Classic Plates or Antique Plates... What's the Difference?

Buying a car 25 years old or older? In this publication we will discuss the difference between Classic and Antique plates.

1. Age of Vehicle

• Antique plates: The vehicle must be at least 25 years old.

• Classic Plates: The vehicle must also be 25 years old or older.

Restrictions on Use

• Antique Plates: The vehicle can only be used for limited uses, for example:

  • Club activities

  • Exhibits

  • Parades

  • Events of public interest

  • Test drives to make sure the car is in good working order (inspection, etc.)

• Daily use is not permitted under the antique plates, except for these specific events.

• Classic Plates: The vehicle may be used for limited driving in addition to the events listed above. This means that you can use the car for normal transportation, but it should not be used as your primary or daily vehicle.

3. Inspection Requirements

• Antique license plates: Vehicles registered as antique are exempt from annual safety inspections.

• Classic license plates: Vehicles with classic license plates must pass an annual safety inspection if driven on public roads.

4. Insurance

• Classic Plates: Yes, insurance is required if the vehicle is used for any type of regular driving. You must maintain at least the minimum liability insurance required by Texas law. Contact us about classic car insurance!

• Antique license plates: Insurance is generally required only if you drive the car on public roads for exhibitions, parades, etc. Many insurers offer special insurance policies for antique cars, which are usually lower cost but limit the use of the vehicle. If the vehicle will only be used for shows, exhibitions, etc. you can use the SR-22 form instead of getting auto insurance. If you make the title change and use this form, we can apply for it.

5. Rates

• Antique Plates: You can register the vehicle for up to 5 years at a time, and the registration fee is relatively low. No inspection is required.

• Classic Plates: Registration fees are higher because they are more in line with regular vehicle registration. You must also pay for inspection and insurance.

Summary of Differences:

• Antique Plates: Only allowed for exhibitions, parades and test drives. No inspection or insurance is required, unless used on public roads for those purposes.

• Classic Plates: Allows limited driving. Annual inspection and insurance required.

How we can help you:

• If you decide to let us take care of the paperwork for you, we will do everything; from filling out the necessary paperwork to getting you your registration, plates, and title. If you need insurance for your classic or antique car we can also help you.

  ***Get $10 off your processing if you show us this page or tell us you came from our website! :D***