NJ Assembly Bill A1436

United States Coast Guard License Plates

This bill would authorize special New Jersey license plates for current and former active members of the U.S. Coast Guard and certain family members.

New Jersey
⚓ USCG
Special Plate

“The United States Coast Guard plays a critical role in protecting our coastal communities, supporting maritime safety, and serving our nation with honor. These specialty plates are a meaningful way for New Jersey residents to recognize the sacrifice and service of Coast Guard members and their families.”

— Assemblyman Erik Simonsen
Legislative Action Needed

Bill A1436 Needs to Be Heard by the Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee

Supporters are encouraged to respectfully contact committee leadership and request that the bill be posted for a committee hearing.

What it doesCreates a special Coast Guard license plate through the NJ MVC.
Who it helpsCurrent or honorably separated Coast Guard members and certain family members.
Fees$50 application fee plus $10 annual renewal fee.
Launch conditionRequires startup funding and 500 completed applications before MVC begins work.

Plain-language summary

A1436 would allow the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission to issue special license plates honoring the United States Coast Guard. The plate would include the Coast Guard seal and wording or a slogan selected by the MVC in consultation with the Coast Guard.

Main idea: The bill creates a visible way for eligible New Jersey drivers to show Coast Guard service while directing plate-fee proceeds to a dedicated Coast Guard license plate fund.

Who could apply?

  • Active members of the United States Coast Guard
  • Former active members honorably separated from the Coast Guard
  • A spouse or parent of an eligible Coast Guard member
  • A business-owned vehicle, if the eligible person is the principal owner or stockholder

Applicants would need to provide proof satisfactory to the MVC showing Coast Guard eligibility.

What would it cost?

Initial application fee$50Plus regular vehicle registration fees.
Annual renewal fee$10Collected each year after issuance.

After MVC administrative costs are reimbursed, additional plate fees would be deposited into the United States Coast Guard License Plate Fund and appropriated annually to the Coast Guard.

When would the plate become available?

  1. Startup funding provided: The Coast Guard or its designee must provide non-public money, up to $25,000, to offset MVC startup costs.
  2. 500 applications collected: At least 500 completed applications must be submitted to MVC as the initial order.
  3. 13-month waiting period: The act becomes operative on the first day of the 13th month after both conditions are satisfied.
If the startup funding and 500 applications are not completed within 12 months after enactment, the bill expires.