Vanity Plates

A license plate number normally is assigned by the issuing government, but some governments allow you to select your tag number or lettering. Using the number of characters allowed, you can create a message, such as your name or a saying of some sort.

Offensive Messages

Issuers of vanity plates prohibit vehicle owners from selecting a vulgar, racist or offensive remark for vanity plates. Even if an offensive message gets past the government's screeners, a fellow motorist will most likely report you in short order and your tags will be canceled.

Specialty Plates

Some governments offer plates in a variety of styles and color schemes. Choices include plates that promote---and often raise funds for---a state's industry or landscape, college alma mater or social causes such as the environment or breast cancer awareness.

Fees

Most states charge an additional fee for vanity or specialty plates. These fees either go to cover the cost of the plate or may be donated to a nonprofit organization. In Maryland, for example, the fee for a Chesapeake Bay-themed plate goes to the Save the Bay Fund.

European-style Tags

In Australia, motorists may obtain European-style "wide" tags if their vehicle is made to take them or if it is not designed for standard-sized tags. In the United States, drivers who live in states that only require a rear license plate generally can place Euro-style tags on the front, but you should check with your state first.

Source:

US Legal

Virginia Specialty Plates

Euro Plates