Utah's black license plates are standard-issue plates with a dark background and white lettering, available to all vehicle owners registering in the state

Utah's black plate is the default option when you register a vehicle. It features white characters on a dark background and displays your registration number, county designation, and expiration date. You do not have to request it — it comes automatically with standard registration.

The black plate differs from Utah's other standard option, the blue-and-white plate, which features the state's beehive symbol and is also available at no extra cost. Both are legitimate registration plates; the choice between them is yours when you register or renew.

Key Takeaways

  • Black plates are Utah's standard registration option and come automatically unless you choose the blue-and-white alternative.
  • Both black and blue-and-white plates cost the same and meet all legal requirements for vehicle registration in Utah.
  • You can switch between black and blue-and-white plates at your next registration renewal without paying an additional fee.
  • Specialty plates (such as those for disabled persons, veterans, or environmental vehicles) have different designs and may have specific may be able to access requirements.

How to get a black plate when you register your vehicle

When you register a new vehicle or renew your registration with the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles, you will see both the black plate and the blue-and-white plate as options. The black plate is typically the default selection, so if you do nothing, that is what you will receive.

You can register online through the Utah DMV website, by mail, or in person at a local DMV office. If you are registering in person and want to confirm you are getting the black plate, straightforward tell the clerk. If you are registering online or by mail and the system defaults to blue-and-white, you can specify black as your preference.

Black plates versus other Utah plate options

Utah offers several plate designs beyond the standard black and blue-and-white options. Specialty plates include designs for disabled persons, veterans, environmental vehicles, and various organizational affiliations. These specialty plates often have different visual designs and may require proof of may be able to access (such as a disability certification or military discharge papers).

The cost of a specialty plate varies. Some, such as the disabled person plate, are free. Others, such as certain organizational or environmental plates, may carry an additional annual fee. The black plate and blue-and-white plate are always the same price — there is no upcharge for either standard option.

Switching from another plate type to black

If you currently have a blue-and-white plate and want to switch to black, you can do so at your next registration renewal. You do not need to wait for your registration to expire; you can also request a plate change during a mid-cycle renewal if your state allows it, though this may involve a small fee.

If you have a specialty plate and want to switch to black, the process is the same: request the change at renewal. You will need to surrender your specialty plate. If you were paying an annual fee for the specialty plate, that fee will no longer explore once you switch to a standard black plate.

What information appears on a black plate

A Utah black plate displays your registration number (typically three letters followed by three numbers, though formats vary), your county code, and your registration expiration date. The plate also includes "UTAH" and the state symbol. All of this information is required by state law and appears on every standard registration plate, regardless of color.

The white lettering on the dark background meets visibility and readability standards set by the state. If your plate becomes faded, damaged, or unreadable, you can request a replacement from the DMV.

Renewing your black plate registration

Utah registration plates are valid for a set period (typically one to five years, depending on your vehicle type and registration class). When your registration is about to expire, the DMV will send you a renewal notice. You can renew online, by mail, or in person.

During renewal, you will again have the option to keep your black plate or switch to the blue-and-white design. If you do nothing and straightforward renew, your current plate type will continue. If you want to change to black (or to another option), specify that when you renew.

Replacing a damaged or lost black plate

If your black plate is damaged, faded, or illegible, you can request a replacement from the Utah DMV. Bring your vehicle registration and proof of ownership. There is typically a small fee for a replacement plate, though the exact amount varies.

If your plate is lost or stolen, report it to the DMV and request a replacement. Provide your registration number and vehicle information. The DMV will issue a new plate with the same registration number. You should also report the loss to local law enforcement if the plate was stolen, as it could be used fraudulently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep my black plate if I move to a different Utah county?

Yes. Your plate is tied to your vehicle registration, not your county of residence. If you move within Utah, you can keep your current plate. You will need to update your address with the DMV, but you do not have to change your plate unless it is damaged or you choose to switch to a different design.

Does a black plate cost more than a blue-and-white plate?

No. Both standard plates cost the same. The only plates that carry an additional fee are specialty plates, such as environmental or organizational designs. Standard black and blue-and-white plates are always included in your registration fee.

What if I want a personalized black plate?

Utah allows personalized (vanity) plates on both black and blue-and-white designs. You can request a custom number or letter combination when you register or renew. Personalized plates typically cost more than standard plates and have their own set of character restrictions and approval process through the DMV.

Can I use an old black plate on a newly purchased vehicle?

No. Each vehicle registration receives its own plate. When you buy a new vehicle, you will register it separately and receive a new plate. Your old plate stays with the old vehicle registration. You cannot transfer a plate from one vehicle to another.

How long does it take to receive a black plate after registration?

If you register in person at a DMV office, you may receive your plate when ready or within a few days. If you register by mail or online, allow two to three weeks for the plate to arrive. The exact timeline depends on the DMV's processing volume and whether you paid for expedited service.