State law allows the TxDMV's specialty license plate vendor, My Plates, to auction license plate numbers, which can be a word or phrase. Winning bidders are given exclusive rights to the license plate number for 25 years (with an option to renew for 10 years after the 25 years expires).

Winning bidders may place the license plate number on any of the vendor's license plate designs. Buyers of "T" plates, which only allow for six characters, are limited to that design, but the buyer may choose any of the "T" plate colors.

The TxDMV oversees the production of all license plates, which are manufactured at a state prison facility. It usually takes six weeks before personalized specialty license plates are ready.

Buyers pick up the plates at their local county tax office. The plate owner is recorded in the state's motor vehicle database - even if the plates are not put on a vehicle. This helps protect the owner from theft.

Those who use the plates on their vehicles must follow Texas law, which requires vehicle owners to display the front and back plate.

Renewals

Buyers are provided a 10-year renewal option before the plates expire.

Transferring auctioned plates

Unlike other personalized specialty plates, auction plates may be transferred. The plate owner is permitted to sell or gift the plate. New plate owners are required to submit a form notifying the TxDMV they have taken possession of the license plate number.

When auctioned plates are transferred, buyers receive the remainder of the time left on the plate. For instance, if you purchased the auctioned license number after the original owner had it for 10 years, the plate is still good for the remaining 15 years.

New plate owners must visit their local county tax office if they plan to display the plates on their vehicles.

Vehicle registration

Vehicle registration is not included in the price of auctioned specialty license plates. Plate owners must pay their annual vehicle registration.

Scheduled auctions and costs

The TxDMV does not schedule, organize or conduct auctions. This is the responsibility of the specialty license plate marketing vendor, My Plates. Please contact My Plates for auction details, www.myplates.com or call (888) 769-7528.

More Information

Specialty License Plate Auction Frequently Asked Questions