Wisconsin DOT brings back old law to help replace damaged license plates

WISCONSIN (CBS 58) -- Upwards of a million cars are still driving the roads of Wisconsin with license plates that are more than 20 years old. 

The Department of Transportation (DOT) says it is working on getting those drivers new plates, but it will take some time. 

If you're driving around Wisconsin with a plate that is peeling, fading or just downright hard to read, the DOT says it's your responsibility to get those plates replaced. 

However, they're trying to ease the burden of you taking a trip to the DMV.

"We are targeting those oldest plates first, from the 2000s, 2005 time range," said Jeremy Krueger, DOT supervisor. "We are getting those replaced."

Jeremy Krueger, a plate room supervisor with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, says there are millions of Wisconsin license plates which have seen better days. 

"They've seen a lot of miles, they've seen a lot of winters, so that is one of the biggest reasons those plates are starting to peel," he said. 

Last year, the DOT worked with the state Legislature to bring back a law that requires the state to automatically replace plates that are 10 years or older. The law adds $8 to the cost of a license plate renewal. 

"When you receive your renewal notice, you'll see that fee added in as well," said Krueger. 

And while the added cost is never fun, Krueger says a legible plate is a safe plate. 

"Having them be legible so law enforcement can track down a vehicle or make sure a vehicle is following all the appropriate laws is definitely a part of this process as well," he said. 

The DOT does guarantee that your plate will last for at least five years. And if you think your plates are fine after 10 years, the DOT says they will still send you a new one.