What Are Custom License Plates In Saskatchewan?
Custom license plates in Saskatchewan, also known as personalized plates, are vehicle registration plates that allow vehicle owners to display a unique combination of letters and numbers of their choosing. These plates enable individuals to express their personality, commemorate special events, or display meaningful messages within the constraints of provincial regulations.
Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) administers the custom license plate program in the province. These plates must adhere to specific guidelines regarding content and format.
Are Custom License Plates Legal In Saskatchewan?
Yes, custom license plates are legal in Saskatchewan when obtained through the proper SGI application process. The Traffic Safety Act and its regulations allow for the issuance of personalized plates as long as they meet specific criteria.
To be approved, a custom plate must:
• Contain a unique combination of letters and numbers not already in use
• Not exceed seven characters for a passenger vehicle plate
• Not contain any prohibited words, phrases, or combinations
• Not infringe on any intellectual property rights
• Be in good taste and not offensive to the general public
SGI reserves the right to refuse any custom plate application that does not meet these guidelines. Plates are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain compliant.
How Can I Get A Personalized License Plate In Saskatchewan?
Obtaining a personalized license plate in Saskatchewan involves a specific application process managed by Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI). The steps to acquire a custom plate typically include:
- Checking plate availability using the SGI personalized plate search tool
- Submitting an application form to SGI, either online or through an SGI issuing office
- Paying the required fees
- Awaiting approval of the plate design
It's important to note that all personalized plate requests are subject to review and approval by SGI. The review process ensures that the proposed plate complies with provincial regulations and acceptability standards.
How Much Does A Custom License Plate Cost In Saskatchewan?
The cost of a custom license plate in Saskatchewan varies depending on the plate type and length of the personalization period. As of 2024, the fees are:
• Personalized passenger vehicle plate (annual): $75
• Personalized motorcycle or trailer plate (annual): $75
• Amateur radio operator plate (one-time): $25
In addition to the initial fee, custom plate owners must pay an annual renewal fee to maintain their personalized plates. This fee is charged in addition to regular vehicle registration and insurance costs.
How Long Does It Take To Get A Custom Plate In Saskatchewan?
In Saskatchewan, the timeframe for receiving custom license plates depends on the specific design selected. After you submit your order to a motor license issuer, here's what you can generally expect:
- Standard Plates (including Land of Living Skies, Rider Pride, Saskatchewan Rush, Saskatchewan SPCA, Support Our Troops, Memorial Cross, and Veteran designs): These plates are usually ready and shipped to you within ten business days.
- Specialty Plates (such as Vintage Rider and Collector designs): These plates require a slightly longer processing time, typically around 15 business days before they are dispatched.
This schedule allows for the production and delivery of your custom plate directly to your address or the office of your chosen Motor licence issuer.
What Is Required To Order A Custom License Plate In Saskatchewan?
Ordering a custom license plate in Saskatchewan requires meeting specific criteria and providing necessary documentation. The primary requirements include:
• Valid vehicle registration in Saskatchewan
• Current SGI insurance coverage
• Completed personalized plate application form
• Payment of required fees
Additionally, applicants must ensure their proposed plate design complies with SGI guidelines regarding content and format. The plate must not conflict with existing plate series or contain prohibited content.
What Types Of Custom License Plates Are Available In Saskatchewan?
Saskatchewan offers several types of custom license plates through Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI):
1. Personalized Plates
- Land of Living Skies Plates: This can be personalized with your slogan or Amateur Radio Operator call sign.
2. Specialty Plates That Can Be Personalized
- Collector
- Rider Pride
- Saskatchewan Rush
- Saskatchewan SPCA
- Veteran
- Vintage Rider
3. Specialty Plates That Cannot Be Personalized
- Memorial Cross
- Support Our Troops
- Year of Manufacture (YOM)
What Is Prohibited From Being Displayed On Custom License Plates In Saskatchewan?
Custom license plates in Saskatchewan are subject to strict content guidelines to ensure they maintain standards of decency and do not interfere with plate readability or law enforcement efforts. Prohibited content on custom plates includes:
• Profane or offensive language
• Discriminatory or hate speech
• Sexual references or innuendo
• References to illegal activities
• Plate designs that mimic or could be confused with standard issue plates
Additionally, SGI reserves the right to refuse any plate design it deems inappropriate or contrary to the public interest.
Can I Sell My Personalized License Plate In Saskatchewan?
The sale of personalized license plates is not permitted in Saskatchewan. Custom plates are considered the property of Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) and are registered to a specific vehicle and owner. They cannot be legally transferred or sold to another individual.
If a plate holder no longer wishes to use their personalized plate, they must surrender it to SGI. After a waiting period, the plate may be made available for new applicants. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity of the personalized plate system and ensure compliance with provincial regulations.