New Yorkers love to make a statement, and what better way to do it than with a custom license plate? From honoring military heroes to celebrating local landmarks and sports teams, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offers an impressive lineup of options. With 212 different picture and professional plates to choose from, covering everything from meaningful causes to zodiac signs, there’s something for every driver. In this blog post for customplateideas.com, we’ll take you through the most popular custom license plates in New York for 2024, uncover what makes them special, and show you how to get your own.
Why Custom Plates Are a Hit in New York
Custom license plates are more than just a registration number—they’re a way to show off your passions and pride. According to DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder, "DMV is pleased to offer so many options for New Yorkers to show their love for our state, their favorite cause, their favorite sports team, and of course to honor their military service." The numbers prove it: thousands of New York drivers opted for custom plates in 2024, turning their vehicles into rolling expressions of identity.
The Top 10 Best-Selling Custom Plates of 2024
Here’s a rundown of the top 10 most popular custom plates in New York last year, based on sales data from the DMV:
- Sold: 1,673 🔥🔥🔥
- What Makes It Special: Featuring the U.S. Army logo and an American flag background, this plate is the ultimate tribute to Army veterans—and the most popular plate in the state.
- Eligibility: Veterans need a DD-214 form, Certification of Military Service, or a New York driver’s license showing veteran status.
- Sold: 930 🔥🔥
- What Makes It Special: This plate’s stunning Montauk Point lighthouse design won the 2023 Best Plate Award from the Automobile License Plate Collectors Association. It’s a beautiful nod to Long Island’s maritime heritage.
- Sold: 798 🔥🔥
- What Makes It Special: With an image of NYC’s iconic skyscrapers, this plate lets drivers carry a piece of the Big Apple wherever they go.
- Sold: 798 🔥🔥
- What Makes It Special: A badge of honor for doctors, this professional plate requires a current Registration Certificate from the New York State Education Department.
- Eligibility: The vehicle must be registered in the doctor’s name.
- Sold: 694 🔥🔥
- What Makes It Special: This bold design celebrates Marine Corps veterans, making it a top pick among military-themed plates.
- Sold: 596 🔥🔥
- What Makes It Special: Perfect for veterans of any branch, this plate offers a simple yet proud way to honor service.
- Sold: 517 🔥🔥
- What Makes It Special: Despite a rocky 2024 season, Bills fans showed their loyalty with this top-selling sports plate.
- Sold: 462 🔥
- What Makes It Special: Racing fans love this high-octane design—just don’t get too carried away on the highway!
- Sold: 359 🔥
- What Makes It Special: A tribute to the unsung heroes of New York’s communities, this plate honors volunteer firefighters.
- Sold: 316 🔥
- What Makes It Special: This plate commemorates NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt, a favorite among racing enthusiasts.
#1 Army Veteran Plate
#2 Long Island Regional Plate
#3 New York City Regional Plate (Tie)
#3 Medical Doctor Plate (Tie)
#5 Marine Corps Veteran Plate
#6 General Veteran Plate
#7 Buffalo Bills Plate
#8 NASCAR Fan Plate
#9 Volunteer Firefighter Plate
#10 Dale Earnhardt Memorial NASCAR Plate
Military Plates: Honoring Heroes
Military-themed plates are a huge draw in New York, with over 50 options available. The Army Veteran plate leads the pack, followed by the Marine Corps and General Veteran designs. To qualify, veterans must submit documentation like a DD-214 form or a driver’s license with veteran status. These plates are a powerful way to celebrate service and connect with New York’s strong military community.
Regional and Sports Plates: Local Love on Display
Regional plates like the Long Island and New York City designs let drivers showcase their hometown pride. The Long Island plate, with its award-winning lighthouse design, is a standout, while the NYC plate captures the city’s skyline in style. On the sports front, the Buffalo Bills plate reigns supreme among team options, followed by NASCAR plates for racing fans. These designs blend culture, fandom, and fun into every drive.
Professional and Community Plates: Recognizing Dedication
For professionals and community servants, custom plates are a mark of distinction. The Medical Doctor plate requires official credentials, ensuring it’s reserved for those who’ve earned it. Meanwhile, the Volunteer Firefighter plate celebrates the bravery and selflessness of those who protect their neighbors. These plates turn a vehicle into a rolling thank-you note.
How to Get Your Own Custom Plate
Ready to join the custom plate club? Head to the New York DMV website to browse all 212 options. Whether you’re after a military plate, a sports design, or something totally unique, you’ll find it there. Some plates require specific qualifications, so check the details before ordering. You can even personalize your plate number for that extra touch of flair!
Wrap-Up: Drive Your Personality
New York's custom license plates are as diverse as the state itself, allowing drivers to express their passions, professions, and pride. From the best-selling Army Veteran plate to the scenic Long Island design, there’s a plate for every story. Why settle for a plain plate when you can make your car truly yours? Visit License Plate Generator for creative inspiration and the ability to customize your own license plate. Check back with customplateideas.com for more ways to make your ride unique!