N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-79-4 — NC Code / Chapter 20 / Section 20-79-4
§ 20-79.4. Special registration plates
Status: reserved

(a) General.--Upon application and payment of the required registration fees, a person may obtain from the Division a special registration plate for a motor vehicle registered in that person's name if the person qualifies for the registration plate. A holder of a special registration plate who becomes ineligible for the plate, for whatever reason, must return the special plate within 30 days. A special registration plate may not be issued for a vehicle registered under the International Registration Plan. A special registration plate may be issued for a commercial vehicle that is not registered under the International Registration Plan. A special registration plate may not be developed using a name or logo for which a trademark has been issued unless the holder of the trademark licenses, without charge, the State to use the name or logo on the special registration plate.

(a1) Qualifying for a Special Plate.--In order to qualify for a special plate, an applicant shall meet all of the qualifications set out in this section. The Division of Motor Vehicles shall verify the qualifications of an individual to whom any special plate is issued to ensure only qualified applicants receive the requested special plates.

(a2) Special Plates Based Upon Military Service.--The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs shall be responsible for verifying and maintaining all verification documentation for all special plates that are based upon military service. The Department shall not issue a special plate that is based on military service unless the application is accompanied by a motor vehicle registration (MVR) verification form signed by the Secretary of Military and Veterans Affairs, or the Secretary's designee, showing that the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs has verified the applicant's credentials and qualifications to hold the special plate applied for. The following shall apply to special plates issued under this subsection:

(1) Unless a qualifying condition exists requiring annual verification, no additional verification shall be required to renew a special registration plate either in person or through an online service.

(2) If the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs determines a special registration plate has been issued due to an error on the part of the Division of Motor Vehicles, the plate shall be recalled and canceled.

(3) If the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs determines a special registration plate has been issued to an applicant who falsified documents or has fraudulently applied for the special registration plate, the Division of Motor Vehicles shall revoke the special plate and take appropriate enforcement action.

(4) The surviving spouse of a person who had a special plate issued under the terms of this subsection may continue to renew the plate so long as the surviving spouse does not remarry. This is a qualifying condition requiring verification under subdivision (1) of this subsection.

(a3) The Division shall develop, in consultation with the State Highway Patrol and the Division of Prisons, a standardized format for special license plates. The format shall allow for the name of the State and the license plate number to be reflective and to contrast with the background so it may be easily read by the human eye and by cameras installed along roadways as part of tolling and speed enforcement. A designated segment of the plate shall be set aside for unique design representing various groups and interests. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to require the recall of existing special license plates.

(b) Types.--The Division shall issue the following types of special registration plates:

(1) 82nd Airborne Division Association Member.--Issuable to a member of the 82nd Airborne Division Association, Inc. The plate shall bear the insignia of the 82nd Airborne Division Association, Inc. The Division may not issue the plate authorized by this subdivision unless it receives at least 300 applications for the plate.

(2) Administrative Officer of the Courts.--Issuable to the Director of the Administrative Office of the Courts. The plate shall bear the phrase “J-20”.

(3) AIDS Awareness.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(4) Air Medal Recipient.--Issuable to the recipient of the Air Medal. The plate shall bear the emblem of the Air Medal and the words “Air Medal”.

(5) Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle. The plate shall bear the sorority's symbol and name. The Division may not issue the plate authorized by this subdivision unless it receives at least 300 applications for the plate.

(6) Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.--Issuable to a member or supporter of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the fraternity's symbol and name.

(7) ALS Research.--Issuable to a registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear a picture of a baseball and the phrase “Cure ALS.’’

(8) Alternative Fuel Vehicles.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(9) Amateur Radio Operator.--Issuable to an amateur radio operator who holds an unexpired and unrevoked amateur radio license issued by the Federal Communications Commission and who asserts to the Division that a portable transceiver is carried in the vehicle. The plate shall bear the phrase “Amateur Radio”. The plate shall bear the operator's official amateur radio call letters, or call letters with numerical or letter suffixes so that an owner of more than one vehicle may have the call letters on each.

(10) American Legion.--Issuable to a member of the American Legion. The plate shall bear the words “American Legion” and the emblem of the American Legion. The Division may not issue the plate authorized by this subdivision unless it receives at least 300 applications for the plate.

(11) American Red Cross.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(12) Animal Lovers.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate may bear a picture of a dog and cat and the phrase “I Care.”

(13) ARC of North Carolina.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(14) Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal Recipient.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(15) Arthritis Foundation.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(16) ARTS NC.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “The Creative State” with a logo designed by ARTS North Carolina, Inc.

(17) Audubon North Carolina.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(18) Autism Society of North Carolina.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Autism Society of North Carolina”, and the logo of the Autism Society.

(19) Aviation Maintenance Technician.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(20) Back Country Horsemen of North Carolina.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(21) Battle of Kings Mountain.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Battle of Kings Mountain” with a representation of Kings Mountain on it. The plate authorized by this subdivision is not subject to the provisions of G.S. 20-79.3A or G.S. 20-79.8 .

(22) Be Active NC.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(23) Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the words “Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament” and include a representation of a blue marlin.

(24) Blue Knights.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(25) Boy Scouts of America.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(26) Brain Injury Awareness.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(27) Breast Cancer Awareness.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle. The plate shall bear the phrase “ Early Detection Saves Lives ” and a representation of a pink ribbon. The Division must receive 300 or more applications for the plate before it may be developed.

(28) Breast Cancer Earlier Detection.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(29) Brenner Children's Hospital.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(30) Bronze Star Recipient.--Issuable to a recipient of the Bronze Star. The plate shall bear the emblem of the Bronze Star and the words “Bronze Star”.

(31) Bronze Star Valor Recipient.--Issuable to a recipient of the Bronze Star Medal for valor in combat. The plate shall bear the emblem of the Bronze Star with a “Combat V” emblem and the words “Bronze Star.” To be eligible for this plate, the applicant must provide documentation that the medal was issued for valor in combat.

(32) Buddy Pelletier Surfing Foundation.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the words “Buddy Pelletier Surfing Foundation” and bear the logo of the Foundation.

(33) Buffalo Soldiers.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(34) Carolina Panthers.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Keep Pounding”, the logo of the Carolina Panthers, and the letters “CP”. The Division shall not develop a plate under this subdivision without a license to use copyrighted or registered words, symbols, trademarks, or designs associated with the plate. The Division shall not pay a royalty for the license to use the copyrighted or registered words, symbols, trademarks, or designs associated with the plate. The plate authorized by this subdivision is not subject to the provisions of G.S. 20-79.3A or G.S. 20-79.8 .

(35) Carolina Raptor Center.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(36) Carolina Regional Volleyball Association.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(37) Carolina's Aviation Museum.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(38) Carolinas Credit Union Foundation.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(39) Carolinas Golf Association.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Carolinas Golf Association” and an emblem of the Carolinas Golf Association.

(40) Celebrate Adoption.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(41) Charlotte Checkers.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(42) Childhood Cancer Awareness.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(43) Choose Life.--Issuable to a registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Choose Life.”

(44) Civic Club.--Issuable to a member of a nationally recognized civic organization whose member clubs in the State are exempt from State corporate income tax under G.S. 105-130.11(a)(5) . Examples of these clubs include Jaycees, Kiwanis, Optimist, Rotary, Ruritan, and Shrine. The plate shall bear a word or phrase identifying the civic club and the emblem of the civic club. A person may obtain from the Division a special registration plate under this subdivision for the registered owner of a motor vehicle or a motorcycle. The registration fees and the restrictions on the issuance of a specialized registration plate for a motorcycle are the same as for any motor vehicle. The Division may not issue a civic club plate authorized by this subdivision unless it receives at least 300 applications for that civic club plate.

(45) Civil Air Patrol Member.--Issuable to an active member of the North Carolina Wing of the Civil Air Patrol. The plate shall bear the phrase “Civil Air Patrol”. A plate issued to an officer member shall begin with the number “201” and the number shall reflect the seniority of the member; a plate issued to an enlisted member, a senior member, or a cadet member shall begin with the number “501”.

(46) Class D Citizen's Radio Station Operator.--Issuable to a Class D citizen's radio station operator. For an operator who has been issued Class D citizen's radio station call letters by the Federal Communications Commission, the plate shall bear the operator's official Class D citizen's radio station call letters. For an operator who has not been issued Class D citizen's radio station call letters by the Federal Communications Commission, the plate shall bear the phrase “Citizen's Band Radio”.

(47) Repealed by S.L. 2022-6, § 19.1(a), retroactively eff. July 1, 2021 .

(48) Coast Guard Auxiliary Member.--Issuable to an active member of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. The plate shall bear the phrase “Coast Guard Auxiliary”.

(49) Coastal Conservation Association.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(50) Coastal Land Trust.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Coastal Land Trust” with a logo designed by the North Carolina Coastal Land Trust.

(51) Cold War Veteran.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(52) Collegiate Insignia Plate.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate may bear a phrase or an insignia representing a public or private college or university.

(53) Colorectal Cancer Awareness.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear (i) the phrase “It Takes a Warrior to Battle Cancer!” across the top of the plate, (ii) a symbol on the left side of the plate of a blue ribbon with two wings that are colored blue, grey, and black, (iii) the phrase “Blue Ribbon Warrior” above the symbol, (iv) the phrase “Colorectal Cancer Awareness” below the symbol, and (v) the letters “CC” on the right side of the plate. The plate authorized under this subdivision is not subject to G.S. 20-79.3A(c) or the deadline set forth in G.S. 20-79.3A(b) .

(54) Combat Infantry Badge Recipient.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(55) Combat Veteran.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(56) Commercial Fishing.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(57) Concerned Bikers Association/ABATE of North Carolina.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(58) Corvette Club.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(59) County Commissioner.--Issuable to a county commissioner of a county in this State. The plate shall bear the words “County Commissioner” followed first by a number representing the commissioner's county and then by a letter or number that distinguishes plates issued to county commissioners of the same county. The number of a county shall be the order of the county in an alphabetical list of counties that assigns number one to the first county in the list and a letter or number to distinguish different cars owned by the county commissioners in that county. The plate authorized by this subdivision is not subject to the provisions of G.S. 20-79.3A or G.S. 20-79.8 .

(60) Crystal Coast.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(61) Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(62) Daughters of the American Revolution.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(63) Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle. The plate shall bear the sorority's name and symbol. The Division must receive 300 or more applications for the plate before it may be developed.

(64) Disabled Veteran.--Issuable to a veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States who suffered a 100% service-connected disability. A person may obtain from the Division a special registration plate under this subdivision for the registered owner of a motor vehicle or a motorcycle.

(65) Distinguished Flying Cross.--Issuable to a recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross. The plate shall bear the emblem of the Distinguished Flying Cross and the words “Distinguished Flying Cross”.

(66) District Attorney.--Issuable to a North Carolina or United States District Attorney. The plate issuable to a North Carolina district attorney shall bear the letters “DA” followed by a number that represents the prosecutorial district the district attorney serves. The plate for a United States attorney shall bear the phrase “U.S. Attorney” followed by a number that represents the district the attorney serves, with 1 being the Eastern District, 2 being the Middle District, and 3 being the Western District.

(67) Donate Life.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Donate Life” with a logo designed by Donate Life North Carolina.

(68) Don't Tread on Me.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(69) Ducks Unlimited.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the logo of Ducks Unlimited, Inc., and shall bear the words: “Ducks Unlimited”.

(70) E-911 Telecommunicator.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(71) Eagle Scout.--Issuable to a young man who has been certified as an Eagle Scout by the Boy Scouts of America, or to his parents or guardians. The plate shall bear the insignia of the Boy Scouts of America and shall bear the words “Eagle Scout”. The Division may not issue the plate authorized by this subdivision unless it receives at least 300 applications for the plate.

(72) Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.--Issuable to a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians who presents to the Division a tribal identification card. The plate may bear a phrase or emblem representing the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. The plate authorized by this subdivision is not subject to the provisions of G.S. 20-79.3A .

(73) El Pueblo.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(74) Emergency Medical Technician.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(75) Farmland Preservation.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(76) Fire Department or Rescue Squad Member.--Issuable to an active regular member or volunteer member of a fire department, rescue squad, or both a fire department and rescue squad. The plate shall bear the words “Firefighter”, “Rescue Squad”, or “Firefighter-Rescue Squad”.

(77) First in Forestry.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle. The plate shall bear the words “First in Forestry”. The Division may not issue the plate authorized by this subdivision unless it receives at least 300 applications for the plate.

(78) First in Turf.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(79) First Tee.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(80) Flag of the United States of America.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(81) Fox Hunting.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(82) Fraternal Order of Police.--The plate authorized by this subdivision shall bear a representation of the Fraternal Order of Police emblem containing the letters “FOP”. The Division must receive 300 applications for the plate before it may be developed. The plate is issuable to one of the following:

a. A person who presents proof of active membership in the State Lodge, Fraternal Order of Police for the year in which the license plate is sought.

b. The surviving spouse of a person who was a member of the State Lodge, Fraternal Order of Police, so long as the surviving spouse continues to renew the plate and does not remarry.

(83) Future Farmers of America.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(84) Girl Scout Gold Award recipient.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(85) Girl Scouts.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(86) Gold Star Lapel Button.--Issuable to the recipient of the Gold Star lapel button. The plate shall bear the emblem of the Gold Star lapel button and the words “Gold Star”.

(87) Goodness Grows.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(88) Greensboro Symphony Guild.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(89) Greyhound Friends of North Carolina.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(90) Guilford Battleground Company.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Revolutionary” used by the Guilford Battleground Company and an image that depicts General Nathaniel Greene.

(91) Harley Owners’ Group.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall be designed in consultation with and approved by the Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Inc., and shall bear the words and trademark of the “Harley Owners’ Group”.

(92) High Point Furniture Market 100th Anniversary.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(93) High School Insignia Plate.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate may bear a phrase or an insignia representing a public high school in North Carolina.

(94) Historic Vehicle Owner.--Issuable for a motor vehicle that is at least 30 years old measured from the date of manufacture, including vehicles weighing more than 6,000 pounds. The plate for an historic vehicle shall bear the word “Antique” unless the vehicle is a model year 1943 or older. The plate for a vehicle that is a model year 1943 or older shall bear the word “Antique” or the words “Horseless Carriage”, at the option of the vehicle owner. The plate for an historic vehicle weighing more than 6,000 pounds shall bear the phrase “Not-for-hire.”

(95) Historical Attraction Plate.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate may bear a phrase or an insignia representing a publicly owned or nonprofit historical attraction located in North Carolina.

(96) Hollerin'.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(97) Home Care and Hospice.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Home Care and Hospice” and the letters “HH” on the right side of the plate.

(98) Home of American Golf.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(99) HOMES4NC Plate.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear “HOMES4NC”, the logo of the North Carolina Association of Realtors Housing Opportunity Foundation, and shall be developed in conjunction with that organization. The Division may not issue the plate authorized by this subdivision unless it receives at least 300 applications for the plate.

(100) Repealed by S.L. 2022-68, § 20(a), eff. Oct. 1, 2022 .

(101) Hospice Care.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(102) I.B.P.O.E.W.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(103) I Support Teachers.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(104) In God We Trust.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “In God We Trust.”

(105) International Association of Fire Fighters.--The plate authorized by this subdivision shall bear the logo of the International Association of Fire Fighters. The Division may not issue the plate unless it receives at least 300 applications for the plate. The plate is issuable to one of the following in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 :

a. A person who presents proof of active membership in the International Association of Fire Fighters for the year in which the license plate is sought.

b. The surviving spouse of a person who was a member of the International Association of Fire Fighters, so long as the surviving spouse continues to renew the plate and does not remarry.

(106) Jaycees.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(107) Judge or Justice.--Issuable to a sitting or retired judge or justice in accordance with G.S. 20-79.6 .

(108) Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Juvenile Diabetes Research” and the “sneaker” logo of the nonprofit group Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International, Inc.

(109) Kappa Alpha Order.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(110) Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle who is a member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. The plate shall bear the fraternity's symbol and name. The Division may not issue the plate authorized by this subdivision unless it receives at least 300 applications for the plate.

(111) Keeping The Lights On.--Issuable to a registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall have a background of mountains to the coast and bear a picture of a line worker on a utility pole on the left and the phrase “Keeping The Lights On” at the top of the registration plate.

(112) Kick Cancer for Kids.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the words “Kick Cancer for Kids” and a representation of a gold ribbon with children's handprints surrounding the ribbon.

(113) Kids First.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate may bear the phrase “ Kids First ” and a logo of children's hands.

(114) Legion of Merit.--Issuable to a recipient of the Legion of Merit award. The plate shall bear the emblem and name of the Legion of Merit decoration.

(115) Legion of Valor.--Issuable to a recipient of one of the following military decorations: the Congressional Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, the Navy Cross, the Air Force Cross, or the Coast Guard Cross. The plate shall bear the emblem and name of the recipient's decoration.

(116) Legislator.--Issuable to a member of the North Carolina General Assembly. The plate shall bear “The Great Seal of the State of North Carolina” and, as appropriate, the word “Senate” or “House” followed by the Senator's or Representative's assigned seat number.

(117) Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(118) Lifetime Sportsman.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(119) Litter Prevention.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate may bear a phrase and picture appropriate to the subject of litter prevention in North Carolina.

(120) Lung Cancer Research.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(121) Maggie Valley Trout Festival.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(122) Magistrate.--Issuable to a current or retired North Carolina magistrate. A plate issued to a current magistrate shall bear the letters “MJ” followed by a number indicating the district court district the magistrate serves, then by a hyphen, and then by a number indicating the seniority of the magistrate. The Division shall use the number “9” to designate District Court Districts 9 and 9B. A plate issued to a retired magistrate shall bear the phrase “Magistrate, Retired”, the letters “MJX” followed by a hyphen and the number that indicates the district court district the magistrate served, followed by a letter based on the order of issuance of the plates.

(123) March of Dimes.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(124) Marine Corps League.--Issuable to a member of the Marine Corps League. The plate shall bear the words “Marine Corps League” or the letters “MCL” and the emblem of the Marine Corps League. The Division may not issue the plate authorized by this subdivision unless it receives at least 150 applications for the plate.

(125) Marshal.--Issuable to a United States Marshal. The plate shall bear the phrase “U.S. Marshal” followed by a number that represents the district the Marshal serves, with 1 being the Eastern District, 2 being the Middle District, and 3 being the Western District.

(126) Mayor.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(127) Military Reservist.--Issuable to a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces of the United States. The plate shall bear the name and insignia of the appropriate reserve component. Plates shall be numbered sequentially for members of a component with the numbers 1 through 5000 reserved for officers, without regard to rank.

(128) Military Retiree.--Issuable to an individual who has retired from the Armed Forces of the United States. The plate shall bear the word “Retired” and the name and insignia of the branch of service from which the individual retired.

(129) Military Veteran.--Issuable to an individual who served honorably in the Armed Forces of the United States. The plate shall bear the words “U.S. Military Veteran” and the name and insignia of the branch of service in which the individual served. The plate authorized by this subdivision is not subject to the provisions of G.S. 20-79.3A or G.S. 20-79.8 .

(130) Military Wartime Veteran.--Issuable to either a member or veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States who served during a period of war who received a campaign or expeditionary ribbon or medal for their service. If the person is a veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States, then the veteran must be separated from the Armed Forces of the United States under honorable conditions. The plate shall bear a word or phrase identifying the period of war and a replica of the campaign badge or medal awarded for that war. The Division may not issue the plate authorized by this subdivision unless it receives a total of 300 applications for all periods of war, combined, to be represented on this plate. A “period of war” is any of the following:

a. World War I, meaning the period beginning April 16, 1917, and ending November 11, 1918.

b. World War II, meaning the period beginning December 7, 1941, and ending December 31, 1946.

c. The Korean Conflict, meaning the period beginning June 27, 1950, and ending January 31, 1955.

d. The Vietnam Era, meaning the period beginning August 5, 1964, and ending May 7, 1975.

e. Desert Storm, meaning the period beginning August 2, 1990, and ending April 11, 1991.

f. Operation Enduring Freedom, meaning the period beginning October 24, 2001, and ending at a date to be determined.

g. Operation Iraqi Freedom, meaning the period beginning March 19, 2003, and ending at a date to be determined.

h. Any other campaign, expedition, or engagement for which the United States Department of Defense authorizes a campaign badge or medal.

(131) Mission Foundation.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(132) Morehead Planetarium.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(133) Morgan Horse Club.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(134) Mothers Against Drunk Driving.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(135) Mountains-to-Sea Trail.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Mountains-to-Sea Trail” with a background designed by the Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, Inc.

(136) Municipal Council.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(137) Municipality Plate.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(138) National Defense Service Medal.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(139) National Guard Member.--Issuable to an active or a retired member of the North Carolina National Guard. The plate shall bear the phrase “National Guard”. A plate issued to an active member shall bear a number that reflects the seniority of the member; a plate issued to a commissioned officer shall begin with the number “1”; a plate issued to a noncommissioned officer with a rank of E7, E8, or E9 shall begin with the number “1601”; a plate issued to an enlisted member with a rank of E6 or below shall begin with the number “3001”. The plate issued to a retired or separated member shall indicate the member’s retired status.

(140) National Kidney Foundation.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(141) National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(142) National Multiple Sclerosis Society.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall have the logo of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and the telephone number “1-800-FIGHT MS” on the plate.

(143) National Rifle Association.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle. The plate shall bear a phrase or insignia representing the National Rifle Association of America. The Division must receive 300 or more applications for the plate before it may be developed.

(144) National Wild Turkey Federation.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle. The plate shall bear the design of a strutting wild turkey and dogwood blossoms and the words “Working For The Wild Turkey.” The Division must receive 300 or more applications for the plate before it may be developed.

(145) Native American.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate may bear a phrase or an insignia representing Native Americans. The Division must receive 300 or more applications for the plate before it may be developed.

(146) Native Brook Trout.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Native Brook Trout” with a picture of a brook trout native to North Carolina in the background.

(147) NC Agribusiness.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(148) NCAMC/NCACC Clerk.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(149) NC Beekeepers.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(150) NC Children's Promise.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(151) NC Civil War.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(152) NC Coastal Federation.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear a phrase used by the North Carolina Coastal Federation and an image that depicts the coastal area of the State.

(153) NC FIRST Robotics.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(154) NC Fisheries Association.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(155) NC Horse Council.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “NC Horse Council” and a logo designed by the North Carolina Horse Council, Inc.

(156) NC Mining.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(157) NCSC.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(158) NC Surveyors.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Following In Their Footsteps”, a picture representing a surveyor, and the letters “PS” on the right side of the plate.

(159) NC Tennis Foundation.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Play Tennis” and the image of an implement of the tennis sport.

(160) NC Trout Unlimited.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Back the Brookie” and an image that depicts a North Carolina brook trout.

(161) NC Veterinary Medical Association.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(162) NC Victim Assistance Network.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(163) NC Wildlife Federation.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(164) NC Youth Soccer Association.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(165) North Carolina 4-H Development Fund.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(165a) North Carolina Association of Fire Chiefs.--Issuable to a registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall have a black background with a red line and the phrase “NC Fire Officer” across the top and the phrase “North Carolina” along the bottom. The plate shall bear the Association of Fire Chiefs logo on the left side and the letters “FO” on the right side.

(166) North Carolina Bluegrass Association.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(167) North Carolina Cattlemen's Association.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(168) North Carolina Emergency Management Association.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(169) North Carolina Green Industry Council.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(170) North Carolina Libraries.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(171) North Carolina Master Gardener.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the letters “MG” with a logo representing the North Carolina Master Gardeners.

(172) North Carolina Paddle Festival.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(173) North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate may bear a phrase and logo selected by the North Carolina Sheriffs' Association, Inc.

(174) North Carolina State Flag.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(175) North Carolina Wildlife Habitat Foundation.--Issuable to the owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the logo of the North Carolina Wildlife Habitat Foundation on the left side. The numbers or other writing on the plate shall be black and the border shall be black. The plate shall be developed by the Division in consultation with and approved by the North Carolina Wildlife Habitat Foundation. The Division may not issue the plate authorized by this subdivision unless it receives at least 300 applications for the plate.

(176) Nurses.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “First in Nursing” and a representation relating to nursing.

(177) Olympic Games.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate may bear a phrase or insignia representing the Olympic Games.

(178) Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the fraternity's symbol and name.

(179) Operation Coming Home.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(180) Order of the Eastern Star Prince Hall Affiliated.--Issuable to an active member of the Order of the Eastern Star Prince Hall Affiliated in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the Order of the Eastern Star Prince Hall Affiliated logo.

(181) Order of the Long Leaf Pine.--Issuable to a person who has received the award of membership in the Order of the Long Leaf Pine from the Governor. The plate shall bear the phrase “Order of the Long Leaf Pine.”

(182) Outer Banks Preservation Association.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(183) Pamlico-Tar River Foundation.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(184) Pancreatic Cancer Awareness.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(185) Paramedics.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(186) Partially Disabled Veteran.--Issuable to a veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States who suffered a service connected disability of less than 100%. A person may obtain from the Division a special registration plate under this subdivision for the registered owner of a motor vehicle or a motorcycle.

(187) Pearl Harbor Survivor.--Issuable to a veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States who was present at and survived the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The plate will bear the phrase “Pearl Harbor Survivor” and the insignia of the Pearl Harbor Survivors' Association.

(188) P.E.O. Sisterhood.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(189) Personalized.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle. The plate will bear the letters or letters and numbers requested by the owner. The Division may refuse to issue a plate with a letter combination that is offensive to good taste and decency. The Division may not issue a plate that duplicates another plate.

(190) Piedmont Airlines.--This plate is issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate authorized by this subdivision shall bear the phrase “PA” and the Piedmont Speed Bird logo.

(190a) Pilot Mountain State Park.--Issuable to a registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Pilot Mountain National Landmark” with a logo depicting Pilot Mountain State Park.

(191) Pisgah Conservancy.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear (i) the phrase “The Pisgah Conservancy”, (ii) a representation of Looking Glass Rock and rhododendron flowers, and (iii) a background of a blue sky.

(192) POW/MIA.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(193) POW/MIA Bring Them Home.--The plate shall have the phrase “POW/MIA Bring Them Home” with artwork submitted by Rolling Thunder, Inc., Chapter #1 North Carolina and reviewed by the Division to ensure compliance with G.S. 20-79.4(a3) . A person may obtain from the Division a special registration plate under this subdivision for the registered owner of a motor vehicle or a motorcycle. The division may not issue a plate authorized under this subdivision until it receives at least 350 applications for the plate. Applications for motor vehicle special registration plates and motorcycle special registration plates received by the Division each count towards the minimum number of applications necessary to issue a plate under this subdivision.

(194) Prince Hall Mason.--This plate is issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “ Prince Hall Mason ” and a picture of the Masonic symbol.

(195) Prisoner of War.--Issuable to a member or veteran member of the Armed Forces of the United States who has been captured and held prisoner by forces hostile to the United States while serving in the Armed Forces of the United States.

(196) Professional Engineer.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(197) Professional Sports Fan.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle. The plate shall bear the logo of a professional sports team located in North Carolina. The Division shall receive 300 or more applications for a professional sports fan plate before a plate may be issued.

(198) Prostate Cancer Awareness.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(199) Purple Heart Recipient.--Issuable to a recipient of the Purple Heart award. The plate shall bear the phrase “Purple Heart Veteran, Combat Wounded.” A person may obtain from the Division a special registration plate under this subdivision for the registered owner of a motor vehicle or a motorcycle. A motorcycle plate issued under this subdivision shall bear a depiction of the Purple Heart Medal and the phrase “Purple Heart Veteran, Combat Wounded.”

(200) Red Drum.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(201) Red Hat Society.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(202) Register of Deeds.--Issuable to a register of deeds of a county of this State. The plate shall bear the words “Register of Deeds” and the letter “R” followed by a number representing the county of the register of deeds. The number of a county shall be the order of the county in an alphabetical list of counties that assigns number one to the first county in the list. A plate issued to a retired register of deeds shall bear the phrase “Register of Deeds, Retired,” followed by a number that indicates the county where the register of deeds served and a designation indicating the retired status of the register of deeds. For purposes of this subdivision, a “retired register of deeds” is a person (i) with at least 10 years of service as a register of deeds of a county of this State and (ii) who no longer holds that office for any reason other than removal under G.S. 161-27 .

(203) Relay for Life.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(204) Retired Law Enforcement Officers.--The plate authorized by this subdivision shall bear the phrase “ Retired Law Enforcement Officer ” and a representation of a law enforcement badge. The Division must receive 300 or more applications for the plate before it may be developed. The plate is issuable to one of the following:

a. A retired law enforcement officer presenting to the Division, along with the application for the plate, a copy of the officer's retired identification card or letter of retirement.

b. The surviving spouse of a person who had a retired law enforcement officer plate at the time of death so long as the surviving spouse continues to renew the plate and does not remarry.

(205) Retired Legislator.--Issuable to a retired member of the North Carolina General Assembly in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . A person who has served in the North Carolina General Assembly is a retired member for purposes of this subdivision. The plate shall bear “The Great Seal of the State of North Carolina” and, as appropriate, the phrase “Retired Senate Member” or “Retired House Member” followed by a number representing the retired member's district with the letters “RM”. If more than one retired member is from the same district, then the number shall be followed by a letter from A through Z. The plates shall be issued in the order applications are received.

(206) Retired State Highway Patrol.--The plate authorized by this subdivision shall bear the phrase “SHP, Retired.” The Division may not issue the plate authorized by this subdivision unless it receives at least 300 applications for the plate. The plate is issuable to one of the following:

a. An individual who has retired from the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, presenting to the Division, along with the application for the plate, a copy of the retiree's retired identification card or letter of retirement.

b. The surviving spouse of a person who had retired from the State Highway Patrol who, along with the application for the plate, presents a copy of the deceased retiree's identification card or letter of retirement and certifies in writing that the retiree is deceased and that the applicant is not remarried.

(207) RiverLink.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(208) Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation” and a logo approved by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Inc.

(209) Ronald McDonald House.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “House and Hands” with the words “Ronald McDonald House Charities” below the emblem and the letters “RH”.

(210) Save the Honey Bee (HB).--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Save the Honey Bee”, a picture representing a honey bee, and the letters “HB” on the right side of the plate.

(211) Save the Honey Bee (SB).--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Save the Honey Bee”, a picture representing a honey bee on a blue flower inside of a hexagon, a honeycomb background, and the letters “SB” on the right side of the plate.

(212) Save the Sea Turtles.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate may bear the phrase “ Save the Sea Turtles ” and a representation related to sea turtles.

(213) Scenic Rivers.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(214) School Board.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(215) School Technology.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(216) SCUBA.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “SCUBA” and a logo of the Diver Down Flag.

(217) Shag Dancing.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate may bear the phrase “I'd Rather Be Shaggin’” and a picture representing shag dancing.

(218) Share the Road.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear a representation of a bicycle and the phrase “Share the Road”.

(219) Sheriff.--Issuable to a current sheriff or to a retired sheriff who served as sheriff for at least 10 years before retiring. A plate issued to a current sheriff shall bear the word “Sheriff” and the letter “S” followed by a number that indicates the county the sheriff serves. A plate issued to a retired sheriff shall bear the phrase “Sheriff, Retired”, the letter “S” followed by a number that indicates the county the sheriff served, and the letter “X” indicating the sheriff's retired status.

(220) Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(221) Silver Star Recipient.--Issuable to a recipient of the Silver Star. The plate shall bear the emblem of the Silver Star and the words “Silver Star”.

(222) Silver Star Recipient/Disabled Veteran.--Issuable to a recipient of the Silver Star who is also a veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States who suffered a one hundred percent (100%) service-connected disability. The plate shall bear the emblem of the Silver Star laid over the universal symbol for the handicapped and the words “Silver Star.” For the purposes of a fee for this plate, it shall be treated as a one hundred percent (100%) Disabled Veteran plate.

(223) Sneads Ferry Shrimp Festival.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(224) Soil and Water Conservation.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(225) Special Forces Association.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(226) Special Olympics.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(227) Sport Fishing.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(228) Square Dance Clubs.--Issuable to a member of a recognized square dance organization exempt from corporate income tax under G.S. 105-130.11(a)(5) . The plate shall bear a word or phrase identifying the club and the emblem of the club. The Division shall not issue a dance club plate authorized by this subdivision unless it receives at least 300 applications for that dance club plate.

(229) S.T.A.R.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(230) State Attraction.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate may bear a phrase or an insignia representing a publicly owned or nonprofit State or federal attraction located in North Carolina.

(231) State Government Official.--Issuable to elected and appointed members of State government in accordance with G.S. 20-79.5 .

(232) Stock Car Racing Theme.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle pursuant to G.S. 20-81.12 . This is a series of plates bearing an emblem, seal, other symbol or design displaying themes of professional stock car auto racing, or professional stock car auto racing drivers. The Division shall not develop any plate in the series without a license to use copyrighted or registered words, symbols, trademarks, or designs associated with the plate. The plate shall be designed in consultation with and approved by the person authorized to provide the State with the license to use the words, symbols, trademarks, or designs associated with the plate. The Division shall not pay a royalty for the license to use the copyrighted or registered words, symbols, trademarks, or designs associated with the plate.

(233) Street Rod Owner.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(234) Support NC Education.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(235) Support Our Troops.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear a picture of a soldier and a child and shall bear the words: “Support Our Troops”.

(236) Support Soccer.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the phrase “Support Soccer” and a logo designed by the North Carolina Soccer Hall of Fame, Inc.

(237) Surveyor Plate.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the words “Following In Their Footsteps” and shall bear a picture of a transit.

(238) Sustainable Fisheries.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(239) Sweet Potato.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(240) Tarheel Classic Thunderbird Club.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(241) Toastmasters Club.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(242) Tobacco Heritage.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle. The plate shall bear a picture of a tobacco leaf and plow. The Division may not issue the plate authorized by this subdivision unless it receives at least 300 applications for the plate.

(243) Topsail Island Shoreline Protection.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(244) Town of Oak Island.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(245) Transportation Personnel.--Issuable to various members of the Divisions of the Department of Transportation. The plate shall bear the letters “DOT” followed by a number from 1 to 85, as designated by the Governor.

(246) Travel and Tourism.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(247) Turtle Rescue Team.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(247a) United States Army Special Forces.--Issuable to a member or veteran of the United States Army Special Forces. The plate shall bear the name United States Army Special Forces and the insignia of the United States Army Special Forces.

(248) United States Service Academy.--Issuable to a graduate of one of the service academies, upon furnishing to the Division proof of graduation. The plate shall bear the name of the specific service academy with an emblem that designates the specific service academy being represented. The Division, with the cooperation of each service academy, shall develop a special plate for each of the service academies. The Division must receive a combined total of 600 or more applications for all the plates authorized by this subdivision before a specific service academy plate may be developed. The plates authorized by this subdivision are not subject to the provisions of G.S. 20-79.3A or G.S. 20-79.8 .

(249) University Health Systems of Eastern Carolina.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(250) US Equine Rescue League.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(251) U.S. Navy Submarine Veteran.--Issuable to a veteran of the United States Navy Submarine Service. The plate shall bear the phrase “United States Navy Submarine Veteran” and shall bear a representation of the Submarine Service Qualification insignia overlaid upon a representation of the State of North Carolina. The Division may not issue the plate authorized by this subdivision unless it receives at least 150 applications for the plate.

(252) U.S. Representative.--Issuable to a United States Representative for North Carolina. The plate shall bear the phrase “U.S. House” and shall be issued on the basis of Congressional district numbers.

(253) U.S. Senator.--Issuable to a United States Senator for North Carolina. The plates shall bear the phrase “U.S. Senate” and shall be issued on the basis of seniority represented by the numbers 1 and 2.

(254) USA Triathlon.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(255) USO of NC.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(256) The V Foundation for Cancer Research.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear a phrase and insignia representing The V Foundation for Cancer Research.

(257) Veterans of Foreign Wars.--Issuable to a member or a supporter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. The plate shall bear the words “Veterans of Foreign Wars” or “VFW” and the emblem of the VFW. The Division may not issue the plate authorized by this subdivision unless it receives at least 300 applications for the plate.

(258) Victory Junction Gang Camp.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(259) Vietnam Veterans of America.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(260) Volunteers in Law Enforcement.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(261) Watermelon.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle. The plate shall bear a picture representing a slice of watermelon. The Division may not issue the plate authorized by this subdivision unless it receives at least 300 applications for the plate.

(262) Wildlife Resources.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear a picture representing a native wildlife species occurring in North Carolina.

(263) Wrightsville Beach.--Issuable to a registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the Town of Wrightsville Beach logo followed by the four assigned or personalized characters ending with the suffix WB.

(264) YMCA.--Expired July 1, 2016.

(265) Zeta Phi Beta Sorority.--Issuable to the registered owner of a motor vehicle in accordance with G.S. 20-81.12 . The plate shall bear the sorority's name and symbol.

(c) Repealed by Laws 1991, (Reg. Sess. 1992), c. 1042, § 1 .