How Much Does It Cost to Get a License Plate in Kansas in 2025?
Factors That Influence the Total License Plate Cost in Kansas
The cost of obtaining a license plate in Kansas is influenced by several factors, which include:
- Type of Vehicle: The vehicle type, such as passenger cars, trucks, motorcycles, or trailers, affects the cost. Larger vehicles may incur higher fees.
- Vehicle Weight: Heavier vehicles often require higher registration fees due to increased wear and tear on roads.
- Registration Period: Kansas offers different registration periods, and the length of registration can impact the total cost.
- County Fees: Each county in Kansas may impose additional fees, which can vary significantly.
- Specialty and Personalized Plates: Opting for specialty or personalized plates will add to the base cost of standard plates.
Specialty License Plates in Kansas
Kansas offers a variety of specialty license plates that cater to different interests and affiliations. These plates often come with additional fees:
- Initial Issuance Fee: Typically ranges from $30 to $50, depending on the plate type.
- Annual Renewal Fee: Specialty plates may require an additional annual fee, usually between $5 and $50.
- Contribution to Cause: Some specialty plates include a donation to a specific cause or organization, which is part of the issuance fee.
Examples of specialty plates include collegiate plates, military plates, and plates supporting various charitable organizations.
Personalized License Plates in Kansas
Personalized license plates allow vehicle owners to create a unique combination of letters and numbers. The costs associated with personalized plates are as follows:
- Initial Personalized Plate Fee: $45, in addition to the standard registration fee.
- Annual Renewal Fee: An additional $45 is required each year to maintain the personalized plate.
- Character Limit: Personalized plates in Kansas can have up to 7 characters for standard plates and up to 5 characters for motorcycle plates.
Kansas License Plate Renewal Fee
Renewing a license plate in Kansas involves several fees, which may include:
- Base Registration Fee: Varies by vehicle type and weight, typically ranging from $30 to $60.
- County-Specific Fees: Additional fees imposed by the county, which can range from $5 to $20.
- Property Tax: Calculated based on the vehicle's value and age, this tax is a significant component of the renewal cost.
- Specialty/Personalized Plate Renewal Fee: Additional fees apply if the vehicle has a specialty or personalized plate.
Kansas License Plate Replacements Fee
In the event that a license plate is lost, stolen, or damaged, a replacement can be obtained. The fees for replacement are as follows:
- Replacement Fee: $3 for a standard plate.
- Replacement Decal Fee: $0.50 for a replacement decal.
- Additional Fees: If applicable, additional fees may be charged for specialty or personalized plates.
How Much Is the Tag Transfer Fee in Kansas
When transferring a license plate from one vehicle to another, the following fees apply:
- Tag Transfer Fee: $10, which allows the transfer of the existing plate to a new vehicle.
- Additional Registration Fees: Any difference in registration fees between the old and new vehicle must be paid.
- Property Tax Adjustment: If applicable, adjustments to the property tax may be required based on the new vehicle's value.
Exemptions and Discounts
Certain exemptions and discounts are available for license plate fees in Kansas:
- Military Exemptions: Active duty military personnel may qualify for exemptions from certain fees.
- Senior Citizen Discounts: Some counties offer reduced fees for senior citizens.
- Disability Plates: Individuals with disabilities may be eligible for special plates at reduced or no cost.
- Low-Income Assistance: Programs may be available to assist low-income individuals with registration fees.
These exemptions and discounts are subject to eligibility criteria and may require documentation for verification.