State License Plates

[W4MAJ]

Greetings from 4 land,

I've ranted in this forum before about how much I dislike Tennessee's Amateur Radio tags. This is directed to my Tennessee neighbors: Have any of you petitioned the state to change and/or improve the existing design? What success, if any, did you have?

Now what about the rest of you in the other 49 states?

I’m going to take a look at the other state’s tags and propose something new. I’m sure I’ll need x-number of other hams to sign a petition approving the new design before Uncle Phil at the state capital will consider the change.

Stay groovy,

[kg4dci]

As somebody who lives in TN what exactly do you have a problem with the current ARS tags? And what would you suggest changing them to?

Frankly the current tags are great IMHO.

[W4MAJ]

Quote[/b] (kg4dci @ Jan. 30 2007,13:50)]As somebody who lives in TN what exactly do you have a problem with the current ARS tags? #And what would you suggest changing them to?

Frankly the current tags are great IMHO.
Tennessee has spent a lot of time and effort designing new tags and redesigning old ones. The current tag just doesn't blow my skirt up. I'm curious if others feel this way. I'll put you down as a "no".

http://tennessee.gov/revenue/vehicle/licenseplates/emergency/amateurradio.jpg

[ke4pjw]

Quote[/b] (W4MAJ @ Jan. 30 2007,05:58)]This is directed to my Tennessee neighbors: Have any of you petitioned the state to change and/or improve the existing design? What success, if any, did you have?
No, I have not. I like them.

The only change I would make is to replace "Emergency" with "Amateur Radio".

Other than that, I like my easy to read, black and white tags.

[N2RJ]

Quote[/b] (kg4dci @ Jan. 30 2007,14:50)]As somebody who lives in TN what exactly do you have a problem with the current ARS tags? And what would you suggest changing them to?

Frankly the current tags are great IMHO.
They say "Emergency" which can possibly give some people a real sense of whackerism.

I like New York's, but I'm OK with New Jersey's.

It just says "Amateur Radio" and "New Jersey" and has my callsign on it.

No mention about "Emergency" because I'm not driving an emergency vehicle.

[ne3r]

Emergency? What is that supposed to mean?

[N2RJ]

Quote[/b] (N3PAQ @ Jan. 30 2007,15:04)]Emergency? What is that supposed to mean?
In many states ham plates are covered under emergency services.

They're in the same category as "Firefighter" "EMT" etc.

[ke4pjw]

Quote[/b] (W4MAJ @ Jan. 30 2007,07:00)]http://tennessee.gov/revenue/vehicle/licenseplates/emergency/amateurradio.jpg
Actually, that is not what the tag looks like. (Yes, I know that is what is on the department's website)

Tennessee is blue, cursive and not abbreviated.

[kn4ds]

I like Georgia's... it looks like every other tag the state issues, but has "Amateur Radio" and your callsign.

http://motor.etax.dor.ga.gov/motor/plates/images/2004/ar.jpg

[ne3r]

Quote[/b] (AB2MH @ Jan. 30 2007,13:06)]Quote[/b] (N3PAQ @ Jan. 30 2007,15:04)]Emergency? What is that supposed to mean?
In many states ham plates are covered under emergency services.

They're in the same category as "Firefighter" "EMT" etc.
I guess that is good for the egos for some of those RACES/ARES folks. I like Maryland's, simple, just says Amateur Radio Operator - makes perfect sense.

[kc7mrq]

Come to Montana if you like pretty license plates. We have the greatest number of specialized plates in the nation. Over 20+ different plates to choose from.

[KC9JIQ]

Quote[/b] (KE4UWL @ Jan. 30 2007,13:16)]I like Georgia's... it looks like every other tag the state issues, but has "Amateur Radio" and your callsign.
BTW I like Illinois Ham plates.

It's SIMPLE, it does NOT SPELL OUT a web page, I find it funny these states that feel the need to put the state's website address on license plates, now what is that saying about the general populous?

[N2RJ]

New Jersey:

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/108/293513317_a393b62973_b.jpg

New York:

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/106/293517454_1edeb00632_b.jpg

[W5HTW]

I agree, Tennessee's license plates are a disgrace to amateur radio.

If the state wants me to drive an emergency vehicle, they will give me one, with red lights, siren, ladders, oxygen tanks, stretchers, etc., and will train me to be a cop, medica, and firefighter, and pay me to do the job.

Otherwise, I'm an "amateur radio operator" and NM's tags say "Amateur Radio" on them.

Seems to me, if one is a private pilot (another federal licensee) in TN, their license plate should read AIRBORNE EMERGENCY TECH.

Were I living in TN, I would not get ham plates. I'd get regular plates and then put my call letter stickers in the corner of my rear window. I do not drive an emergency vehicle.

Ed

[KC9JIQ]

Quote[/b] (W5HTW @ Jan. 30 2007,16:25)]Were I living in TN, I would not get ham plates. I'd get regular plates and then put my call letter stickers in the corner of my rear window. I do not drive an emergency vehicle.

Ed
Ed, you DON'T live in Tennessee?

Okay, then why the Rant? Complaining about what happens in another state is like Canada caring for who the citizens of Arkansas elected for Governor. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

If you don't want "emergency" on your states plates, that's fine, but looking over this topic, the Fine folks of Tennessee seem okay with "emergency" on their plates, I'm all for State Sovereignty, and the will of the people.

The State of California approved Medicinal marijuana, and that is cool with me, and if the Fine folks of Tennessee want to have EMERGENCY on the plates, that is fine too, HECK EVEN IF A STATE SUCCEEDS FROM THE UNION, I'm alright with that, as long as it's the true voice of the citizenry.

[ai4ep]

http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif you could just put your old CB callsign on it http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

[KC2ESD]

Quote[/b] ]you could just put your old CB callsign on it

Yes you can, its called a Vanity Plate.

I know one Ham who would, I mean Should be making License Plates and that is VE7KFM. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif Cuff Him and Stuff Him.

[WB2WIK]

What about this one?

[WB2WIK]

Then again, the way things are nowadays who can afford to drive?

[KE4YD]

As a resident of Tennessee I dislike the word emergency on the plate. I am not driving an emergency vehicle. I can't tell you the countless times I have been asked if I am a volunteer firefighter, rescue squad member etc. I've even had the police pull me over and want me to explain the tag. But then I get to explain amateur radio to someone. All in all, I had much rather the plate just said amateur radio.
Good luck getting anything changed in this state.
by the way Tennessee has more than 90 specialty plates available

[W5HTW]

Quote[/b] (KE4YD @ Jan. 30 2007,17:44)]As a resident of Tennessee I dislike the word emergency on the plate. I am not driving an emergency vehicle. I can't tell you the countless times I have been asked if I am a volunteer firefighter, rescue squad member etc. I've even had the police pull me over and want me to explain the tag. But then I get to explain amateur radio to someone. All in all, I had much rather the plate just said amateur radio.
Good luck getting anything changed in this state.
Yep. Probably 3 hams out of 100 actually do anything ever relating to emergencies. So the rest of them should not be allowed to have amateur radio plates, as those plates designate them as some sort of emergency vehicle? As I said in the first thread on this subject, it disenfranchises the hams in Tennessee who do NOT want to play emergency.

It is true, though, that most states issue amateur radio license plates under a different fee setup from vanity plates. Here in NM the fee is 3 bucks (plus the standard plate fee.)

This is "probably" because they still think, under some antiquated system, that hams are capable in emergencies. For most of us, the main emergency we can handle is how to use an HT instead of a cell phone to tell the wife/husband to get the bread on the way home.

One of the ham license plates I liked best, I have to admit, was Mass. I had the call sign then of W1BXP. The plate did not have the words "amateur radio" on it anywhere. But between the W1 and the BXP there was a lightning bolt. Kinda neat, and fairly nice colors, too.

Have had ham plates in Colorado, Virginia, Mass, NM, Delaware, and NY. None of them suggested I was driving an emergency vehicle. And I wasn't.

Ed

[KC9JIQ]

Quote[/b] ]As I said in the first thread on this subject, it disenfranchises the hams in Tennessee who do NOT want to play emergency.


Then don't get the plates! They are not mandatory ya know..... http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif


Quote[/b] ]This is "probably" because they still think, under some antiquated system, that hams are capable in emergencies. For most of us, the main emergency we can handle is how to use an HT instead of a cell phone to tell the wife/husband to get the bread on the way home.

*sigh, Katrina anyone? I don't remember any confusions on how to use a HT during Katrina, but I supposed it did happen. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[kd7msc]

Oregon checking in. (hope this picture works) Well not so great. Sorry

[n0iu]

Instead of bickering about the appearance of the plate itself, you should complain about something that really matters. In Missouri, there is a movement forfore the state legislature to remove the vanity fee. (You can go to your state and see if there is a fee at http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/local/plates.html)

Scott NØIU

[kg4dci]

Quote[/b] (W5HTW @ Jan. 30 2007,16:25)]I agree, Tennessee's license plates are a disgrace to amateur radio.

If the state wants me to drive an emergency vehicle, they will give me one, with red lights, siren, ladders, oxygen tanks, stretchers, etc., and will train me to be a cop, medica, and firefighter, and pay me to do the job.

Otherwise, I'm an "amateur radio operator" and NM's tags say "Amateur Radio" on them.

Seems to me, if one is a private pilot (another federal licensee) in TN, their license plate should read AIRBORNE EMERGENCY TECH.

Were I living in TN, I would not get ham plates. I'd get regular plates and then put my call letter stickers in the corner of my rear window. I do not drive an emergency vehicle.

Ed
The law under which the state made ham radio plates is the same section as plates for volunteer firefighters, off duty police officers, etc... I'd much rather have 'emergency' on my plate than have to pay for a specialized license that says something else...

The current ham tags cost the same as a normal license plate... if we were to ask for special plates, then we'd have to pay the extra$50 a year to have them... no thanks...

BTW, this does not affect me in anyway what so ever, my current truck has an E-##### plate on it... So, this would have no affect on me... I just don't see anybody acting like their a cop or emt because they have e-tags on their car.

[kn4ds]

Quote[/b] (kg4dci @ Jan. 31 2007,08:19)]The current ham tags cost the same as a normal license plate... if we were to ask for special plates, then we'd have to pay the extra$50 a year to have them... no thanks...
Wow... in Georgia, we don't pay for our tags at all. Not even the normal $20 fee that normal tags have. We pay the tax on our vehicle, and the tag is completely free.

We just have to show our amateur license... we do not have to be a member of RACES or ARES or anything else... just a licensed ham.

Looking at that ARRL page, it looks like Georgia and a small handful of other states have it pretty good when it comes to the license plates.

[k6jpd]

Quote[/b] (kg4dci @ Jan. 31 2007,06:19)][quote=
The current ham tags cost the same as a normal license plate... #
actually, that isn't exactly correct. there is an extra $25.00 charge. it may be waived ONLY if you PAY to belong to ARES.

(from the TN webpage)

Amateur Radio

Available to: Owners or lessees of passenger motor vehicles who are residents of the state of Tennessee and who hold an un- revoked and un-expired official amateur radio license issues by the FCC.

Annual Fee: $46.50 or $21.50 - Auto; $39.50 or $14.50 - Motorcycle. If the applicant is a member of emergency or rescue squad or ARES, the additional $25.00 is waived



i'm a "snowbird"... part time (summer) in TN, part time (winter) in FL. I agree the TN AR plate could be improved a lot. but i would not support changing it if it involved any additional fees. my FL AR plate is NOT a "vanity" plate under the law and doesn't cost any more than a "regular" plate.

[W5HTW]

The problem is this: Amateur radio equipped vehicles are NOT emergency vehicles. It's just that simple. There must be a hundred thousand private cars in America with ham plates. Suggesting to anyone anywhere that they are emergency vehicles is misleading, deceptive, and possibly dangerous, even leaving out the "wannabe cop" aspect. It is similar to installing a hood bug guard on the front of your vehicle with the backwards word "AMBULANCE" written on it.

Consequently I believe it presents amateur radio in a very bad light, whether in Tennessee or anywhere else, as it furthers the notion that we are pretend cops/medics, etc., when the person driving that vehicle may never have even known a cop, let alone been one.

Kinda like wearing a SKI PATROL jacket while you're on the slope, or a LIFEGUARD jacket on the beach, when you aren't either one.

Bottom line: Amateur radio vehicles are not emergency vehicles.

There are a good many newer hams who tend to WISH a ham license made them into some sort of authority,(and a lot, apparently, who get a license solely to be some sort of authority) but in reality it just gives them permission to talk on the radio.

Ed

[WA7KKP]

This brings to mind the old joke --

Help stamp out licence plates -- go to prison . . . !!!!

Back in the early 60's Montana had a very simple plate -- aluminum with the state outline and numbers (call signs) pressed into it and painted black. Now they are quite attractive with the mountain design silk-screened on the blank.

Most states have adopted a "fancy" pattern, mostly to deter counterfeit tags. Missouri has a special pattern imprinted that is very difficult to copy, and easy to determine whether the tag is official or not.

Gary WA7KKP

[KC2PFV]

You guys do realize the entire purpose of having an "Amateur Radio" plate is to say that you are willing to provide communications if the need arises? Having those plates are not for your own pride, but rather because you are willing to donate your time to the good of the people if needed.

If you aren't into providing Emergency Communications (your loss), you shouldn't get the plates. They are there for people who want to use their license for the MAIN reason we are around today, TO HELP OTHERS. We can "play" radio when we are not called upon, but when the need arises, WE SHOULD help others... AR would be long gone if it wasn't for the EMCOMM services many of us provide.

Don't forget that.
Most of you brag about EMCOMM when you try to get others to see AR in a positive light, yet you fail to be part of the system. Many hams are contesters, DXers, etc and are part of the National Traffic Systems and ARES/RACES. I'm an NTS op myself.

73 de KC2PFV

[N2RJ]

Quote[/b] (KC2PFV @ Feb. 01 2007,16:44)]You guys do realize the entire purpose of having an "Amateur Radio" plate is to say that you are willing to provide communications if the need arises? Having those plates are not for your own pride, but rather because you are willing to donate your time to the good of the people if needed.

If you aren't into providing Emergency Communications (your loss), you shouldn't get the plates. They are there for people who want to use their license for the MAIN reason we are around today, TO HELP OTHERS. We can "play" radio when we are not called upon, but when the need arises, WE SHOULD help others... AR would be long gone if it wasn't for the EMCOMM services many of us provide.

Don't forget that.
Most of you brag about EMCOMM when you try to get others to see AR in a positive light, yet you fail to be part of the system. Many hams are contesters, DXers, etc and are part of the National Traffic Systems and ARES/RACES. I'm an NTS op myself.

73 de KC2PFV
I agree with you mostly, but...

I think that the plates would serve a better purpose if they said "Amateur Radio" rather than "Emergency."

The problem is that we're not Emergency vehicles all the time, nor are we allowed to have lights and sirens that allow real emergency vehicles to break traffic rules. There is no need for that in the ARS.

I haven't even covered the whacker factor yet. You know there are folks who have the word "emergency" on their plates and will use that to pull over people and otherwise play cop.

[KC2PFV]

Quote[/b] (W5HTW @ Feb. 01 2007,14:16)]The problem is this: Amateur radio equipped vehicles are NOT emergency vehicles. It's just that simple. There must be a hundred thousand private cars in America with ham plates. Suggesting to anyone anywhere that they are emergency vehicles is misleading, deceptive, and possibly dangerous, even leaving out the "wannabe cop" aspect. It is similar to installing a hood bug guard on the front of your vehicle with the backwards word "AMBULANCE" written on it.

Consequently I believe it presents amateur radio in a very bad light, whether in Tennessee or anywhere else, as it furthers the notion that we are pretend cops/medics, etc., when the person driving that vehicle may never have even known a cop, let alone been one.

Kinda like wearing a SKI PATROL jacket while you're on the slope, or a LIFEGUARD jacket on the beach, when you aren't either one.

Bottom line: Amateur radio vehicles are not emergency vehicles.

There are a good many newer hams who tend to WISH a ham license made them into some sort of authority,(and a lot, apparently, who get a license solely to be some sort of authority) but in reality it just gives them permission to talk on the radio.

Ed
You don't need a license to help out in an emergency. AR ops have traditionally been able to setup communications between places on the whim. That is why they are part of the "Emergency" system. They may not be a EMT, Firefighter or Cop, but they are trained in COMMUNICATIONS... One helps sick people, one helps put out fires and the other provides safety. The AR OP. provides communications when other methods are not available. Sure, most of them are never needed, but it is a FREE service provided by well intentioned citizens of this country. If you feel that having the ability to communicate during a disaster while everyone else doesn't have the equipment or knowledge, and you feel you aren't morally required to help out, well then you have serious problems with your head.

The government hasn't maintained the Amateur Radio SERVICE because they like to let us play with our radios and collect QSL cards. They do it because they know we are crucial to helping out in emergencies when all else fails. You may be a cop or firefighter and not know what to do when your radios fails... That is where experienced ham ops come in. Thus, the reason why removing any form of "testing" for the service is A MAJOR problem...

73 de KC2PFV

[KC2PFV]

Quote[/b] (AB2MH @ Feb. 01 2007,14:49)]Quote[/b] (KC2PFV @ Feb. 01 2007,16:44)]You guys do realize the entire purpose of having an "Amateur Radio" plate is to say that you are willing to provide communications if the need arises? Having those plates are not for your own pride, but rather because you are willing to donate your time to the good of the people if needed.

If you aren't into providing Emergency Communications (your loss), you shouldn't get the plates. They are there for people who want to use their license for the MAIN reason we are around today, TO HELP OTHERS. We can "play" radio when we are not called upon, but when the need arises, WE SHOULD help others... AR would be long gone if it wasn't for the EMCOMM services many of us provide.

Don't forget that.
Most of you brag about EMCOMM when you try to get others to see AR in a positive light, yet you fail to be part of the system. Many hams are contesters, DXers, etc and are part of the National Traffic Systems and ARES/RACES. I'm an NTS op myself.

73 de KC2PFV
I agree with you mostly, but...

I think that the plates would serve a better purpose if they said "Amateur Radio" rather than "Emergency."

The problem is that we're not Emergency vehicles all the time, nor are we allowed to have lights and sirens that allow real emergency vehicles to break traffic rules. There is no need for that in the ARS.

I haven't even covered the whacker factor yet. You know there are folks who have the word "emergency" on their plates and will use that to pull over people and otherwise play cop.
Yes, very true... I guess "Amateur Radio" is better than Emergency, but in essence, they are both the same thing... While you can't do those things, you are part of the emergency system in America. Like it or not, the government could rely on us for communications if the need ever arose.

Maybe this was bigger during the days of the Cold War, but nowadays we face terrorism. Don't forget that.....

73 de KC2PFV

[W5HTW]

None of my cars are emergency vehicles.

That's enough of that. You guys can play savior. I've done my share of emergency communications support WITHOUT seeking glory or public awareness. Just do it quietly, and get back to the fun of ham radio. Been doing that for nearly 51 years, hope to do it a few more. But ....

"Don't need no stinkin' emergency vehicle!"

No hard feelings, but I'll say it one more time. I do not own any emergency vehicles. I do own a private car with amateur radio license plates.

As someone else noted, I don't live in Tennessee (did when I first got my ham ticket though!) but if they try to stick me with an emergency tag around here, I'll go back to normal Mr. Civilian license plates. I use ham tags so other hams will see I am one, not so I can get into an emergency scene.

Ah, but, ya'll have fun with your emergency vehicles over there in Tennessee.


Ed

[KG4RUL]

Here is the proposed South Carolina Amateur Radio plate design:

http://home.comcast.net/~dzabawa/TagFinalRweb.jpg

SC Plate (TagFinalRweb.jpg)

[kg4dci]

Quote[/b] (W5HTW @ Feb. 01 2007,17:22)]None of my cars are emergency vehicles.

That's enough of that. You guys can play savior. I've done my share of emergency communications support WITHOUT seeking glory or public awareness. Just do it quietly, and get back to the fun of ham radio. Been doing that for nearly 51 years, hope to do it a few more. But ....

"Don't need no stinkin' emergency vehicle!"

No hard feelings, but I'll say it one more time. I do not own any emergency vehicles. I do own a private car with amateur radio license plates.

As someone else noted, I don't live in Tennessee (did when I first got my ham ticket though!) but if they try to stick me with an emergency tag around here, I'll go back to normal Mr. Civilian license plates. I use ham tags so other hams will see I am one, not so I can get into an emergency scene.

Ah, but, ya'll have fun with your emergency vehicles over there in Tennessee.


Ed
Well seeing how you don't live in TN, it won't really have an effect on you either way...

I don't see a good reason to make a change, and as a citizen of the great state of TN, I'd like others from different states to worry about whats going on at home, and not bother us in the Volunteer state.

I just haven't seen the ARS tags abused here in TN, I've had either an ARS or E-##### tag on my vehicle for the better part of 10 years, and have never even heard of any real problems, other than some confusion from a very limited number of police officers... and mostly they just want to know who you're with to rate a E tag.

[kn4ds]

Quote[/b] (kg4dci @ Feb. 01 2007,21:36)]I just haven't seen the ARS tags abused here in TN, I've had either an ARS or E-##### tag on my vehicle for the better part of 10 years, and have never even heard of any real problems, other than some confusion from a very limited number of police officers... and mostly they just want to know who you're with to rate a E tag.
That just shows a lack of training on the part of those officers, or maybe it was covered, but they forgot (I forget now and then, and I bet you do, too).

I know of one ham (now SK) that was stopped here in GA because the officer thought his amateur tag was bogus. While one would think that basics such as the types of tags an officer could expect to see out on the streets would have to be covered in their training, with so many different types of vanity plates out there, it's easy to understand how they might miss some.

It does suggest another reason to cut out that little part on the bottom of your license document and laminating, keeping it with you in your wallet.

[N2RJ]

Quote[/b] (KG4RUL @ Feb. 01 2007,21:27)]Here is the proposed South Carolina Amateur Radio plate design:

http://home.comcast.net/~dzabawa/TagFinalRweb.jpg

SC Plate (TagFinalRweb.jpg)
Take out Emergency communications.

Emcomm is only ONE of the things ham radio does.

What about international goodwill, advancement of the radio art, the space program and the like?

Putting "Emergency" or "Emergency communications" makes it seem that ALL amateur radio is about is emergency communications.

[w4rlr]

http://members.cox.net/richardray/FLAMATEURTAG.jpg

My idea for a revised Florida Amateur plate.

[n0iu]

Quote[/b] (KC2PFV @ Feb. 01 2007,09:44)]You guys do realize the entire purpose of having an "Amateur Radio" plate is to say that you are willing to provide communications if the need arises?
Actually I think the primary reason for having amateur radio plates is the same reason the FCC will sell you the callsign of your choice (if it is available) - VANITY

Scott NØIU

[KG4RUL]

Quote[/b] (AB2MH @ Feb. 01 2007,17:55)]Quote[/b] (KG4RUL @ Feb. 01 2007,21:27)]Here is the proposed South Carolina Amateur Radio plate design:

http://home.comcast.net/~dzabawa/TagFinalRweb.jpg

SC Plate (TagFinalRweb.jpg)
Take out Emergency communications.

Emcomm is only ONE of the things ham radio does.

What about international goodwill, advancement of the radio art, the space program and the like?

Putting "Emergency" or "Emergency communications" makes it seem that ALL amateur radio is about is emergency communications.
No use talinkg to me about it. Complaints go to the SC DMV. And we KNOW how responsive they can be! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif

[w2nsf]

Hey AB2MH!
How'd you get a hold of 007's Honda Accord with the flipover NY/NJ license plates?
http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[kr2d]

Quote[/b] (w2nsf @ Feb. 03 2007,15:07)]Hey AB2MH!
How'd you get a hold of 007's Honda Accord with the flipover NY/NJ license plates?
http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
A second question to AB2MH - how do you request a NJ Amateur Radio plate? The clueless folks at my local DMV tell me I have to get a regular vanity plate.

[w4rlr]

Quote[/b] (n2jso @ Feb. 03 2007,14:16)]Quote[/b] (w2nsf @ Feb. 03 2007,15:07)]Hey AB2MH!
How'd you get a hold of 007's Honda Accord with the flipover NY/NJ license plates?
http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
A second question to AB2MH - how do you request a NJ Amateur Radio plate? #The clueless folks at my local DMV tell me I have to get a regular vanity plate.
New Jersey Amateur Radio License Plates: Amateur Radio (Ham operators) license plates may be purchased for a $15 fee, for passenger vehicles, but not for commercial vehicles or motorcycles. (Applicants must be licensed by the Federal Communications Commission.) Call MVC at (toll free in NJ) 888.486.3339 to request an application.

[kf4vgx]

Quote[/b] (W4MAJ @ Jan. 29 2007,14:00)]Quote[/b] (kg4dci @ Jan. 30 2007,13:50)]As somebody who lives in TN what exactly do you have a problem with the current ARS tags? #And what would you suggest changing them to?

Frankly the current tags are great IMHO.
Tennessee has spent a lot of time and effort designing new tags and redesigning old ones. The current tag just doesn't blow my skirt up. I'm curious if others feel this way. I'll put you down as a "no".

http://tennessee.gov/revenue/vehicle/licenseplates/emergency/amateurradio.jpg
That could be very confusing to the public.

Wonder how many amateurs bought those tags ?

http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif

[WA9SVD]

Quote[/b] (WB2WIK @ Jan. 30 2007,17:11)]What about this one?
4Q2PAL?

Wasn't that a DXPedition a couple of years ago?

[WA9SVD]

Quote[/b] (KC2PFV @ Feb. 01 2007,14:53)][

If you aren't into providing Emergency Communications (your loss), you shouldn't get the plates.

Like it or not, the government could rely on us for communications if the need ever arose.
If that WERE true, the states would require proof of ARES/RACES membership before issuing Amteur Plates.
MOST Amateurs have callsign plates for the same reason many have vanity callsigns. Vanity, pure and simple. And a certain amount of pride, to be identified as an Amateur Radio Licensee.
But using the word "EMERGENCY" on call plates is indeed a poor choice and misleading to the public. A private vehicle owned by an Amateur is NOT an emergency vehicle, and the owner/driver may not be able to provide any more assistance in an emergency than John or Jane Q. Public. And they don't have any authority to do so.

But you seem to have a mistaken notion of our role in providing emergency communications. Not to start an arguement, but any emergency comms we provide are VOLUNTARY. See §97.1(a) It defines Amateur Radio as a "...voluntary non-commercial communication service..."
The government can not FORCE any Amateur to provide communications. Like it or not? Sorry. Right or wrong, if an Amateur doesn't like it, they don't HAVE to participate in emergency communications.

[WA9SVD]

Quote[/b] (AB2MH @ Feb. 01 2007,21:55)]Quote[/b] (KG4RUL @ Feb. 01 2007,21:27)]Here is the proposed South Carolina Amateur Radio plate design:

http://home.comcast.net/~dzabawa/TagFinalRweb.jpg

SC Plate (TagFinalRweb.jpg)
Take out Emergency communications.

Emcomm is only ONE of the things ham radio does.

What about international goodwill, advancement of the radio art, the space program and the like?

Putting "Emergency" or "Emergency communications" makes it seem that ALL amateur radio is about is emergency communications.
Instead of "Emergency," perhaps the word "VOLUNTEER" would be much more fitting?

[WS2L]

This is a picture of the older NJ plates, the one AB2HM posted is the current style.


http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n131/DirkNJ/cid__media1.jpg

[KG4RUL]

I like the proposed South Carolina Plate just as it is:

http://home.comcast.net/~dzabawa/thm_TagFinalRweb.jpg

[w7xf]

And here is Arizona's entry to the ham plate beauty pageant. Ours just came out in December 2006, and we have to pay $25/yr extra to have them # http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

K7KWH

Linky (http://www.azdot.gov/mvd/vehicle/ImgLarge.asp?txtImage=AmateurRadio_Large.jpg)

[w7act]

Here's Washington's Current Amateur Radio License Plate design.

http://www.dol.wa.gov/images/ham_150.jpg

You can get it with either your FCC Call Sign or your MARS Call Sign.

[KB0LPI]

Iowa's Design:
http://www.dot.state.ia.us/mvd/ovs/plates/amateur.gif

The 0 with the slash is the only way to distinguish it from any other plate. We've got all kinds of other funky plates (education, natural resources, veteran, military, college mascots) with extra designs to the left. I think an antenna off to the left like the SC or AZ plate would be a nice addition. replacing the County name with HAM RADIO would be good too. At least it would explain it. It think it's an extra 5$ per year here.

I can't count the number of people that have asked me what Kabowlpy means. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[wv6z]

Quote[/b] (KG4RUL @ April 24 2007,09:49)]I like the proposed South Carolina Plate just as it is:

http://home.comcast.net/~dzabawa/thm_TagFinalRweb.jpg
Oh it's a lot nicer than what we currently have, don't get me wrong.....
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d148/ku4my/KU4MYTag2.jpg

.....BUT, Em Comm is a bit of a far stretch, isn't it? What percentage of SC hammies actually participate in Em Comm, maybe 2%...... 5% at a stretch? I can see my wife being flagged down now to facilitate emergency communications while buzzing down the highway..... now that, my friends, would be a laugh. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif

[N4AUD]

Virginia's is plain and simple, which I prefer.

http://www.dmv.virginia.gov/images/plates/amaradio.gif

In case the image doesn't work... (http://www.dmv.virginia.gov/images/plates/amaradio.gif)

[W0JBC]

NØIU :
Over thirty five years ago, we tried to get a " break " on Ham vanity plates ... NO CIGAR .... The amateur plates designated that , in an emergency , local police could take your vehicle .....

Big thing then was, if they could do that , the plates should be free ... Of course, tax reasons, it died in the state senate ... MO' monies ...

I thought about vanity plates here in Michigan yet as in the state of Washington , the inmates could not figure out how to put a SLASH through the ZERO ....

Missouri did it ... Smarter crooks there I guess ...

Just like the QRZ database , most cannot slash the " 0 " to a " Ø " ......

It is tough stuff ....

Actually, as things are today, I don't wish to advertise that I might have radio equipment in the vehicle ...

Also, gottcha, ED , I understand ....

Here in Michigan, the light-bars are free ... ( Just kidding !)

Also I am glad you can complete a sentence with correct English ! ( referenced to another thread )...


JB

[N2RJ]

Quote[/b] (KI4PEQ @ Feb. 03 2007,19:50)]Quote[/b] (n2jso @ Feb. 03 2007,14:16)]Quote[/b] (w2nsf @ Feb. 03 2007,15:07)]Hey AB2MH!
How'd you get a hold of 007's Honda Accord with the flipover NY/NJ license plates?
http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
A second question to AB2MH - how do you request a NJ Amateur Radio plate? The clueless folks at my local DMV tell me I have to get a regular vanity plate.
New Jersey Amateur Radio License Plates: Amateur Radio (Ham operators) license plates may be purchased for a $15 fee, for passenger vehicles, but not for commercial vehicles or motorcycles. (Applicants must be licensed by the Federal Communications Commission.) Call MVC at (toll free in NJ) 888.486.3339 to request an application.
Yep. Just as PEQ said.

You call MVC headquarters in Trenton. Tell them you want the application form for ham radio plates.

They will mail it to you, then you fill it out and return it along with a copy of your license and your registration as well as a check for the fee. Your inspection must also be valid.

In a few weeks you get your plates by mail.

Simple and painless.

[N2RJ]

Quote[/b] (WS2L @ April 25 2007,10:37)]This is a picture of the older NJ plates, the one AB2HM posted is the current style.


http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n131/DirkNJ/cid__media1.jpg
Yea I've seen those.

Some of them even say "N.J." instead of New Jersey.

[N2RJ]

Quote[/b] (w2nsf @ Feb. 03 2007,15:07)]Hey AB2MH!
How'd you get a hold of 007's Honda Accord with the flipover NY/NJ license plates?
http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
I have another car with California ham plates that say, "KN1GHT" on them, but between you and me I like the Accord better. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif

[WA2ZDY]

Glad to see FL ham tags mentioned here. I didn't know if we had them here. Been here 9 months and haven't seen any yet.

S'ok anyway, my wife picked that Nemo-looking clownfish tag at the tax collector's office.

(I must be starting to adjust to life in the sunshine state; I call them tags now, not plates. And no longer does it strike me as bizarre that driver's licenses and tags come from the tax collector's office.)

[AB8RU]

You ought to see the new Michigan Plates the white -N- blue was finally dumped, I have a newer plate looks OK to me , Wife has what is a Blue on White plate , at first the PERMANET TRAILER Plate were made that way now on any vechicle #going to BAA 0000 #I had a AGT 0000 plate of the old blue kind after I removed the Ham plate off my old car I did a transfer and renewal Try $84.00 for a 2002 Intrepid #( whistle on that one off the air ! )

I guess reason is probably to catch EXPIRED plates in 2008 more quickly ( Cash Collection of fines ) well old Blue was around since the 1980's

and I still have my old ham call plate prior call ( nobody wants N8ZUX anyway ) .

http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif

[W0LPQ]

I believe the Des Moines Radio Club (years ago) purchased the dies for amateur radio plates within the state of Iowa. They used to be made at Ft. Madison and Anamosa. At least they do have the slash, which a lot of states are not capable of doing (such as Indiana), so I have Shrine plates.

Bill, W0LPQ/9