut
Connecticut offers a variety of specialty license plates that allow vehicle owners to support causes or organizations, or to display their affiliations. These plates often come with additional fees:
- Initial Fee: Typically ranges from $50 to $100, depending on the specific plate.
- Annual Renewal Fee: An additional fee, usually between $15 and $50, is added to the standard registration renewal fee.
- Examples of Specialty Plates:
- Environmental Conservation Plates
- Collegiate Plates
- Military and Veteran Plates
- Organizational Plates
Personalized License Plates in Connecticut
Personalized license plates allow vehicle owners to create a unique combination of letters and numbers. The fees associated with personalized plates are as follows:
- Initial Fee: $94 for the issuance of a personalized plate.
- Annual Renewal Fee: An additional $15 on top of the standard registration renewal fee.
- Character Limitations: Personalized plates can have up to seven characters for passenger vehicles and up to six for motorcycles.
Connecticut License Plate Renewal Fee
Renewing a license plate in Connecticut involves paying a renewal fee, which varies based on the type of vehicle and plate:
- Passenger Vehicles: Standard renewal fee is $80 for a two-year registration period.
- Commercial Vehicles: Fees vary based on the weight and type of the vehicle.
- Motorcycles: Standard renewal fee is $42 for a two-year registration period.
- Additional Fees: Late renewal incurs a $10 penalty.
Connecticut License Plate Replacements Fee
In the event that a license plate is lost, stolen, or damaged, a replacement can be obtained for a fee:
- Replacement Fee: $25 for a standard plate replacement.
- Specialty and Personalized Plates: Additional fees may apply if the plate is a specialty or personalized type.
- Required Documentation: Proof of registration and a completed application form are necessary to process the replacement.
How Much Is the Tag Transfer Fee in Connecticut
When transferring a license plate from one vehicle to another, a tag transfer fee is applicable:
- Transfer Fee: $21 for transferring a plate to a new vehicle.
- Eligibility: The transfer is only allowed between vehicles owned by the same individual or entity.
- Additional Considerations: Any difference in registration fees between the old and new vehicle must be paid.
Exemptions and Discounts
Certain exemptions and discounts are available for specific groups or under certain conditions:
- Veterans and Active Military: May qualify for reduced fees or exemptions on certain specialty plates.
- Senior Citizens: Discounts may be available for individuals over a certain age.
- Low-Income Individuals: Some programs offer reduced fees for qualifying low-income residents.
- Electric and Hybrid Vehicles: May be eligible for reduced registration fees as part of environmental initiatives.
These exemptions and discounts are subject to eligibility criteria and require appropriate documentation to be submitted at the time of application or renewal.