NYS DMV adds new license plate for nation's 250th anniversary

New Yorkers can add a splash of red to the white and blue on their license plates in celebration of the nation’s semiquincentennial.

Motorists can purchase a custom license plate sporting an image of the United States colored in red and blue with a smattering of stars to mark 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles said in news release. The phrase “United States of America 250” replaces the state’s “Excelsior" motto that adorns the bottom of standard plates.

The plates cost $60 up front and can be ordered online or at DMV locations, according to the release. The plates also come with an annual fee of $31.25 billed during registration, which drivers renew every two years. A driver who has the plates for both years would pay $62.50 when they register their vehicle.

“We are delighted to offer this plate to the public as the nation proudly celebrates its 250th anniversary," Christian Jackstadt, the department’s acting commissioner, said in a statement. “It is a great way for New Yorkers to display their love of country and express their appreciation for all America has to offer."

Drivers can order the new plates with a custom combination of letters and numbers up to six for an up-front cost of $91.25, according to the DMV’s website. Plates that include the symbol for accessible parking can be customized with up to five characters. An annual fee would similarly be billed during registration renewal. Those plates cost $62.50 per year, or $125 dollars for both years.