In a major update to vehicle identification across the state, Maine is set to replace its long-standing Chickadee Plate with a fresh new design: the Pine Tree Plate. Rooted in Maine’s rich history, the Pine Tree Plate not only pays homage to the state’s heritage but also enhances public safety by ensuring that license plates remain clear and legible for law enforcement.
“Damaged or worn-out plates on our roadways increase risks to the general public, and worn-out plates reduce law enforcement’s ability to be effective when handling crimes,” said Secretary Bellows, emphasizing the critical role of well-maintained license plates in vehicle identification.
The current Chickadee Plate, in circulation for nearly 25 years, is scheduled for a massive replacement effort. According to Deputy Secretary Curtis, over 900,000 Chickadee Plates will be replaced between May 2025 and May 2026—a monumental logistical undertaking coordinated by BMV staff, municipal partners, and Nova Scotia-based Waldale Manufacturing, which has been contracted to produce the new plates.
Under LD 1965, “An Act to Authorize the Secretary of State to Provide a New General Issue of License Plates,” two new designs have been introduced: one featuring the iconic Pine Tree and North Star, and a plain plate with blue identification numbers and letter combinations. Mary Catus, a dedicated employee in the Department of the Secretary of State, generously donated the design of the Pine Tree Plate.
While Mainers are encouraged to replace peeling or deteriorating plates to avoid potential issues such as evading registration fees or tolls, the BMV’s current registrations tracking system lacks a mechanism to monitor plate usage duration. The issuance of a new design is intended to ensure fairness for law-abiding drivers throughout the state.
Importantly, owners of specialty plates, including Agriculture and Conservation plates, will not be affected by this change. For those wishing to reserve their current plate numbers—including vanity and low-digit plates—BMV officials have advised that reservations are not immediately required, with a process set to begin later this spring.
As the transition unfolds, returned Chickadee Plates at municipal and BMV offices will be collected and recycled, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in Maine’s vehicle identification system.