What Are Custom License Plates in New Brunswick?
Custom license plates in New Brunswick, also known as personalized plates, are vehicle registration plates that allow vehicle owners to display a unique combination of letters and numbers of their choosing. These plates enable individuals to express their personality, commemorate special events, or display meaningful messages within the constraints of provincial regulations.
Service New Brunswick administers the custom license plate program in the province. These plates must adhere to specific content, format, and length guidelines.
Are Custom License Plates Legal in New Brunswick?
Yes, custom license plates are legal in New Brunswick. Residents can apply for personalized license plates where they can choose the combination of letters and numbers that appear on their plates, provided the combination adheres to the regulations set by Service New Brunswick. The process for obtaining a personalized plate typically involves submitting an application, which can be done online or in person, and ensuring that the desired plate text complies with the motor vehicle registration rules, including any restrictions on what can be included on a plate.
How Can I Get a Personalized License Plate in New Brunswick?
To get a personalized license plate in New Brunswick, you'll need to follow these steps:
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Prepare Your Application: Fill out the application form for a personalized plate. Make sure to list your first, second, and third choices for the plate number since your first choice might be already taken, restricted, or unacceptable.
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Include Payment: The fee for a personalized plate is $175.00 plus HST. This fee does not cover any registration fees that may be applicable. Please include your payment as a cheque or money order payable to "Minister of Finance—N.B." Do not send cash by mail.
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Submit Your Application: You can submit your completed application and payment in person at any Service New Brunswick (SNB) office or mail it to:
Personalized Plates
Department of Public Safety Motor Vehicle Branch
P.O. Box 6000
Fredericton, N.B.
E3B 5H1
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Processing Your Application: Applications are processed in the order they are received. Once your plate is ready, it will be sent to the nearest SNB office unless you specify a different location.
Additional Information: For any questions or further information, contact any SNB office or call (506) 453-2410.
Please ensure that your application includes all necessary details and payment to avoid any delays in processing. Service New Brunswick will release personalized or reserved plates once they have been assigned to a vehicle on the motor vehicle database.
How Much Does a Custom License Plate Cost in New Brunswick?
The cost for a personalized license plate in New Brunswick is $175.00. This fee does not include applicable taxes or any additional registration fees that might be required.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Custom Plate in New Brunswick?
The typical turnaround time to receive your personalized plate after ordering is 4-6 weeks. This allows time for your application to be processed, the plate configuration to be approved and manufactured, and the plates to be shipped to you.
If there are issues with your requested configuration being rejected or unavailable, you will be contacted to submit an alternate choice, which may extend the timeline.
What Is Required to Order a Custom License Plate in New Brunswick?
Ordering a custom license plate in New Brunswick requires meeting specific criteria and providing necessary documentation. The primary requirements include:
• Valid vehicle registration in New Brunswick
• Current insurance coverage
• Completed personalized plate application form
• Payment of required fees
Additionally, applicants must ensure their proposed plate design complies with Service New Brunswick guidelines regarding content and format. The plate must not conflict with existing plate series or contain prohibited content.
What Types of Custom License Plates Are Available in New Brunswick?
New Brunswick offers several categories of custom license plates, including:
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Personalized Passenger Plates: For standard passenger vehicles with custom lettering
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Personalized Motorcycle Plates: For motorcycles with custom lettering
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Veteran Plates: For eligible veterans, featuring a poppy symbol
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Conservation Plates: Featuring images of New Brunswick wildlife, with a portion of the fee going to conservation efforts
What Is Prohibited From Being Displayed on Custom License Plates in New Brunswick?
Custom license plates in New Brunswick are subject to strict content guidelines to ensure they maintain standards of decency and do not interfere with plate readability or law enforcement efforts. Prohibited content on custom plates includes:
• Profane or offensive language
• Discriminatory or hate speech
• Sexual references or innuendo
• References to illegal activities
• Plate designs that mimic or could be confused with standard issue plates
Additionally, Service New Brunswick reserves the right to refuse any plate design it deems inappropriate or contrary to the public interest.
Can I Sell My Personalized License Plate in New Brunswick?
The sale of personalized license plates is not permitted in New Brunswick. Custom plates are considered Service New Brunswick's property and registered to a specific owner. They cannot be legally transferred or sold to another individual.
You can transfer your personalized license plate to another vehicle if you own both cars.
If a plate holder no longer wishes to use their personalized plate, they must surrender it to Service New Brunswick. After a waiting period, the plate may then be made available for new applicants.