Do you use your Little British Car as an everyday driver? If the answer is no and you are paying yearly PA state registration fees, you may want to consider applying for a permanent "antique", "classic" or "collectible" registration plate.

In general, antique, classic and collectible registration plates are permanent and are issued for the life of the vehicle while it is owned by the present owner. Classic and collectible vehicles are subject to vehicle safety inspection annually. Antique vehicles are not subject to the annual vehicle safety inspection. Antique, classic and collectible vehicles are not subject to emissions inspection.

To qualify for "antique", "classic" or "collectible" registration a vehicle must meet certain criteria as defined in Section 102 of the PA Vehicle Code.

Antique Motor Vehicle: A motor vehicle, but not a reproduction thereof, manufactured more than 25 years prior to the current year, which has been maintained in or restored to a condition, which is substantially in conformance with manufacturer specifications.

Classic Motor Vehicle: A motor vehicle, but not a reproduction thereof, manufactured at least 15 years prior to the current year, which has been maintained in or restored to a condition, which is substantially in conformity with manufacturer specification and appearance.

Collectible Motor Vehicle: A reconstructed motor vehicle, but not a reproduction thereof, substantially modified from the manufacturer’s original specifications and appearance and maintained in a collectible condition as determined by PennDOT. Note: Generally, substantial changes to the engine and exhaust systems must be done to qualify the vehicle as a collectible motor vehicle.

The use of antique, classic and collectible plates is governed by Section 1340 of the PA Vehicle Code which states: "It is unlawful for any person to operate a vehicle with antique, classic or collectible registration plates for general daily transportation. Permitted use shall be limited to participation in club activities, exhibits, tours, parades, occasional transportation and similar uses". Occasional transportation and similar uses is defined as one day a week.

To apply for antique, classic or collectible registration plates, you must complete form MV-11, attach four clearly distinguishable color photos (front, rear, and both sides) of the vehicle. Attach the current title of the vehicle. Pay a $22.50 title fee and a one-time $75.00 permanent registration plate fee. When a registered classic vehicle becomes of age to be an antique, the owner may choose to apply for an antique registration. If the owner wishes to change the registration, the title must be changed from classic to antique. To do this, a new MV-11 must be completed, current photographs of the vehicle must be submitted, the classic title must be attached, and title and registration fees must be paid again.

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