The California Spay & Neuter License Plate
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CA Spay

The California Spay & Neuter license plate (available as of June 2010), sponsored by the California Veterinary Medical Board, provides a fun and easy way for pet lovers to help reduce pet overpopulation.

Proceeds from the plate provide funding for free or low-cost spay & neuter surgeries across California, and also help to raise awareness about the importance of spaying and neutering.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the plate cost?

A sequentially numbered plate is just $50. A personalized plate, whether a new request or a transfer for an existing personalized plate, is $98. These fees are additional above your normal registration fee.

What is the artwork?

The California Spay & Neuter License plate artwork was created and donated by international actor, artist and animal lover Pierce Brosnan. It is a painting of two of the animals he and his wife Keely have adopted... Shilo the dog and Angel Baby the cat.

When will I receive my plate?

After 7,500 pre-orders are received, the DMV will begin the official program, and will start issuing actual plates after the implementation process is complete. The entire process may take 12 months or more based on the rate that pre-orders are received, and the speed at which the DMV implements the program. People who pre-order are guaranteed to receive their plates prior to the general public, and by pre-ordering you lock-in your position as one of the first Californians to display your love of animals and your support for reducing pet overpopulation!

During the sign up process, you will be asked for the DMV office where your present plates and registration card will be exchanged for your new plates. The DMV will contact you when your new plates are ready.

Can I keep my current license plate number?

If you already have a personalized plate, you may transfer the plate as long as it is 6 characters or less. You may not transfer a previous sequential plate number to the new plate.

Can I personalize the license plate?

Absolutely! Simply fill out your first, second and third choices for a personalized message. Please note that the DMV may refuse any inappropriate personalization request.

Where does the money raised through the program go?

The California Spay & Neuter License Plate is sponsored by the California Veterinary Medical Board and administered by the California Spay & Neuter License Plate Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (1). Proceeds are distributed to cities and counties for free and low cost spay and neuter programs through clinics, shelters and vouchers redeemable at local veterinarians (2).

Is there a yearly renewal fee?

There is a yearly fee to renew all specialty license plates (including the CA Spay & Neuter plate) as follows: sequentially numbered plate - $40, personalized plates - $78. You will not be asked to pay a renewal fee until you have had the plates for one year.

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