PennDOT Form MV-11M Historic Military Registration Plate

PennDOT Form MV-11M Historic Military Registration Plate – Pennsylvania vehicle owners of authentic historic military vehicles can apply for a special permanent registration plate through PennDOT Form MV-11M. This plate recognizes antique or classic vehicles originally manufactured for military use and maintained in accurate military design and markings. Authorized under Section 1340 of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code, the Historic Military Vehicle registration plate offers the same legal standing as antique or classic plates while celebrating military heritage.

This guide covers eligibility requirements, current fees, application steps, usage restrictions, and where to download the official Form MV-11M for Pennsylvania residents.

What Is a Historic Military Vehicle Registration Plate?

A Historic Military Vehicle registration plate is a permanent specialty plate issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). It is available for vehicles that meet the legal definition of a historic military vehicle:

  • An antique or classic vehicle (including trailers)
  • Originally manufactured for use in any country’s military forces
  • Maintained to accurately represent the vehicle’s original military design and markings

The plate was created by Act 91 of 2018 and took effect in 2019. It allows owners to display a distinctive plate in place of a standard antique or classic registration plate.

Eligibility Requirements for Form MV-11M

To qualify for the Permanent Historic Military Registration Plate, your vehicle must satisfy these conditions:

  • The vehicle must already be branded as an antique or classic vehicle in Pennsylvania. If it is not yet branded, you must also submit Form MV-11 (Application for Permanent Antique, Classic or Collectible Registration Plates) along with applicable fees.
  • Antique vehicles are those manufactured more than 25 years prior to the current year and maintained or restored to substantial manufacturer specifications.
  • Classic vehicles are those manufactured at least 15 years prior to the current year and maintained or restored to substantial manufacturer specifications and appearance.
  • The vehicle must have been built for military service and kept in authentic military condition, including paint, markings, interior, and exterior.

Buses and trucks are eligible, but buses may not transport passengers and trucks may not haul cargo. Historic Military Vehicle plates are not available for motorized pedalcycles or motor homes. Motorcycle versions are limited to antique or classic motorcycles only.

How to Apply Using PennDOT Form MV-11M?

Follow these steps to apply for the Permanent Historic Military Registration Plate:

  1. Download the official Form MV-11M from the Pennsylvania government website.
  2. Complete Section A with applicant (and co-owner, if applicable) information, including name, address, date of birth, and Pennsylvania driver’s license or photo ID number.
  3. Complete Section B with full vehicle details: year, make, model, body type, VIN, title number, odometer reading, and current insurance information. Attach a copy of valid proof of insurance.
  4. If desired, complete Section C to request personalization (additional fee applies).
  5. Sign the self-certification in Section D, affirming that the vehicle is maintained in authentic military condition and complies with Pennsylvania equipment regulations.
  6. Include payment by check or money order payable to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Do not send cash.
  7. Mail the completed form, supporting documents, and fees to:
    Bureau of Motor Vehicles
    Special Tag Unit
    P.O. Box 68293
    Harrisburg, PA 17106-8293

If the vehicle title is held electronically by a lienholder (Electronic Lien Title), check the appropriate box on the form; no paper title needs to be attached.

Download the official Form MV-11M here: PennDOT Form MV-11M – Application for Permanent Historic Military Vehicle Registration Plate (PDF)

Current Fees for Historic Military Vehicle Plates

Fees are subject to periodic adjustment based on the Consumer Price Index. As of the most recent update effective July 1, 2025, the fees listed on Form MV-70S (Bureau of Motor Vehicles Schedule of Fees) are:

  • Historic Military Vehicle plate (first-time issuance): $99 (in addition to the $72 certificate of title fee and $102 antique/classic registration fee when required)
  • Personalized Historic Military Vehicle plate: $235 total (includes the $136 personalization fee)

Always verify the latest fees on the current version of Form MV-70S or the official PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services website before submitting payment. County Fee for Local Use may also apply in participating counties.

Usage Rules and Restrictions

Under Section 1340 of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code, Historic Military Vehicle plates (like antique, classic, vintage, and collectible plates) have strict usage limits:

  • It is unlawful to operate the vehicle for general daily transportation.
  • Permitted uses are limited to club activities, exhibits, tours, parades, occasional transportation, and similar uses.
  • “Occasional transportation” is defined as no more than one day per week.
  • The plate may not be displayed on any vehicle used to transport people or property.

These restrictions help preserve the historic and collectible nature of the vehicles while ensuring public safety.

Plate Permanence, Transfer, and Inspection

Historic Military Vehicle registration plates are permanent and remain valid for the life of the vehicle while owned by the current owner. If the owner sells the vehicle, the plate stays with the seller and can be transferred to another qualifying vehicle after paying the required fees. Transfers between spouses or parent and child follow standard transfer procedures.

Inspection rules differ by vehicle type:

  • Antique historic military vehicles operated exclusively between sunrise and sunset are exempt from annual safety and emissions inspections (original lighting equipment is still required).
  • Classic historic military vehicles are subject to annual vehicle safety inspections but are exempt from emissions testing.

Personalization Options

Owners may personalize the Historic Military Vehicle plate for an additional fee. Personalization rules include:

  • Up to four letters and/or numbers for standard plates (a pre-printed “MV” prefix appears automatically).
  • Up to three letters and/or numbers for motorcycle plates.
  • Only one hyphen or space is allowed (not both).
  • PennDOT reserves the right to reject any configuration.

Check availability on the PennDOT website under Vehicle Services → Registration Plates → Personalized Registration Plates before applying. Allow 8–10 weeks for delivery of personalized plates.

Additional Resources and Official Sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consult these official Pennsylvania government resources:

Forms are also available at many motor vehicle dealerships, messenger services, and authorized agent offices throughout Pennsylvania.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need the vehicle to already have an antique or classic designation?
Yes. If the vehicle is not already branded as antique or classic, submit Form MV-11 together with Form MV-11M and pay all required fees.

Can I use the plate for daily commuting?
No. General daily transportation is prohibited. Use is limited to occasional purposes (no more than one day per week) plus club events, exhibits, tours, and parades.

Is the plate available for motorcycles?
Yes, but only for antique or classic motorcycles. Special personalization rules apply.

Where do I mail the completed application?
Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Special Tag Unit, P.O. Box 68293, Harrisburg, PA 17106-8293.

Applying for the Permanent Historic Military Registration Plate with PennDOT Form MV-11M is a straightforward process for qualifying Pennsylvania vehicle owners. By following the eligibility rules, submitting the correct forms and fees, and adhering to usage restrictions, you can proudly display a plate that honors the military history of your vehicle while remaining fully compliant with state law. Always refer to the latest official PennDOT publications for any fee or procedural updates.

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