If your vehicle has a previous UW plate design, we encourage you to make the switch. And for those who do not yet have a purple UW plate, don’t wait until your tab renewal – put some purple pride on your ride today.

With $28 from each plate going to support UW students, it’s a great way to give back. In fact, past UW license plate sales already have raised $1.2 million for the UW General Scholarship Fund.

The new purple UW license plate is now available at any Washington state Department of Licensing office.

You can keep the personalized message on your plate. You must visit your local DOL office to replace your current UW plate with the new all-purple plate. The DOL will charge a replacement fee to retain your current message. Contact your local DOL office for exact costs and fees.

FAQs

How do I personalize my plates?

Learn more about personalized plates on DOL’s website where you can also search to see if your preference is available. You may personalize your plate with up to seven characters (6 characters for motorcycles), including letters, numbers, dashes, and spaces. No unusual characters (&, !, @ , +, #, etc.)

How much does the new plate cost?

Total costs and fees may vary depending on your vehicle, but the purple plates cost $72.75. Contact your local licensing office for specific fees.

Do I have to be a UW alumnus/a to get a UW plate?

No. Anybody and everybody can purchase UW plates.

Do I have to wait until my tab renewal to get a UW plate?

No. You can purchase a UW plate at any time.

How do I purchase UW plates?

Complete the application and mail to Vehicle Licensing, Department of Licensing, PO Box 9909, Olympia, WA 98507-8500, or take it to a licensing office. It’s that easy.

Can I get a UW plate for my motorcycle or scooter?

Yes!

How much of the special plate registration fee is directed to UW students?

For each plate sold, $28 goes directly to the General Scholarship Fund, which provides scholarships for UW students in Seattle.

When will I receive my UW plates?

The plates are mailed to the registered owner within five business days of purchase.

What will my new plate number be?

Unless you request personalized plates, your new number will be assigned by the DOL computer system. Plates are assigned in numerical order when a transaction is finalized.

Can I keep my plate when I sell my car?

Yes! These plates may be transferred to your new vehicle. Be sure to register your new car with your existing plates with the DOL.