Utah Code Section 41-1a-402 establishes the requirements for standard license plates, including mandatory colors, numerals, letters, and expiration protocols. The division is responsible for issuing these plates to vehicle owners unless special group or apportioned vehicle license plates are issued instead.
Standard Plate Design Options
Under the current regulations, the division may offer up to four standard license plate designs at one time. These options include two designs representing the state's geography or economy, one design representing state values or culture, and one design commemorating a significant anniversary or current event relevant to the state.
Design Duration and Approval Process
Designs reflecting state values or economy must be offered for at least 10 years, while commemorative designs may be offered for no more than five years. The Governor's Office of Economic Development has the authority to propose design changes or accept public proposals for new designs, provided they determine which existing plate would be replaced. Any such proposals are submitted to a design review board for approval or rejection.
Required License Plate Features
License plates must display the assigned registration number, the name of the state, and a registration decal showing the expiration date. Each plate is required to have an embossed edge around its perimeter, though registration numbers and characters may not be embossed.
Registration Renewal Procedures
Regarding registration renewals, plates must generally be renewed annually. Upon initial registration, the division issues both a month and year registration decal, while subsequent renewals require only a year registration decal. The regulation also specifies that the current year's decal should be placed over or in place of the previous year's decal.
Penalties and Fine Waivers
Violations of these regulations are classified as infractions. However, a court may waive a fine if the vehicle registration was current at the time of the citation and the individual provides evidence within 21 business days that the license plate and decal were properly displayed according to the code.
