AMES, Iowa – April 27, 2012 – The Iowa Department of Transportation seeks to clarify the process used and laws associated with issuance of special license plates with processed emblems.
Iowa law provides three methods for issuance of special license plates with a processed emblem.
The legal standards for the special emblem are set forth in the Iowa Administrative Code. Under those standards, the special emblem cannot have any sexual connotation, nor shall it be vulgar, prejudiced, hostile, insulting, or racially or ethnically degrading. The Iowa DOT's review of the content of the special emblem is limited to a determination of whether the special emblem meets these criteria, and is otherwise viewpoint neutral.
The Iowa DOT recently approved an application for a special plate that will feature the “Choose Life” emblem. The application was submitted by Iowa Right to Life, under the administrative option for organizations. Iowa Right to Life is now gathering the required 500 prepaid license plate applications from Iowans. The group has one year to gather the necessary applications. If 500 applications are received, then the Iowa DOT will begin manufacturing and issuing the plates. If the required number of applications is not received within a year, the department may cancel its approval of the application or grant an extension.
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Contact: Mark Lowe, director, Motor Vehicle Division, 515-402-3986 or mark.lowe@dot.iowa.gov