License Plate Roundup: Alabama

Alabama’s claim to fame stretches far and wide. From rocket science to massive winding rivers, Alabama is an unforgettable state that’s rich in history, culture, and industry. 

Regarding natural features, Alabama is known for its scenic beauty. The Appalachian Mountains sweep across the state’s northeastern border, while the “American Amazon,” a.k.a. the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta, boasts one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the country. To the South, the Gulf Shores offer warm sand and water, creating a tropical feel. 

Not only is Alabama home to natural wonders, but it also boasts such iconic artificial marvels as Huntsville—the “rocket city,” which played a pivotal role in man’s exploration of the moon and stars. Alabama is also home to several automotive assembly plants, with manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, and Honda conducting business.

Lastly, you can’t mention Alabama without referencing its role in the American Civil Rights movement. States like Montgomery, Birmingham, and Selma were the setting of countless marches and protests that forever changed the course of the United States. 

What is Alabama’s Nickname? 

While Alabama doesn’t have an official nickname, several unofficial titles have been bestowed upon the state by its citizens. One such title is “The Cotton State,” which reflects the massive cash crop that helped to build Alabama’s economy. Yet another is “The Yellowhammer State,” which references Alabama’s state bird, the Northern Flicker—also known as the yellowhammer. 

Alabama’s License Plate Designs

With such a rich history, it’s no surprise that Alabama’s license plates are one of the country’s most unique. From simple standard-issue designs to colorful commemorative plates, let’s learn more about Alabama’s license plate system and designs.  

Standard, Special Interest, and Personalized Plates

Alabama isn’t unlike other states in the country in terms of its license plate system. The state offers various plate types to reflect your personal style, convictions, and interests, including standard-issue, specialty, and personalized plates.

Costs vary depending on the type of license plate. While standard-issue plates typically come with annual registration fees, special plates can cost an additional 50 dollars or more. Once you receive your Alabama plates, you’ll only need to run the rear plate to abide by the law. So long as the rear license plate is clearly visible, free from obstruction, and securely fastened, you’re good!

RealTruck Favorites

Now that we’ve covered how Alabama’s license plate system works, it’s time to get into RealTruck’s top license plate designs. The following plates feature either noble causes, striking designs, or both, making them a definitive pick. 

Vintage Vehicle

If you’re the proud owner of a muscle car, classic truck, or other vintage ride, why not outfit it with a Vintage Vehicle license plate? This unique design features an ornate border, “Vintage Vehicle” script, and a ghosted image of a Ford Model T behind the alphanumerics. As long as your vehicle is 30 years of age or older and qualifies as a vintage vehicle, meaning it’s operated solely as a collector's item, you can obtain a vintage vehicle license plate. 

An Alabama Vintage Vehicle plate requires payment of a $10 fee. 

Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

While RealTruck is all about souping up our four-wheeled rides, we haven’t forgotten about the world of two-wheeled riders. For many, trucks and motorcycles go hand in hand. If you support all things motorized and wheeled, check out the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Birmingham, Alabama. Boasting the most extensive collection of motorcycles in the world, the Barber Motorsports Museum houses over 1,800 motos from 220 manufacturers. 

Support ongoing efforts to maintain and operate the museum with the purchase of a Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum license plate, which donates the entire $50 proceeds to the museum. 

Ducks Unlimited

Whether you’re an avid hunter or a nature lover, the Ducks Unlimited license plate is for you. Featuring an image of a wood duck before the iconic Ducks Unlimited logo, this plate perfectly encapsulates the Ducks Unlimited mission of preserving crucial wetlands throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico. 

The purchase of a Ducks Unlimited license plate costs $50, with all proceeds going directly to Ducks Unlimited. 

Environmental

Alabama is a state renowned for its natural beauty. However, the natural environment is constantly under attack from litter, unsafe business practices, and overdevelopment. Support the preservation of Alabama’s natural environment with an Environmental license plate, which donates $50 to Legacy Inc. to fund environmental education efforts in Alabama. 

Ag Tag

As a state shaped by agriculture, Alabama and its residents undeniably hold on to their Ag roots. Through education, teacher training, and agricultural awareness, the Alabama Farmers Federation aims to support present and future farmers in Alabama. 

Of the $50 fee collected from the purchase of an Ag Tag license plate, all proceeds go directly to the Alabama Farmers Federation. 

Habitat for Humanity

With the American dream of homeownership feeling further out of reach each year, organizations like Habitat for Humanity are making strides to help Americans achieve their goals through the building and rehabilitation of affordable housing, as well as financial education efforts.

The purchase of a Habitat for Humanity license plate directly aids this mission, with all proceeds of $50 going directly to the organization and its ongoing efforts. 

State Parks Supporter

State parks are one of the last protected landscapes in the United States, preserving the natural environment while providing Americans with a place to escape, explore, and connect with nature. 

The purchase of an Alabama State Parks Supporter license plate directly contributes $50 to Alabama state parks by funding the Department of Conservation. 

Wildlife Federation

Alabama’s wildlife is one of its most essential features. Help to keep the state protected with the Alabama Wildlife Federation license plate, which contributes all $50 of its purchase price directly to the organization to fund wildlife and natural resource conservation activities.

Alabama A&M

Showcase your A&M pride with this iconic collegiate license plate. Not only does this license plate showcase your support for the school, but its $50 purchase price also directly funds general scholarships and grants for Alabama residents. 

Forever Wild

Keep Alabama wild with the Forever Wild license plate. This license plate design helps to educate and inform Alabama residents of the importance of wildlife conservation and environmental protection. Each $50 purchase directly funds the Forever Wild, State Lands Division, to be used for the Forever Wild Land Acquisition Program.

Shop License Plate Products and Accessories

Undoubtedly, Alabama offers some of the country’s wildest and most noble license plates, benefitting several valiant causes and organizations, from wildlife conservation to motorsport museum maintenance. 

As an Alabama resident, ensure your license plate is securely affixed to your truck, Jeep®, or SUV with our license plate frames, holders, brackets, and relocation solutions.

Stay tuned for our next License Plate Roundup feature, where we tackle another state’s top license plate artwork. As always, please contact the experts with all product inquiries and for order assistance.