Delaware Black License Plates

Delaware's black and white plates are one of the most distinctive plate styles in the state, and also one of the most misunderstood. They are not a style you simply order from the DMV like a specialty plate. Eligibility depends on your existing plate number.

What Is a Delaware Black and White Plate?

These are porcelain or stainless-steel reproductions of Delaware's historic plate design, registered to a specific vehicle. They are available only to vehicle owners whose currently assigned plate number falls within permitted low-digit ranges, which is why they are often called low digit tags.

Who Is Eligible for a Black and White Plate?

Eligibility is tied to your plate number, not an application you can submit regardless of what number you currently hold. Not every plate type qualifies. Vanity, special or organizational, recreational vehicle, and amateur radio plates cannot be reproduced in black and white under the current program, even if the underlying number would otherwise fall in a permitted range.

Where Do You Get a Delaware Black and White Plate?

Qualifying plates are ordered through the Delaware Historic Plate Company, the DMV's authorized vendor for this program, either directly through the company or at a DMV location for eligible plates. Buying a black and white style plate from any other vendor is considered unauthorized and can result in fines.

Is There a Market for Low Digit Plates?

Because eligibility is tied to a specific low number rather than being open to any applicant, low digit Delaware plates have developed an informal resale market, where owners of eligible numbers sell or transfer them to buyers who want a specific low digit tag. Any transfer of the underlying registration number still has to go through the DMV's standard transfer process, since a private sale does not by itself move the plate's legal registration.

How Do You Contact the Delaware Historic Plate Company?

Phone: 302-369-TAGS (8247)
Fax: 302-737-6499
Mail: P.O. Box 9261, Newark, DE 19714

Delaware Black License Plates FAQ

Can I request any number for a black and white plate?

No. You can only apply for a black and white version of a plate number you are already legally registered to hold, since the program reproduces an existing eligible number rather than assigning a new one.

Do black and white plates cost more than standard plates?

Yes, they carry their own fee through the Delaware Historic Plate Company, separate from standard registration and replacement fees.

Can I put a black and white plate on any vehicle I own?

Only if the vehicle carries the eligible low digit registration number tied to that plate. Moving the plate to a different vehicle follows the same transfer rules as any other Delaware plate.