Trenton, NJ – New Jersey motorists may soon have the option of displaying classic blue license plates on their vehicles, a move signaling a potential shift in the state’s approach to vehicle identification. The possibility of reintroducing the plates, reminiscent of those used in the 1970s and 80s, has gained traction with state officials, though a firm timeline for implementation remains unclear.
Currently, New Jersey issues yellow plates with the state outline, reading “New Jersey” at the top and “Garden State” at the bottom. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) oversees the issuance of these plates, requiring most vehicles to display both front and rear plates, while motorcycles and trailers require only a rear plate. As of 2025, the MVC remains the issuing authority, according to available records.
The potential return of the blue plates comes as the state continues to refine its vehicle registration processes. New Jersey license plates do not require expiration decals. instead, vehicle registration is validated through the registration card issued to the driver. This system was adopted after a period of sticker-based validation that ended in 2004 for passenger plates, and extended slightly longer for some non-passenger vehicles.
Replacing lost or stolen plates currently requires a police report and a visit to a motor vehicle agency with the current vehicle registration and identification. The MVC provides options for surrendering plates no longer in use, either by visiting an agency and depositing them in a drop box, or by mailing them to the MVC headquarters in Trenton. A receipt is provided as proof of surrender, protecting the former owner from potential liability for charges incurred on the plates after they were surrendered.
Historically, New Jersey residents were responsible for providing their own license plates until 1908, when the state began issuing them directly. The standard plate size of 12 inches by 6 inches was adopted in 1956, aligning with a nationwide standardization effort involving the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The MVC continues to offer specialty plates, including personalized and special interest options, alongside the standard issue plates.
The MVC’s Customer Advocacy Office is available to address concerns and provide assistance with license plate-related issues. As of today, the commission has not announced a specific date for the potential reintroduction of the blue plates, nor have they detailed the process for obtaining them.
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