Lifetime registration and no annual vehicle inspections? What’s the catch with antique plates in PA?

For classic car enthusiasts in Pennsylvania, classic, antique, and collectable plates offer a great way to legally show off your vehicle’s charm while enjoying specific benefits.

But which plate do you need for your classic car and why?  

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to qualify for classic, antique, and collectable plates in Pennsylvania, the benefits they offer, and the requirements you’ll need to meet.

What is the Difference Between Classic, Antique, and Collectable Plates?

In Pennsylvania, you can receive three types of specialty license plates for your classic vehicle. These are: classic plates, antique plates, and collectable registration plates.

Classic plates are for vehicles manufactured at least 15 years prior to the current year which have been maintained in or restored to a condition which is substantially in conformity with manufacturer specifications and appearance. In other words, it was like that when it left the factory.

Note: Classic vehicles are subject to an annual vehicle safety inspection, allowing them to be driven at night.

Antique plates are a special type of registration for vehicles that are at least 25 years old and maintained in their original or restored-to-original condition. In other words, it was like that when it left the factory. Modifications, such as modernized parts, may disqualify the vehicle from antique status.

Antique vehicles are primarily for “show, exhibition, and educational purposes,” as well as occasional transportation. They cannot be used for general daily commuting or commercial purposes, or face potential fines.

Antique vehicles operated exclusively between sunrise and sunset are exempt from the normal lighting requirements of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code, but must have their original lighting equipment.

Note: Antique-plated vehicles are exempt from Pennsylvania’s annual vehicle safety inspection and emissions testing.

Collectible registration plates are for reconstructed vehicles, but not a reproduction, substantially modified from the manufacturer’s original specifications and appearance and maintained in a collectible condition as determined by the Department of Transportation.

Note: Generally, substantial changes to the engine and exhaust systems must be done to qualify the vehicle as a collectible motor vehicle. In addition, the vehicle must primarily be used for show and must appear to be in “show” condition in the photographs submitted with the application.

Benefits of Antique Plates

Getting an antique license plate in Pennsylvania offers several perks, especially for classic car enthusiasts who want to preserve and showcase their vehicles.

• Exemption from Annual Inspections: For owners of classic cars that are rarely driven, this saves time, hassle, and potential wear on the vehicle from regular inspections.
• One-Time Registration Fee: Antique plates require only a one-time registration fee rather than yearly renewals. After paying the initial $96 fee, you’re set, making it a cost-effective choice over time compared to standard plates.
• Historical Recognition: Antique plates signify that your vehicle is historically significant, maintained in original condition, or restored to its former glory. This designation can add prestige, making the vehicle stand out as a recognized classic and potentially increasing its value and interest among car enthusiasts.
• Less Depreciation and Maintenance Costs: Since antique vehicles with these plates are typically driven less often, you’ll likely experience less wear and tear and maintain more of the car’s value. Not driving daily helps preserve the integrity of rare parts and ensures the vehicle stays in peak condition.

Restrictions with Antique Plates

While antique plates come with many benefits, they also include restrictions on how you can use your vehicle:

• Photographic Proof: When registering, PennDOT requires four clearly distinguishable color photographs of the vehicle (front, rear and both sides) and a photo of the VIN or serial number as appropriate. They will deny plate registration if photographs are not included. Photographs should:
  • Not be taken at an angle,
  • Must be taken in normal daylight
  • Must clearly show the vehicle and all exterior equipment (i.e., lights, rear wheel shields, fender coverage)
  • Windows must be rolled up
  • Convertible top (if applicable) must be up
• Limited Driving: PennDOT specifies that antique vehicles cannot be used for daily transportation. They are restricted to exhibitions, parades, car club activities, and occasional use. Occasional transportation and similar uses are defined as “no more than one day a week”. For many collectors, this balance is ideal, as it lets them enjoy their car in a limited capacity without full-time road use.
• Annual Mileage Limits: Though Pennsylvania does not set a strict mileage limit, driving an antique-plated vehicle frequently for personal transportation can lead to fines or a potential reclassification.
• Insurance for an Antique Vehicle: While not required by law, many insurers offer specialty antique or collector car insurance that provides coverage tailored to the unique needs of antique vehicles. Specialty policies often come with lower premiums and better coverage for exhibition purposes, however limits the number of miles the vehicle can be driven.

What happens if I sell my antique vehicle?

Antique, classic and collectible registration plates are permanent and are issued for the life of the vehicle while it is owned by the present owner.

• If the present owner sells the vehicle, the registration plate remains with the seller/owner and may be used on another qualified vehicle, provided the proper registration and title fees are paid.
• If ownership is transferred between spouses, or between parent and child, the original registration plate may be transferred in the usual manner with a title fee and transfer fee.
• If the owner sells the vehicle and wants to give the new owner the registration plate, the seller must write a letter of release for the registration plate and give it to the new owner. The new owner should forward the letter to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, along with all appropriate documents and fees when applying for title and registration of the vehicle. The new owner must pay the full registration fee to use the registration plate. The transfer fee is not required in this case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Antique Plates in Pennsylvania

Can I apply for antique plates if my car has been modified? No, vehicles must be maintained or restored to original condition to qualify. Significant modifications, such as adding a modern engine or altering the bodywork, typically disqualify a vehicle from antique status.

How long does it take to receive antique plates? Processing times vary, but applicants can generally expect to receive antique plates within 4 to 6 weeks after submitting a complete application to PennDOT.

Can I transfer my antique plates to another vehicle? No, antique plates are assigned to a specific vehicle and cannot be transferred to another vehicle.

CNS Licensing can help you get your Classic, Antique, or Collectible Plates

Reach out to CNS Licensing where we have been handling our clients’ licensing and permitting needs for over 30 years.

We also carry many types of plates for:

• Passenger Cars
• Trucks
• Motorcycles and Mopeds
• Trailers and Permanent Trailers
• Bus
• School Bus
• Intransit
• Omni Bus
• SME
• IMP

If you have any questions, call (717)627.4334 or email at info@cnslicensing.com.