PennDOT Form MV-44LB: PA New Liberty Bell Plate Guide – Pennsylvania vehicle owners can now request the redesigned Liberty Bell registration plate using PennDOT Form MV-44LB, the official “Application for New Style Registration Plate.” Introduced in mid-2025 to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, the new design features the Liberty Bell and the phrase “Let Freedom Ring.” This guide explains who can apply, how to complete the form, current fees, mailing instructions, and important limitations—based on official information from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT).
What Is PennDOT Form MV-44LB?
Form MV-44LB is a temporary, purpose-specific application created by PennDOT’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles. It allows registered owners of passenger cars and trucks to replace their current standard-issue or personalized plates with the new Liberty Bell design. The form is not intended for general plate replacements (those still use Form MV-44) and is only for the new style.
Official download link:
Download PennDOT Form MV-44LB (PDF)
Always obtain the form directly from the official Pennsylvania government website to ensure you have the current version (currently marked MV-44LB (7-25)).
Who Can Apply for the New Style Registration Plate?
Eligibility is limited at this time:
- Owners of standard-issue passenger car or truck registration plates
- Owners of personalized standard-issue passenger car or truck plates who want to keep their existing configuration
- Owners of specialty plates (military, special fund, or special organization) who are willing to switch to a standard Liberty Bell plate
Important limitation: Specialty plates (military, special organization, or special fund) are not yet available in the new design. If you apply using Form MV-44LB while holding a specialty plate, PennDOT will issue a standard Liberty Bell plate instead.
Motorcycle, trailer, and other non-passenger/truck plates are not currently eligible for the new design through this form.
How to Complete Form MV-44LB Step by Step?
Follow these official instructions carefully:
- Download and print the current Form MV-44LB from the official PennDOT site.
- Check the appropriate box at the top of the form:
- Standard plate replacement (fee required)
- Personalized plate replacement keeping the same configuration (free)
- Specialty plate replacement with a standard new-style plate (fee required)
- Complete Section A exactly as the information appears on your current registration card (VIN, current plate number, expiration date, title number, plate type, owner name(s), PA driver’s license or business ID number, and date of birth).
- If your address has changed, note the new address in the designated space. An out-of-state address also requires Form MV-8.
- For personalized plates (Section B): Enter the exact configuration, including any dashes or spaces, and attach a clear photo of your current personalized plate.
- Sign and date Section C. Co-owners must also sign.
Do not send cash. Make any required check or money order payable to the “Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.”
Fees for the New Style Registration Plate
According to the current PennDOT schedule of fees (Form MV-70S) and the official standard plate page:
- Replacing a standard-issue plate: $14
- Replacing an existing personalized plate (same configuration): Free
Fees are subject to change. Always verify the latest amount on Form MV-70S or the official PennDOT website before mailing.
Optional duplicate registration cards cost additional fees (currently $2 each when ordered with the application; free online duplicates are also available).
Where to Mail Form MV-44LB?
Mail the completed form (and payment if required) to:
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
P.O. Box 68593
Harrisburg, PA 17106-8593
Keep a copy of the application and your current registration card. While the new plate is in the mail, continue displaying your existing plate. The official vehicle record will update to the new plate number once processing begins.
Processing Time and What to Expect
Typical processing times reported by PennDOT:
- Standard plates: Often received within about 10 days after processing
- Personalized plates: Approximately 6–8 weeks
You will receive one registration card with the new plate. Additional cards can be requested for a fee or obtained free online later.
Special Notes for Personalized and Specialty Plate Owners
If you want to convert a non-personalized standard plate into a personalized one on the new design, do not use Form MV-44LB. Instead, complete Form MV-904 and pay the applicable personalization fees.
All new personalized plates issued going forward will automatically use the Liberty Bell design.
Specialty plates remain unavailable in the new style. Applying with Form MV-44LB will result in a standard plate.
Official Resources and Contact Information
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always rely on official Commonwealth of Pennsylvania sources:
- PennDOT Standard Issue License Plate page
- Form MV-44LB PDF
- Form MV-70S – Bureau of Motor Vehicles Schedule of Fees
- PennDOT Customer Service: 717-412-5300 (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. ET); TTY users dial 711
- Website: www.pa.gov/dmv
The new Liberty Bell plate is optional. Existing plates remain valid. Vehicle owners who simply want a new design can request one at any time using Form MV-44LB while supplies and processing capacity allow.