Michigan’s red, white and blue license plate is returning in celebration of the United States semiquincentennial, the Michigan Secretary of State’s Office said in a Thursday news release.
Drivers can order the limited-edition plate starting on Jan. 2, 2026.
“As we prepare to celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary, I’m proud to announce Michigan’s iconic red, white and blue license plate will return to our roads in 2026,” Secretary Jocelyn Benson said. “Our latest legacy plate honors our country’s founding and history along with our ongoing fight for freedom, equality, and justice for all.”
The new plate includes elements of the American flag, a modern design similar to the original 1976 Michigan bicentennial plate.
Michiganders can order the new semiquincentennial legacy plate when purchasing a vehicle through a dealership, or by scheduling a visit to any Secretary of State office.
Public Act 317 of 2023 signed by Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer revived the patriotic plate.
Motorists who order the new plate will pay an additional one-time fee of $55 fee when the renew their plates, which includes a $5 plate service fee and a $50 contribution to the Michigan Transportation Fund.
The money raised from the new plates, according to the Michigan Secretary of State office, will fund road construction and repairs across the state.
Drivers who need to renew the legacy plate will pay a $10 renewal fee when necessary.
In November 2025, state officials unveiled a “Pure Michigan” license plate honoring women veterans.
Which license plate is most popular in Michigan?
Despite the variety of options, the most popular license plate among Michiganders in 2024 was the “Pure Michigan plate,” with 794,971 plates issued last year, according to the Secretary of State’s office.
There are about 8.6 million vehicles registered in Michigan, the Department of Transportation said.
The U.S. will celebrate its 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026.
Michigan offers five standard plate options and three legacy options. In addition, drivers can purchase a variety of personalized plates and others that honor schools, causes, group and fundraising efforts.
Jalen Williams is a trending reporter at the Detroit Free Press. Contact him at jawilliams1@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: New Michigan license plate recalls 1976. How to get the legacy design
Reporting by Jalen Williams, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
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