Albertans now have the opportunity to select from eight distinct license plate designs, as the provincial government has announced the introduction of new plates set to launch next year. These designs, along with a voting bracket, were disclosed during a news conference on Wednesday afternoon.
All the new designs will feature the motto “Strong and Free,” which is the motto of Alberta. Premier Danielle Smith emphasized that this inclusion pays tribute to Canada’s national anthem and Alberta’s status as a robust and independent province within a united Canada.
Residents can participate in the voting process by visiting a designated page on the province’s website and choosing their preferred design until November 5. The design options showcase various landscapes, with some including pumpjacks and cowboys to highlight Alberta’s natural beauty and collective identity.
During the news conference, both Premier Smith and Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally addressed inquiries regarding the potential political motivation behind incorporating the motto. Minister Nally clarified that the motto is a provincial slogan and emphasized its presence in the national anthem, stressing that the concept of being “strong and free” transcends political affiliations.
Regarding the financial aspect, Minister Nally mentioned that the redesign did not receive additional funding, and the expenses are covered within the current budget. The expected implementation costs for the new plates range from $25,000 to $50,000. Despite the upcoming changes, the current license plate design that features “Wild Rose Country” will still incorporate the provincial flower in all the new options for voting.
The province announced that individuals interested in obtaining the new plate design upon release can choose to pay a voluntary $28 fee. Alternatively, they can receive the new plate during their vehicle registration renewal, at no extra charge. It was also noted that motorists can continue using their existing license plate as long as it remains in good condition after the new plates are introduced.
