“Not a state, but here’s your winner.”
Sure, it might be from Canada, but are you going to argue with a license plate shaped like a polar bear? Other posters agreed that this was the king among plates, with one adding: “Yeah, clean design or subtle nods to local heritage are great, but all pale in comparison to a friggin’ polar bear.”
Suggested by: balmertowner
“I really liked my MN moose plate.
“I dropped it for the state parks plate, which doesn’t look as cool but has the great feature of doubling as the vehicle permit for all of the state parks and rec areas.”
A nice, colorful design and it doubles as a permit for state parks in the region? What’s not to love about this Minnesota plate?
Suggested by: lastminutebastrd
“I’m partial to NC’s ‘First in Flight’ license plate that features the Wright Flyer. It’s a cool piece of state history that is clearly illustrated. Many states either have no design or try to be too conceptual.”
People in Ohio might take offense to this plate, but there’s no denying that the first Wright Brothers’ flight did take place in North Carolina. And this plate honors that with its simple design and motto.
Suggested by: Eric Seeger (Facebook)
“You could probably only get away with it on something period correct, but I still love California’s sunset plate.”
Probably the first US license plate design I really noticed, due to its position on the back end of the DeLorean in Back To The Future. Another plate that proves a simple dash of color goes a long way.
Suggested by: maymar
“New Mexico.
“First off it’s a simple, classic design which not only includes the Zia symbol integrated in the reg# but shows ‘New Mexico USA’. It’s both a statement of pride as well as a subtle rebuke of all the coastal pukes who don’t realize New Mexico is a US state. I think it’s particularly fetching in the turquoise/yellow though the standard yellow/red is still nice.”
This was another popular choice. In fact, three different New Mexico license plate designs came to the fore in our poll. But the teal and yellow plate stands out for its vibrant colors and design elements.
Suggested by: ShachiCanthus
“Wisconsin’s Road America license plate is the best. Black with white lettering and an outline of the race track on the side.”
These vanity plates are cool. The bold white text stands out on the black background, and it’s got a map of the circuit right there. Good license plate.
Suggested by: Dan Ristau (Facebook)
“Hawaii. You know why Hawaii? Because if you are seeing one, then you are in Hawaii, and the beach is a-callin’.”
That’s a fair argument, you’re unlikely to see Hawaii plates anywhere except the Aloha isle.
On top of that, the rainbow design is a sleek way to brighten up the standard plate. And, Hawaii also has some vibrant vanity plates if you’re that way inclined.
Suggested by: skeffles
“I’m really digging the throwback Michigan Winter Water Wonderland plates from 1965 that just came out. When I am up for a new plate, I definitely will be going with one of these.”
Another simple, but elegant, design is the re-born Michigan Water Winter Wonderland plate. The plate was resurrected late last year, and drivers in Michigan can now apply to add one to their vehicles.
Suggested by: mp81440
“You can say something else but you’d be wrong and this is why.”
Add a musical icon to your license plate and I’ll always be a fan. Proceeds from the sale of these plates benefit local Imagination Library affiliates across Tennessee.
Suggested by: Mathew Haskins (Twitter)
“The Ocean State (RI) “wave” plate. Unfortunately they are talking about retiring this beautifully simple design.”
Now this one’s good. A two-tone design that isn’t too distracting, images that are synonymous with the state, and a dash of serif fonts. Rhode Island ticks all the boxes. Might have to see if I can register a car out there so I can get my hands on one!
Suggested by: b-wags