Promotional License Plates Benefit Charities

Florida is not the only state that offers special license plates to benefit charities, but it was one of the first. In the Sunshine state, you can purchase license plates supporting everything from saving manatees to supporting kids' sports.

Though these plates are costlier, the extra funds go, not to the state's coffers, but to the charities they promote. This is in stark contrast to the cost of private number plates, often referred to as vanity plates. The extra you pay for vanity plates goes directly to the state.

Having a license plate that promotes a good cause, just as having one that spells out your name, is a way to make a statement and customize your car. Of course, if you don't mind putting the extra money into it, you could purchase one that does both. Why not try a breast cancer awareness plate with your personal message? Or maybe you'd prefer some other charity to go with your personal tag number? These are called charitable private number plates, and are available in some states.

Not all states offer license plates that support charities. Most states do already have private number plates. In fact, if your favorite charity is not among the ones from which you can choose, or if your state doesn't have a charitable plate to offer, then why not use your personalized tag to create your own? "Sav-Whls" is probably going to be understood by anyone who reads it, even if there is not a picture.

Supporting your favorite charity by purchasing a special license plate says that you support their program. The private number plates only say that you want your message on your car. Nothing is wrong with that, but it sure would be nice if it promoted something more. It can, if you put that private number plate on one of the charity plates that are currently available. That makes it a win-win for you and for charity.