How To Enter Minnesota’s State Park License Plate Design Contest

Have you ever looked at a Minnesota license plate and thought, "I could design something better than that?"

Your opportunity has arrived.

NOT YOUR AVERAGE LICENSE PLATE

If you've got a creative side, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is inviting you to help create the next Minnesota State Parks and Trails specialty license plate.

The last time they held a contest like this was ten years ago, so this is a pretty unique opportunity for artists, photographers, illustrators, and anyone who loves showing off the beauty of our state.

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YOUR DESIGN COULD BECOME OFFICIAL

This isn't just any license plate either. The new design will become another official Minnesota State Parks and Trails specialty plate option.

Just like the current version, purchasing one also gives you free entry into all Minnesota state parks and recreation areas. That's a pretty nice bonus for anyone who loves spending time outdoors.

THIS YEAR'S THEME IS...

This year's theme is all about Minnesota's beautiful North Shore and the Lake Superior agate, which was officially recognized by the Minnesota Legislature in 2026.

If you're looking for inspiration, you've got plenty to work with. Think crashing waterfalls, towering pine forests, rocky shorelines, wildlife, scenic hiking trails, dramatic cliffs, sparkling Lake Superior, or even the colorful beauty of an agate itself. Maybe you want to visit the north shore for some inspiration first... whatever inspires you...now is the time to act.

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THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

There are a few rules you'll want to know before you start sketching.

• The contest is open to all Minnesota residents, and you're welcome to submit more than one design if inspiration strikes more than once.
• Every design must be created by a person. Artificial intelligence-generated artwork is not allowed, following legislation passed earlier this year.

HOW TO ENTER

While submissions don't officially open until this fall, you don't have to wait to get started. Entries will be accepted online from September 15th through October 31st, 2026, giving artists several weeks to submit their ideas.

WHAT IF YOU'RE 'ARTISTICALLY CHALLENGED?'

Even if drawing stick figures is about the extent of your artistic talent, you can still be part of the fun.

Once the finalists have been selected, Minnesotans will get the chance to vote for their favorite design in early December.

So whether you're creating the artwork or simply cheering on your favorite design, everyone can have a voice in choosing the next specialty plate.

WHAT WILL YOU CREATE?

I have to admit, I'm excited to see what people come up with. Minnesota has no shortage of talented artists, and with scenery as beautiful as the North Shore, I have a feeling the competition is going to be incredible.

ARE YOU UP FOR THE CHALLENGE?

Dust off those pencils, paints, markers, or digital drawing tablets and start creating. Your artwork could end up traveling Minnesota's highways for years to come, reminding all of us just how beautiful our state really is.