The California Arts Plate was created through special legislation in 1994. Since then, the iconic image has become famous worldwide, and proceeds from the plate have provided millions of dollars to support arts programs in California.
The California Arts Plate is a joint project between the California Arts Council and the Department of Motor Vehicles and was the first specialty plate program in the U.S. designed solely to benefit the arts. The plate image is titled "Coastline" and was created by renowned California artist Wayne Thiebaud in 1993.
Proceeds from sales and renewals of California’s Arts Plate support arts education programs across California through grants from the California Arts Council, a state agency.
Drivers in California can purchase standard-number plates through the DMV for $50 with a $40 renewal fee. Drivers who choose to enhance the plate with personalized letters and numbers may do so for $103 with an annual $83 renewal fee. Arts Plate sales and renewal fees may be tax deductible for individuals and businesses.
Joanne KozbeRg, THEN-director of the California Arts Council; Sylvester Stallone; Wayne Thiebaud; and Governor Pete Wilson launched the California Arts Plate program on April 29, 1993 at the Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank.
California Arts Drivers
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