Louisiana license plates are a system of identification used by the Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) that use specific codes to provide information about a vehicle and its owner. Understanding these identifiers is useful for navigating vehicle registration and recognizing the diverse plates on Louisiana roads.
Understanding Standard Louisiana License Plate Formats
Standard passenger vehicle license plates in Louisiana follow a specific format, typically consisting of three letters followed by three numbers. While most combinations are random, certain elements are standardized. All plates must display the state name “LOUISIANA” at the top and be fastened securely to the rear of the vehicle.1Justia Law. Louisiana Revised Statutes § 32:32:53 – Proper Equipment Required on Vehicles; Display of Plate
The design of the standard plate features a pelican graphic and the slogan “Sportsman’s Paradise.” These standard plates are issued for two-year periods and require a validation sticker to show the registration is current.
Louisiana Parish Identification Codes
A feature of many Louisiana license plates is a numerical code on a sticker that identifies the parish where the vehicle is registered. This two-digit number corresponds to one of Louisiana’s 64 parishes.
For example, a sticker with “01” indicates Acadia Parish, “17” is for East Baton Rouge Parish, and “36” signifies Orleans Parish. A complete list of these parish codes is available through OMV resources for public reference.
Special Interest and Organizational Plate Designations
Beyond the standard issue, Louisiana offers a wide array of special interest license plates that allow vehicle owners to represent affiliations with universities, support for causes, or military service. These plates feature unique background designs and often use specific two-letter codes as identifiers. For instance, a plate for an Air Force veteran might use the prefix “AF,” while a plate supporting the “Black Bear” conservation program uses “BB.”
These special plates are authorized under Louisiana Revised Statute 47:463. Acquiring one of these plates often involves an additional fee on top of the standard registration cost. For example, some plates require a royalty fee that supports the organization’s charitable work.
Codes on Plates for Other Vehicle Types
The OMV uses distinct plates and coding systems to differentiate various types of vehicles from standard passenger cars, which often have unique visual identifiers:
- Commercial vehicles are issued plates that state “COMMERCIAL” at the bottom.2Justia Law. Louisiana Revised Statutes § 47:47:508 – Registration; Commercial Vehicles; Exemption
- Motorcycles receive smaller plates with a specific registration format.3Justia Law. Louisiana Revised Statutes § 47:47:505 – Number Plates
- Trailers and semi-trailers have designated plates, with some specifying “BOAT TRAILER.”
- Plates for persons with disabilities are marked with the international wheelchair symbol.4Justia Law. Louisiana Revised Statutes § 47:47:463.4 – Special License Plates or Hang Tags for Persons With Mobility Impairments
- Government-owned vehicles display the word “PUBLIC” vertically on the side.5Justia Law. Louisiana Revised Statutes § 49:49:121 – Name of Board, Department, or Subdivisions; Marking on Boat or Vehicle; Louisiana Public License Plates; Exemptions
Finding Official Louisiana License Plate Code Information
The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles website, ExpressLane.org, provides comprehensive details on plate types. It includes a “Special Plates Viewer” that shows available designs and their associated codes for military, university, and organizational plates.
The website also contains downloadable forms, such as the Request for Personalized Prestige License Plate (DPSMV 1619). For specific questions, individuals can contact the OMV by phone at (225) 925-6146 or visit a local office.