Massachusetts RMV Opens 2026 Low Number Plate Lottery Applications
On June 15, 2026, the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) opened applications for its 2026 Low Number Plate Lottery, giving residents an opportunity to own one of the Commonwealth’s coveted low‑number license plates. The RMV announced that 237 distinctive plates — including combinations like 8L, 20D, 3G and many more — will be awarded in this year’s drawing. Low‑number plates have a long history in Massachusetts and are often passed down through families, so demand for new numbers is high. By holding an annual lottery, the RMV ensures that everyone has an equal chance to obtain one of these highly sought‑after plates.
Applications for the 2026 lottery must be submitted by Monday, August 14, 2026. The RMV emphasized that there is no fee to enter; applicants simply need to have a valid Massachusetts vehicle registration and complete the online entry form. Each person may submit only one entry, and duplicate submissions will be disqualified. The lottery is open only to Massachusetts residents whose vehicles are registered and insured in the Commonwealth. Commercial, antique and motorcycle plates are not eligible in this lottery. The RMV will conduct a computerized random drawing to select the winning names and plate numbers. Winners will be notified by mail and will also be posted on the RMV’s website by September 15, 2026. Those selected must pay the standard special plate fee and local registration fees when they pick up their plate at an RMV service center. The plates cannot be gifted or transferred to another person, and winners may not request a different plate from the list; if they decline their assigned plate, it will be offered to the next person on the waiting list.
According to the RMV, the low‑number plate lottery is part of the agency’s ongoing customer service initiatives. Officials note that low‑number plates have been assigned since the early 1900s and are a point of pride for many Massachusetts drivers. Last year tens of thousands of residents entered the lottery, underscoring its enduring popularity. In addition to promoting fairness, the lottery helps raise awareness about proper vehicle registration and encourages residents to keep their registrations up to date. The RMV urges interested drivers to visit Mass.Gov/RMV or pick up a paper application at any service center for complete rules, a list of available plates and to submit an entry. By participating before the August 14 deadline, drivers can take their shot at owning a piece of Massachusetts history through a low‑number license plate.