Michigan Bans Over 30,000 License Plates in Crackdown

Michigan is taking significant measures to maintain decorum on its roads by banning over 30,000 personalized license plates. The list of banned plates has notably expanded, reflecting the state’s commitment to preventing offensive language and imagery on vehicle registrations.

Details of the License Plate Crackdown

In 2025 alone, Michigan added approximately 2,000 new entries to this extensive banned list. This data was revealed following a public records request by Bridge Michigan under the Freedom of Information Act. The state conducts a thorough review process to analyze the submissions.

Review Process Overview

• 25 volunteers participate in a three-stage review system.
• The initial review assesses submissions for appropriateness.
• A second group votes on whether to approve or deny the plate.
• The final group communicates rejection decisions to applicants, suggesting alternative options where permissible.

Reasons for Rejection

Personalized plates are commonly rejected for a variety of reasons, including:

• Use of vulgar or obscene language.
• References to drugs or alcohol.
• Innuendos related to illegal activities.
• Hate speech or violent imagery.
• Inappropriate combinations with organizational logos.

Recent and Past Bans

Newly banned plates include combinations attempting to sneak in profane language, such as:

• 0F0KS
• 0FUX4U
• 0GB0SS
• B4DAZZ
• ILEGAL

Previously, plates like “2DAMH0T” and “WEEDMAN” have also been denied under similar guidelines. Some plates are rejected not only for their wording but also for how they might interact with official logos, creating unintended offensive phrases.

Community Engagement

Residents of Michigan can check the availability of personalized plates online. The Secretary of State’s website offers a preview feature, allowing drivers to visualize their chosen plates before submission. This proactive approach ensures that applicants understand potential issues before applying.

The crackdown on inappropriate personalized license plates reflects Michigan’s dedication to fostering a respectful driving environment. As the list continues to grow, the state remains vigilant in its efforts to monitor and regulate vehicle personalization.