Albertans to choose first new licence plate design in four decades
Albertans will soon help decide the look of the province’s first new licence plate in more than 40 years.
Starting Oct. 15, residents can take part in a tournament-style online vote running until Nov. 5 to select a refreshed plate built around the theme “Strong and Free.” The new design will launch in late 2026 and will reflect Alberta’s provincial motto, its identity as an economic powerhouse and its deep-rooted sense of pride.
The phrase also nods to Canada’s national anthem and reinforces Alberta’s view of itself as a strong and sovereign province within a united country.
“From our wide-open landscapes to our entrepreneurial spirit, Alberta has so much to be proud of, and our new licence plate will reflect that pride,” Premier Danielle Smith said. “For the first time in four decades, Albertans will choose how we tell that story. I look forward to seeing which design is selected to show the world that this is the land of the strong and free.”
Eight initial concepts are available in the first round of voting. They include imagery of well-known landmarks such as the Three Sisters peaks near Canmore, as well as references to agriculture, energy production and other defining features of Alberta’s landscape and history. Four designs will advance to a second round, then two to a final vote. The winning plate is expected to be unveiled during the fall sitting of the legislature.
“Alberta is strong and free, and Albertans will have the opportunity to choose a new licence plate that captures that spirit,” said Dale Nally, minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction. “The new licence plate will be a fresh design that every Albertan will be proud to show off, whether they’re driving to work, heading to the lake or exploring North America.”
Albertans who want to switch to the new plate once it is released may do so voluntarily for a $28 fee. Otherwise, they can obtain it for free when they renew their vehicle registration. Existing plates may continue to be used as long as they remain in good condition.
Quick facts
Alberta’s current licence plate was introduced in 1984.
Reflective versions of the existing plate began rolling out in 2021.
All proposed designs use reflective technology to improve visibility and legibility for law enforcement and automated systems in low-light conditions and meet international standards for counterfeit resistance.