So You Want a Fancy Tag, Eh? Your Guide to Georgia Prestige Plates (and Avoiding Hilarious Blunders)
Let's face it, the standard Georgia license plate is about as exciting as a bowl of lukewarm grits. But fear not, fellow motorist! Because for a small fee and a little planning, you can ditch the bland and embrace the prestige (or vanity, if we're being honest) of a personalized plate.
Now, before you go typing in "GA-IWUZHOT" (because, let's be real, some of us are terrible at this), there are a few things to consider.
Step 1: Unleash Your Inner Wordsmith (But Maybe Not That Inner Wordsmith)
First things first, you gotta brainstorm that dream tag. Here's the golden rule: Keep it classy, keep it short, and for the love of peaches, avoid anything offensive (they won't let you have it, trust me).
Think nicknames, inside jokes with friends (just make sure they're not too obscure), or even a play on your car (got a minivan? "MINIVANLIFE" could be a fun option). Just remember, this is gonna be following you around town, so make it something you won't cringe at in a year.
Pro Tip: Check for availability online before you get your heart set on something only to discover it's already cruising the streets of Atlanta.
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Step 2: The Money Talks (and Makes Your License Plate Talk Too)
Alright, so you've got your genius tag idea. Now it's time to pony up some cash. There's a one-time manufacturing fee of $35, and then an annual $35 special tag fee on top of your regular registration costs.
But wait, there's more! You'll also need to pay the standard registration fee. So, factor that in before you blow your whole paycheck on a fancy plate that says "BYEEEBYE" to your gas money.
Step 3: Tag, You're It! Visit Your Local County Tag Office
With your masterpiece of a tag idea and some spare bills in hand, head to your local county tag office. Be prepared to fill out a Special Prestige License Plate Application (form MV-9B), which is basically just a fancy way of saying "I want a tag that says I'm cooler than everyone else" (but in official government speak, of course).
Tip: Context builds as you keep reading.
How To Get A Prestige Tag In Georgia |
Step 4: Patience, Grasshopper
The good news? You might walk out with a temporary tag the same day. The bad news? It can take a few weeks for your official plate to be manufactured and mailed to you. So, don't be surprised if you have to rock the boring old plate for a little bit longer.
Cruising in Style (and Avoiding Rookie Mistakes)
There you have it! You're now the proud owner of a personalized plate that says something about you (hopefully something good). Just remember, with great prestige plates comes great responsibility.
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
- Don't be that guy who uses their plate to brag (believe it or not, a "BENTLEY" plate doesn't actually make your beat-up Civic any faster).
- Double-check your spelling. Nobody wants to be the driver with the plate that says "PHATBOAT" instead of "FATBOT" (although, that might be a good conversation starter).
- Keep it classy. This isn't a bumper sticker contest, folks.
Bonus Tip: If you're feeling particularly indecisive, Georgia offers a ton of specialty plates to choose from that support different causes. You can rep your favorite college, the environment, or even the military.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions for the Aspiring Prestige Plate Owner
How to check if my plate idea is available?
You can check for availability online on the Georgia Department of Revenue website.
How much does it cost to get a prestige plate?
QuickTip: Treat each section as a mini-guide.
There's a one-time $35 manufacturing fee and a $35 annual special tag fee on top of your regular registration costs.
How long does it take to get my prestige plate?
You might walk out with a temporary tag the same day, but it can take a few weeks for your official plate to be manufactured and mailed to you.
Can I get a prestige plate for a leased vehicle?
Yes, but you'll need to process the application at the county tag office where the lessee resides.
Are there any restrictions on what I can put on my prestige plate?
Yes, avoid anything offensive or obscene. Also, keep it