License Plate Roundup: New Jersey

As RealTruck’s License Plate Roundup series continues its cross-country journey, we’re steering back toward the coast toward one of the states most packed with history (and residents). New Jersey, often recognized for its bustling turnpikes, classic diners, and rich shore, has a unique character and charm. From boardwalks to standout license plate designs, New Jersey holds a special place in American history and culture. 

In this month’s feature, we’re highlighting the history, interesting facts, and most unique license plates of the Garden State. Whether you’re a New Jersey local, a seasonal visitor, or are simply curious about East Coast history, buckle up as we make our way to New Jersey. 

Before we get into New Jersey’s unique license plate designs, let's first take a detour into the state’s rich history. In this section, we’ll cover how New Jersey entered the Union, what it’s best known for, how it got its nickname, “the Garden State,” and more. 

New Jersey’s path to statehood coincides directly with the nation’s beginnings. During the American Revolution, New Jersey declared independence from Great Britain in 1776. Just over a decade later, on December 18, 1787, New Jersey became the third state to ratify the US Constitution and formally join the Union. 

New Jersey is a land of attractions and innovations. The renowned Jersey Shore, popularized by the similarly named reality TV show, spans over 130 miles and features boardwalks, beaches, and more. The state is also known as the Diner Capital of the World, boasting more old-school restaurants per capita than any other state. 

Aside from nightlife and entertainment, New Jersey is also known for its long list of “firsts.” From the first commercially grown blueberries to the first incandescent lightbulb—thanks to Thomas Edison—New Jersey has made a significant mark on American innovation.

New Jersey’s nickname is “the Garden State,” which stems from the state’s fertile farmland and agricultural abundance. The name was originally coined by Abraham Browning—the Attorney General of New Jersey—who referred to New Jersey as “a barrel filled with good things to eat and open at both ends.” 

New Jersey offers a wide array of specialty license plates, from those that support environmental conservation to those honoring historic landmarks. Check out some of RealTruck’s favorites below. 

Celebrate New Jersey’s farming roots with the Promote Agriculture license plate, which features “Garden State” lettering and an agricultural emblem. 

The Promote Agriculture license plate is available for a one-time fee of $20. 

Support the preservation of the Hackensack Meadowlands by outfitting your ride with a Meadowlands license plate. This design helps to fund the Meadowlands Conservation Trust, which works to protect open space, encourage land donations, and enhance recreational opportunities in urban wetlands. 

The Meadowlands license plate is available for a one-time fee of $50 plus a $10 annual renewal fee. 

Honor Liberty State Park—the historic waterfront area that once welcomed over ten million immigrants as they trekked from Ellis Island into America. Today, the land serves as a science center, nature area, and recreational area. Purchasing this license plate supports ongoing conservation efforts in the area. 

The Liberty State Park license plate is available for a one-time fee of $50 plus a $10 annual renewal fee. 

An abundance of trees and greenery is one of New Jersey’s most recognizable features. The Treasure Our Trees license plate supports New Jersey’s Shade Tree and Community Forest program, which funds tree planting projects, habitat restoration, beautification efforts, and environmental education. 

The Treasure Our Trees license plate is available for a one-time fee of $50, plus a $10 annual renewal fee. 

Show your support for national security with the United We Stand license plate. Proceeds from the sale of this design benefit the Rewards for Justice program, which offers rewards for information that helps prevent terrorist plots. 

The United We Stand license plate is available for a one-time fee of $50, plus a $10 annual renewal fee. 

As one of the nation’s most decorated naval vessels, the Battleship USS New Jersey earned its place aboard the Garden State’s specialty license plates. This ship, first commissioned in 1943, served in World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War, and beyond. Proceeds from this license plate support preservation of the ship, which now serves as a museum and memorial. 

The Battleship New Jersey license plate is available for a one-time fee of $50 plus a $15 annual renewal fee.

New Jersey’s Conserve Wildlife licence plate is dedicated to protecting endangered and threatened species. A significant portion of the proceeds from the sale of this license plate goes directly to conservation efforts, including bald eagle recovery and wetland habitat management. 

The Conserve Wildlife license plate is available for a one-time fee of $50 plus a $10 annual renewal fee. 

Drivers, start your engines! NASCAR fans can celebrate their favorite drivers or the motorsport itself with the officially licensed New Jersey NASCAR license plate. Choose from eight different drivers, the Dale Earnhardt Hall of Fame, NASCAR fan, or Ford Motorsport plate designs. 

The New Jersey NASCAR license plate is available for a one-time fee of $60 plus a $25 annual renewal fee. 

Football fans can showcase their fandom with an officially licensed NFL plate featuring the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Giants, or New York Jets. Celebrate your favorite team year-round. 

The Philadelphia Eagles license plate is available for a one-time fee of $60 plus a $25 annual renewal fee. Go Birds.

Lastly, the New Jersey Street Rod license plate is the perfect accompaniment for classics and custom builds. This plate is available for qualifying vehicles through New Jersey’s special plate unit. 

The Street Rod license plate is available for a one-time fee of $15. 

With numerous unique license plates available, New Jersey residents can proudly showcase their passions and favorite causes on their vehicles. If you’re a New Jersey driver, keep your license plate secure and stylized with RealTruck’s selection of 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 for all product inquiries and order assistance.