Illinois Secretary of State Unveils 2025 Rejected Vanity License Plates

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WICS) — Every year, the Illinois Secretary of State’s office dives into a sea of creativity as residents submit requests for vanity and personalized license plates. However, alongside the creativity lies a need for boundaries, and the 2025 list of rejected plates clearly illustrates this point. This year’s batch included an impressive 55,690 requests, but over 550 submissions faced rejection, deemed too inflammatory, profane, or downright unreadable according to state law.

A Kaleidoscope of Creativity

The variety of submissions for customized license plates showcases the vibrant personalities of Illinois drivers. Ideas range from heartfelt messages to quirky abbreviations that represent personal stories. However, not all creative ideas pass muster. Among the rejected submissions were abbreviations that many might consider cheeky: BBL, BDASMOM, BLUBALN, and ICUP. These plates exemplify how a clever twist can quickly edge into inappropriate territory.

Standards of Good Taste

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias emphasized the importance of maintaining standards of good taste and decency on the roads. "Illinoisans consistently show off their creativity on customized license plates, but anything that hits the road has to meet the standards of good taste and decency," Giannoulias stated. The office has a dedicated team that specializes in identifying language that might, in any context, be considered lewd or offensive. Their job is crucial: when a plate crosses the line, it doesn’t just vanish; it gets a permanent spot on the rejection list.

Legal Guidelines for Rejections

Under the Illinois Vehicle Code, the Secretary of State’s office holds the authority to reject any license plate that can be seen as offensive or indecent. This includes plates that reference profanity, hate speech, sexual content, drugs, or violence. The law is quite comprehensive in its efforts to maintain a respectful environment for all drivers. Additionally, some plates are flagged not for their wording but for legibility issues, such as MWMWMWM or OOQQOO, which can create safety concerns on the road.

The Demand for Customization

Despite the stringent standards and the resulting rejections, the enthusiasm for custom license plates in Illinois remains robust. A staggering 799,245 vehicles currently sport vanity or personalized plates, reflecting a deep-seated desire among drivers to express their individuality. This ongoing popularity demonstrates that custom plates are more than just identifiers; they are a canvas for personal expression.

The Application Process

For those eager to join the ranks of customized plate holders, the application process kicks off with the Secretary of State’s user-friendly Pick-a-Plate feature. This online tool allows prospective applicants to test out various combinations before committing to a specific plate. This step helps minimize the chance of rejection, making it a practical resource for anyone looking to showcase their personality on their vehicle.

Summary of Insights

The interplay between creativity and regulation is evident in the realm of vanity license plates in Illinois. While the rejection list may seem strict, it reflects a commitment to maintaining decorum on public roads. The blend of personalized expression and responsible governance continues to shape the landscape of vehicle customization in the state, inviting residents to partake in a colorful yet respectful on-road experience.