Arizona Wins America's Best License Plate Award

PHOENIX--April 8, 2012: The Automobile License Plate Collectors Association (ALPCA, Inc.) has overwhelmingly voted that Arizona has the best new license plate in the United States. Last year, Arizona introduced a Centennial plate to honor the 100th anniversary of statehood in 2012. Since 1970, ALPCA recognizes a state with the best new license plate design of the year. This year marks the 41st anniversary of the award and the second award for Arizona after winning in 1996 for its general issue plate.

“I am pleased to announce that the Great State of Arizona is this year's recipient of ALPCA's Best Plate Award”

"I am pleased to announce that the Great State of Arizona is this year's recipient of ALPCA's Best Plate Award," said ALPCA President Greg Gibson. "Arizona's outstanding Centennial plate topped plates from nine other states." ALPCA members worldwide were asked to vote based on two judging criteria: the overall attractiveness of the design and its legibility as a tool for public safety and law enforcement. "Congratulations to the residents of the Grand Canyon State, Governor Jan Brewer and to the license plate design team," stated Gibson.

"The Centennial license plate commemorates an historic milestone for the State of Arizona. To see our emblem receive national recognition on the heels of our 100^th anniversary is both an honor and a glowing source of pride for Arizonans," said Governor Jan Brewer. "I thank the Arizona Centennial Commission, the Department of Transportation and the Department of Public Safety for advocating and seeing to fruition this very special plate."

Ironically, the colorful design of New Mexico's Centennial Plate won the contest last year. Although Arizona and its neighbor are both celebrating their centennials this year, the contest is based on the year the plate was first introduced, which was 2010 for New Mexico and 2011 for Arizona. Finishing as runner-up and third place to Arizona were new general issue plates from Nebraska and Louisiana, respectively.

Since the Centennial Plate was introduced last fall, thousands of Arizona motorists have bought them. The popular specialty license plate was designed by P.S. Studios of Phoenix. Arizona motorists have the option of buying the license plate for $25, of which $17 benefits the Arizona Centennial 2012 Foundation, a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization. Visit Service Arizona to purchase this specialty plate.