New Wyoming License Plates

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New Wyoming License Plates

Wyoming drivers will soon see new license plates on vehicles across the state. Whether you’re registering a new car, renewing your existing plates, or simply curious about the design and features of Wyoming’s latest plates, this guide will help you understand everything you need to know.

What’s New About Wyoming License Plates?

Wyoming updates its license plate designs every eight years, ensuring that the plates remain reflective, readable, and compliant with modern standards. The new design maintains Wyoming’s iconic bucking horse and rider logo, a proud symbol of the state’s heritage.

Key Features of the New Wyoming License Plates

  • Updated Graphics – A fresh background featuring Wyoming’s scenic landscapes.

  • Enhanced Reflectivity – Improves visibility at night and under low-light conditions.

  • Modern Font and Lettering – Easier to read from a distance.

  • Durable Materials – Designed to withstand Wyoming’s harsh weather.

Why Is Wyoming Releasing New License Plates?

The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) updates license plates periodically for several reasons:

  1. Improved Visibility – New materials increase reflectivity, helping law enforcement and other drivers see plates more clearly.

  2. Security and Fraud Prevention – Modern plate designs make it harder to create counterfeit or duplicate plates.

  3. State Identity and Pride – Wyoming takes pride in its western heritage, and the new plates continue to celebrate the state’s unique culture.

  4. Compliance with State Law – Wyoming law requires license plates to be replaced every eight years.

What Does the New Wyoming License Plate Look Like?

The new design features Wyoming’s natural beauty, incorporating:

  • A stunning mountain backdrop, showcasing the state’s rugged terrain.

  • A revised bucking horse and rider emblem, which remains the centerpiece of the plate.

  • Crisp lettering and numbering, ensuring visibility from a distance.

  • Subtle security features, making it harder to forge fake plates.

While the exact colors and details may vary slightly, the new plate continues Wyoming’s tradition of bold, recognizable designs.

Who Needs to Get a New Wyoming License Plate?

If you own a vehicle registered in Wyoming, you’ll need to update your plates when your current ones expire. This applies to:

✔ Personal vehicles (cars, trucks, SUVs)
✔ Commercial vehicles
✔ Motorcycles
✔ Trailers and recreational vehicles (RVs)

However, if you have specialty or prestige plates, you may have different renewal options. Check with WYDOT for specific requirements.

How to Get Your New Wyoming License Plates

If you need new plates, follow these simple steps:

1. Visit Your County Treasurer’s Office

  • Wyoming residents must register their vehicles through their local county treasurer’s office.

  • Bring your current registration, proof of insurance, and a valid ID.

2. Pay the Required Fees

  • Wyoming license plate costs vary based on vehicle type and county taxes.

  • Specialty plates may have additional fees.

3. Receive Your New Plates

  • In most cases, you’ll get your plates immediately at the treasurer’s office.

  • If ordering custom plates, expect a processing period before they arrive.

Types of Wyoming License Plates Available

Wyoming offers a variety of license plate options beyond the standard design. These include:

1. Standard Plates

  • The new general-issue Wyoming plate, featuring the iconic bucking horse and rider.

2. Personalized Plates

  • Custom plates allow drivers to choose their own alphanumeric combination.

  • Must adhere to WYDOT’s guidelines on language and format.

3. Prestige & Specialty Plates

  • Wyoming offers special plates for veterans, first responders, and other groups.

  • Examples include Military Veteran Plates, University Plates, and Wildlife Conservation Plates.

4. Temporary & Commercial Plates

  • Temporary tags for new vehicle purchases.

  • Commercial plates for business vehicles and large trucks.

How Much Do the New Wyoming License Plates Cost?

The price of your Wyoming license plate depends on:

  • Vehicle type (passenger car, truck, motorcycle, RV, etc.)

  • County registration fees

  • Specialty plate fees (if applicable)

On average, standard plates cost between $30 and $100 per year, depending on your vehicle’s value and weight. Specialty and custom plates may have additional fees.

Can You Keep Your Old Wyoming License Plates?

Yes, but with some conditions. Here’s what you need to know:

  • If you want to keep your old plates as a souvenir, you can request to keep them after receiving your new ones.

  • If your old plates are still in good condition, some counties allow you to transfer them to a different vehicle.

  • Wyoming law requires expired plates to be removed from vehicles and not reused illegally.

How to Dispose of Old Wyoming License Plates

Once you’ve received your new Wyoming license plates, you should properly dispose of the old ones. Here’s how:

✔ Recycle Them – Many Wyoming counties offer license plate recycling programs.
✔ Return Them to WYDOT – Some local offices will accept old plates for proper disposal.
✔ Destroy Them – If recycling isn’t an option, cut or bend the plates before discarding them to prevent unauthorized use.

Wyoming License Plate Renewal Process

If your Wyoming vehicle registration is expiring, follow these steps to renew your plates:

1. Check Your Renewal Notice

  • WYDOT sends renewal notices with fees and due dates.

2. Renew Online or In-Person

  • Some counties allow online renewals.

  • Otherwise, visit your local treasurer’s office.

3. Pay the Renewal Fees

  • Costs depend on your vehicle and location.

4. Receive Your New Stickers or Plates

  • If you have a new plate design, you’ll receive a fresh set of plates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When will the new Wyoming license plates be available?

The new plates are being issued as part of Wyoming’s standard 8-year cycle, beginning with new vehicle registrations and renewals.

2. Do I have to replace my plates if I just got a new set last year?

No, plates are replaced only when they reach the end of their cycle. If your plates are still within the valid period, you can continue using them.

3. Are the new plates mandatory?

Yes. Once the current plate cycle ends, all Wyoming vehicles must transition to the new plate design.

4. Can I customize my new Wyoming plates?

Yes! Wyoming offers personalized and specialty plate options for an additional fee.

5. What happens if my plates are lost or stolen?

You must report the loss to local law enforcement and apply for replacement plates at your county treasurer’s office.

The new Wyoming license plates bring a fresh design, improved visibility, and enhanced security while continuing to showcase the state’s rich heritage. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a new driver, updating your plates ensures compliance with Wyoming vehicle registration laws.

If you need to renew your registration, order specialty plates, or get a replacement, visit your local county treasurer’s office to complete the process.