Pennsylvania License Plate Fees
Understanding Pennsylvania license plate fees is essential whether you're buying a car, moving into Pennsylvania, or simply renewing your registration. These fees, set by PennDOT (the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation), ensure your vehicle is properly recorded and legally allowed on the road.
But not all fees are the same. They vary based on the vehicle type, weight, purpose, and even the type of plate you choose. Let’s walk through everything you need to know about registration fees, annual fees, plate types, discounts, renewals, and more to make your experience stress-free.
How Pennsylvania License Plate Fees Work
At its core, the Pennsylvania license plate fee is part of the broader registration fee you pay to operate a vehicle legally. When you first register a vehicle, you pay for the plate itself along with taxes and title costs. Each year after, you pay an annual fee to renew your registration.
Typically, your total plate and registration cost include:
- License plate cost (initial or replacement)
- Annual registration fee
- Additional specialty or personalized plate fees (if selected)
- Applicable taxes (such as local county fees)
The base registration fee for standard passenger vehicles is currently $43, but if you opt for a specialty plate or if your vehicle is larger, your total fee will be higher.
Standard Pennsylvania License Plate Fees
| Vehicle Type | Plate + Registration Fee |
|---|---|
| Passenger Cars | $43 |
| Motorcycles | $21 |
| Trucks (Under 5,000 lbs) | $78 |
| Trucks (5,001–9,000 lbs) | $110 |
| Trailers | $6 (plus title fee) |
| Motorhomes (RVs) | $70–$125 depending on weight |
Plate transfer: $9 in addition to taxes or title fees.
Specialty and Personalized Plate Fees
Pennsylvania offers dozens of specialty plate designs. These affect your fees:
- Military Plates: Additional $11–$23
- University Plates: Additional $25–$40
- Special Organization Plates: Additional $25
- Personalized Plates: Add $112 to standard fees
Important: Specialty plates may involve small extra annual fees during renewal.
Truck, Trailer, and Commercial Vehicle Plate Fees
Truck registration fees are based on Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW):
- 5,000 lbs or less: $78
- 5,001–9,000 lbs: $110
- 9,001–11,000 lbs: $155
- Over 11,001 lbs: Up to $585 (sliding scale)
Trailers: Permanent plates start around $75, based on size and use.
Temporary Plates and Short-Term Registration
If you need immediate access:
- Temporary Fee: $5–$10
- Valid for 90 days
- Available through authorized agents
How to Pay Pennsylvania License Plate Fees
- Online via PennDOT portal (credit card)
- By mail (check or money order)
- In person at Driver License Centers
- Through tag services
Note: Cash is no longer accepted at most centers as of 2025. Bounced checks incur a $62+ fee.
Annual Renewal Fees for License Plates
Renew every year. Notices sent ~90 days before expiration.
- Passenger Vehicle: $43
- Motorcycle: $21
- Truck: Based on weight
- Trailer: Usually $6
Tip: Renew up to 6 months early.
Exemptions, Discounts, and Special Cases
- Military Exemptions: Free or discounted plates for eligible individuals
- Senior Discounts: PACENET enrollees may qualify for reduced fees
- Antique Plates: One-time fee, no annual renewal (vehicles 25+ years old)
Replacing Lost, Damaged, or Stolen Plates
- Replacement Plate: $11
- Replacement Registration Card: $6
Submit Form MV-44 online, by mail, or in person.
How the Plate Issuance Process Works
- Purchase or Title Transfer
- Insurance Verification
- Registration Forms (MV-1 or MV-4ST)
- Pay All Fees
- Receive Plate (in-person or by mail)
Using tag services can take under 30 minutes.
Interactive FAQs About Pennsylvania License Plate Fees
- Q: How much does it cost to get a new license plate in Pennsylvania?
- A: The standard plate fee is part of the $43 registration cost for passenger vehicles. Specialty and personalized plates cost extra.
- Q: Are Pennsylvania license plate fees refundable?
- A: No, once paid, license plate and registration fees are non-refundable.
- Q: Can I transfer my old plate to a new car?
- A: Yes! Plate transfer costs just $9 plus any taxes or title transfer fees.
- Q: What happens if I don't pay my renewal fee on time?
- A: You risk fines, additional fees, and possible suspension of your registration.
- Q: How do Pennsylvania’s license plate fees compare nationally?
- A: Pennsylvania’s standard fees are lower than states like NY and CA, but truck and specialty plate fees can be higher.