CP-30 Form – Looking for the CP-30 form to apply for custom license plates in New York? The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) provides the official CP-30: Application for Custom Plates (PDF) for mail-in requests of personalized, picture, professional, and specialty plates that cannot be fully processed online.
This guide covers everything you need: how to download the CP-30 PDF, who needs it, step-by-step instructions, fees, submission details, processing time, and alternatives. Updated for 2026 using the latest official DMV sources.
What Is the CP-30 Form?
The CP-30 form (revised 9/20) is the official New York DMV application used exclusively for ordering custom plates by mail. It covers:
- Personalized plates (passenger, commercial, or motorcycle)
- Picture plates and professional plates
- Specialty/organizational plates (e.g., Certified Public Accountant, Registered Architect, Gold Star Family, Lions Club, Our Best Friends)
- Plates requiring eligibility proof
- Symbol of Access (handicap) plates when certification is needed
Most standard personalized number plates can now be ordered instantly online, but the CP-30 is required for custom designs, picture plates, professional plates, and any plate not available through the online system.
Direct Download Link:
Download CP-30 Form PDF (official NY DMV site – always use this link for the latest version).
Who Should Use the CP-30 Form?
Use the CP-30 if:
- You want a picture or professional plate
- Your desired plate requires proof of eligibility
- You prefer mailing your application (or online ordering isn’t available for your plate type)
- You need the Symbol of Access (you must qualify and may need form MV-664.1)
You do not need it for standard personalized plates if you order online at the DMV’s personalized plates portal.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill Out the CP-30 Form?
- Download and print the CP-30 PDF from the official link above.
- Choose your plate type:
- Standard plates (DMV assigns number)
- Personalized plates (Passenger / Commercial / Motorcycle)
- Symbol of Access (if qualifying)
- Provide up to 3 plate choices:
- Use a period (.) to indicate a space
- Check the DMV website for exact character limits and configuration rules
- Fill in your personal information (print clearly):
- Full name, date of birth, address, phone
- Current plate number, vehicle year/make, plate type
- Indicate payment method:
- Check or money order (payable to “Commissioner of Motor Vehicles”)
- Or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover) with full card details and signature
- Attach required documents (if applicable):
- Eligibility certification for specialty plates
- Form MV-664.1 for new Symbol of Access requests
- Sign and date the form.
Pro Tip: Refer to the official list of all plates, fees, and eligibility at dmv.ny.gov/nav/custom-plates before choosing your design.
Fees for Custom Plates (CP-30 Applications)
- Annual custom plate fees vary by plate type (e.g., personalized, picture, professional).
- Fees are added to your vehicle registration renewal.
- Pay the application fee (if any) by check, money order, or credit card with the CP-30.
- Exact pricing and plate availability are listed on the DMV’s custom plates pages – always verify before mailing.
How to Submit the CP-30 Form?
Mail the completed form, payment, and any required documents to: Custom Plates Unit
New York State DMV
P.O. Box 2775
Albany, NY 12220-0775
Processing Time: Allow 4 to 6 weeks for delivery.
Contact the Custom Plates Unit for questions:
Phone: (518) 402-4838
Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET
Important Rules & Warnings
- DMV reserves the right to reject, recall, or cancel any plate deemed objectionable (even after issuance).
- Making false statements on the form is a misdemeanor under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 392.
- Renewing these plates certifies you remain eligible.
- Do not return old plates to DMV unless instructed.
- Become an organ donor – visit donatelife.ny.gov (noted on the form).
Online Alternative: Faster Personalized Plates
For most personalized number plates (no picture or specialty logo), use the faster online ordering system at transact3.dmv.ny.gov/PlatesPersonalized/. No CP-30 needed.
Picture plates, professional plates, and certain custom designs still require the CP-30 by mail.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use the CP-30 for motorcycle plates?
Yes – select “Motorcycle” under Excelsior Plates or personalized options.
Is the CP-30 form still current in 2026?
Yes. The official version remains CP-30 (9/20) and is actively linked on the NY DMV website.
What if my plate choice is taken?
Provide up to three choices. The DMV will review availability.
Do I need to surrender old plates?
No – keep them until new plates arrive (unless DMV instructs otherwise).
Final Tips for Success
- Double-check character limits and eligibility on the official DMV site before mailing.
- Use the exact download link to ensure you have the current PDF.
- Keep a copy of your completed CP-30 for your records.
Ready to get your custom New York plates?
Download the CP-30 PDF now → https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/cp30.pdf
For the full list of available custom plates and fees, visit the official NY DMV Personalized Plate Numbers page or the main plates section at dmv.ny.gov/plates.
Official Sources: All information above is taken directly from the New York State DMV website (dmv.ny.gov) as of March 2026. Always verify details on the official site before submitting your application.
Need help with a specific plate type? Comment below or contact the Custom Plates Unit directly. Safe driving!