What's on your plate? Make it Crimson to go!

Cougar plates have been wildly popular since being introduced in the mid-90s, as there are more Cougar plates on the road than all other state university plates combined.

Since WSU plates generate much-needed scholarship support for WSU students, we wanted to have even more WSU plates on the road.  To achieve this, a new plate design was needed.  Because the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) currently offers about 45 special plates, the WSU plate needed to stand out.  Our design inspiration came from “Ol’ Crimson,” the crimson WSU flag flown on the ESPN College GameDay television program, and the crimson football helmets the Cougars wear.  The result is a unique all-crimson plate with silvery-white numbers/letters and Cougar logo (pretty darn cool, huh?).

No other plate on the road looks anything like it.  We believe Cougs across the State will love it. As will everyone else who sees a Cougar plate on the road!

How do I get the new all-crimson Cougar plate?

1. Visit your local DOL office.  Find a local office near you.

2. Visit the DOL website and download an application. You can fax or mail in the completed application or simply take the application to a DOL office near you. 

3. When purchasing a new or used car, ask your car dealer for the new all-crimson Cougar plate

4. Individuals who currently have WSU special or WSU personalized plates can get their same number/message on the new all-crimson plates through the DOL. You must visit your local DOL office to replace your current WSU plate with the new all-crimson plate. The DOL will charge a replacement fee to retain your current message/number. Contact your local DOL office for exact costs and fees. 

5. Personalized WSU plates are also available. You must complete the online form and mail it to the DOL Office in Olympia, or visit the King County Licensing Division.

What does the new plate cost?

Costs and fees vary.  Contact your local DOL office for specific cost information.

Step Up and Be Counted

Drivers who wish to receive gift credit from WSU for their plate donation can CLICK HERE to send registration info via email.  Or simply fax a clear photocopy of the vehicle registration to 509-335-8419, or mail it to the WSU Foundation, PO Box 641925, Pullman, Washington, 99164-1925.   Of the $30 annual WSU license plate fee, $28 is a tax-deductible gift to support scholarships at WSU. 

FAQ's

Do I have to be an alumnus/a of WSU to purchase a Cougar plate?
No.  Anybody and everybody can purchase Cougar plates. If you like to support scholarships and show your Cougar Pride, then owning a Cougar plate is a right way to go.

Do I have to wait until my tab renewal to purchase a Cougar plate?
No.  You can purchase a Cougar plate at any point during the year.  Like right now!  Click on the link above to download an application or visit your local DOL office.

How do I purchase Cougar plates?
When you decide you want to show your Cougar pride with a WSU Cougar license plate, all you need to do is complete the application and mail, fax, or take it into a DOL office.  It's that easy.  Once you have a Cougar plate you simply follow the standard renewal process.

How much of the special plate registration fee is directed to Washington State University?
$28 of your special plate fee goes directly to the WSU Scholarship fund to provide scholarships for deserving students at Washington State University. 

When will I receive my Cougar plates?
The plates are mailed to the registered owner within two business days of purchase.

What will my new plate number be?
Your new registration will show your new license plate number, which is assigned by the DOL computer system.  Plates are assigned in numerical order when a transaction is finalized.

Can I keep my plate when I sell my car?
Yes!  These plates may be transferred to your new car or similar.  The state simply requires that the registered owner of the new car and plates remains the same.

Is it appropriate to honk when you see other Cougar plates on the road?
Yes, but only to the tune of the WSU Fight Song!