How to Get a Kentucky Colonel License Plate
Hey there! If you‘ve been commissioned as a Kentucky Colonel, you can get a special Kentucky Colonel license plate for your car. I know the process can seem confusing, but as an expert in Kentucky history and law, I‘m here to walk you through it step-by-step.
What Does it Mean to be a Kentucky Colonel?
But first, what exactly is a Kentucky Colonel? The title of Kentucky Colonel is the highest honor given by the Commonwealth of Kentucky. It‘s awarded by the governor to recognize outstanding contributions to the community, state or nation.
As of 2022, there were approximately 7,000 living Kentucky Colonels worldwide. To earn this title, you must be nominated by the governor, a member of the General Assembly, or the Kentucky Secretary of State.
Once commissioned as a Colonel, you become an ambassador representing Kentucky‘s goodwill and values. It‘s a lifetime appointment that comes with great prestige and responsibility.
History of the Kentucky Colonels
The tradition began back in 1813, when Governor Isaac Shelby commissioned the first Kentucky Colonel, his close friend Charles Stewart Todd. In the early days, the title was used to honor Revolutionary War veterans who had settled in Kentucky.
Over time, it evolved into an honorary title bestowed upon businessmen, artists, athletes and other influential citizens who contributed greatly to Kentucky life. Famous Kentucky Colonels have included boxer Muhammad Ali, actress Betty White and Winston Churchill.
So being a Kentucky Colonel puts you in great company! It shows you‘ve made noteworthy achievements to your community and displays Kentucky pride.
Requirements to Get the Specialty License Plate
Now let‘s talk about how to get your own Kentucky Colonel license plate. There are a few requirements you must meet:
- You must have received an official commission as a Kentucky Colonel.
- Submit an application and $50 fee to the Kentucky Colonel Commission.
- Provide a photocopy of your commission certificate.
- Show a valid ID like a driver‘s license.
- Have your application approved by the Commissioner.
The Application Process
Here‘s how to complete the application process:
- Obtain your commission. To become a Kentucky Colonel, you must be nominated by the governor or a legislator and have your nomination approved. This process can take 4-6 months.
- Fill out the application. The Kentucky Colonel License Plate Application is 2 pages long. Fill it out completely and legibly.
- Pay the fee. Include a check or money order for $50 made payable to "Governor‘s Office for Executive Orders." This covers processing.
- Submit documentation. Attach a photocopy of your Kentucky Colonel commission certificate to the application. This proves you‘ve been commissioned.
- Mail it in. Send the completed application, fee, and documentation to the address listed. You can also submit it in person if you prefer.
- Wait for approval. It takes 4-6 weeks to process. Once approved, you‘ll get an email confirming your Colonel status.
Getting Your Plates
After approval, you can get your plates by:
- Taking your confirmation email to your local Circuit Court Clerk
- Filling out the Application for Specialty Plates
- Paying the $25 specialty plate fee
Then you‘ll be issued 1-2 Kentucky Colonel plates! Display them proudly alongside your Colonel lapel pin.
Displaying Your Kentucky Colonel Plates
When using your Kentucky Colonel plates, there are a few display regulations you must follow:
- The plates must be clearly visible and legible at all times. Keep them clean!
- You must affix the official Kentucky Colonel metal lapel pin to the front license plate.
- The lapel pin must be placed at the center of the plate and free of obstruction.
- Plates must be properly mounted in accordance with state guidelines.
- You must renew your vehicle registration each year as normal.
Following these display rules ensures your Kentucky Colonel status is represented properly. The plates should serve as a badge of honor and reminder of your duties as a Colonel of the Commonwealth.
Using Colonel Plates Out-of-State
If you drive out-of-state, most states will recognize and allow the use of your Kentucky Colonel license plates. However, be sure to check the vehicle registration laws in any state you travel to in order to comply with local requirements.
You may need to carry documentation about the plates and your commissioned status. Some states may have restrictions on novelty or vanity plates from other states. As long as your plates are valid in Kentucky, you should be fine, but be aware of varying state laws.
Special Design Kentucky Colonel Plates
Beyond the standard Kentucky Colonel plates, you also have the option to upgrade to specialty designs for an additional fee:
- Personalized plates – Get plates with your name or initials for $25 per plate
- University plates – Show school spirit with University of Kentucky or Louisville plates
- Nature plates – Choose background nature scenes like horses or birds
- Special organization plates – E.g. Ducks Unlimited, Masonic, or emergency medical
- Background graphic plates – Select colorful or artistic background images
To upgrade, fill out the Personalized/Special Plate Application at your local county clerk office and pay the applicable fees. Then you can drive around showcasing your pride for Kentucky!
Important Responsibilities as a Kentucky Colonel
I want to re-emphasize that being a Kentucky Colonel is more than just a vanity title. You take on important responsibilities as an ambassador and leader for the state.
Here are some of the core expectations bestowed upon Kentucky Colonels:
- Exemplify outstanding moral character – Display honesty, integrity, and high ethical standards
- Promote Kentucky locally and nationally – Act as an ambassador and advocate for the state
- Engage in philanthropic service – Give back to the community through volunteer work or donations
- Serve as a leader – Be engaged in civic organizations and mentor youth
- Respect your commission – Honor the history and prestige of the title
- Attend special events – Participate in parades, ceremonies, conventions and other events celebrating Kentucky pride
Living up to these responsibilities keeps the integrity of the commission alive. Being a Colonel is an honor to cherish.
Display Your Title Proudly
Hopefully this gives you a better understanding of how to get and properly display your Kentucky Colonel license plates. It‘s a great way to showcase your pride in our home state.
Remember that the title of Kentucky Colonel represents a legacy of service, leadership and goodwill. Wear it proudly and continue making positive impacts in your community. Let me know if you have any other questions!
