Press Release  Massachusetts 250 Commemorative Plate Becomes Most Popular Specialty Plate in State History

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s Registry of Motor Vehicles Division (RMV) today announced that it has issued over 100,000 commemorative 250th Anniversary license plates, making it the most popular specialty plate in state history.  

Introduced in May 2025, the plate celebrates 250 years of American independence and Massachusetts’ central role in the founding of the nation. The distinctive blue background with a white and red design features the year “1776” surrounded by 13 stars representing the original colonies, and the phrase “250 Years of Independence” across the bottom.  

"The story of America's independence begins in Massachusetts, and these plates have become a symbol of the pride people feel in that history," said Governor Maura Healey. "Reaching 100,000 plates is an incredible milestone, and it's exciting to see so many residents taking part in our Massachusetts 250 celebration." 

"Whether you're driving through Lexington, New Bedford, Pittsfield or Salem, these plates are a reminder that every corner of Massachusetts has a role in our shared history," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "It's been wonderful to see so many people embrace this celebration and help tell the story of our state."  

“It is exciting to see so many of these distinctive plates on vehicles across Massachusetts,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. “This is an extraordinary milestone that far exceeds the popularity of any specialty plate in Massachusetts history.  I thank the Registry team for their creativity and offering such a meaningful and popular way for residents to take part in this historic anniversary.” 

“Reaching 100,000 plates is remarkable and reflects the tremendous enthusiasm Massachusetts residents have shown for the 250th anniversary,” said Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie. “From the overwhelming response to our 250^th anniversary low-number plate lottery in May to the continued demand at our Service Centers, dealerships, and online, residents across the Commonwealth have embraced the opportunity to display their Massachusetts pride.” 

As part of the anniversary celebration, the RMV conducted a special Massachusetts 250 Low Plate Lottery for plates numbered 1 through 999, as well as the commemorative number 1776. The lottery attracted 48,457 eligible entries, with winners representing 289 cities and towns from Pittsfield to Provincetown. 

More than 4,500 people watched the special prerecorded lottery broadcast featuring stories, trivia, and local history connected to selected plate numbers. The program included appearances by Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng, Registrar Ogilvie, and other RMV leaders. 

The Massachusetts 250th Anniversary plate may be ordered online at Mass.Gov/RMV, at RMV Service Centers, and through participating Electronic Vehicle Registration (EVR) dealerships. The plate will continue to be offered beyond the end of this year. The biennial cost is $100, consisting of the standard $60 vehicle registration fee and a $40 special plate fee. 

In addition to the Massachusetts 250 plate, the RMV offers 56 specialty plates, including charitable, military, organizational, environmental, and other distinctive designs.  

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