MADISON, WI (WLUK) — Wisconsin drivers wanting dark license plates or a throwback flair on their vehicles will soon get their chance.
The state Department of Transportation unveiled “blackout” and “retro yellow” specialty license plates at a news conference Tuesday.
“These new specialized license plates provide a little bit of something for everybody. There’s a nostalgia for Wisconsinites like me who remember the retro plate, and the contemporary feel of the blackout plate for those looking to the future,” said Gov. Tony Evers.
The new plates will be available beginning in early January 2026. A specific date has not yet been announced.
Officials say these plates will have a unique sequence of numbers and letters.
“The blackout plates will begin with ZAA. The retro yellow plates will begin with YAA. The clean design allows for up to seven characters for those wanting to personalize their plates,” said Wisconsin DMV Administrator Tommy Winkler.
Lawmakers say dark license plates have become popular in Iowa and Minnesota. Currently, the Road America license plate — which features white lettering on a black background — is the most popular specialty plate in Wisconsin.
The 2025-27 state budget included $5.5 million in funding to support the introduction of these two specialty license plates, which are estimated to generate more than $25 million for the state’s transportation fund in the first three years. The additional revenue for the state transportation fund will invest in Wisconsin’s infrastructure.
Both plates come with a one-time $15 issuance fee, plus a $25 annual registration fee. The income generated from the registration of these plates will help finance infrastructure improvement projects all across the state.
These plates will be available online, in most DMVs, at participating dealers and third parties who already stock Wisconsin plates. The plates join dozens of others available to order online through DMV’s new web app.
Approximately 25% of plates ordered through the new app are mailed out the next day.The standard license plates will remain available to drivers.
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