HF 1071

as introduced - 86th Legislature (2009 - 2010) Posted on 02/09/2010 01:43am

A bill for an act
relating to vehicle license plates; converting to single license plate system for
vehicle registration; making technical changes; removing obsolete language;
amending Minnesota Statutes 2008, sections 16B.581; 168.012, subdivisions 1,
1c; 168.013, subdivision 3; 168.021; 168.032; 168.041, subdivisions 5, 6, 7;
168.0422; 168.053, subdivision 1; 168.09, subdivisions 1, 3, 7; 168.098; 168.10,
subdivisions 1g, 1h, 1i, 3; 168.105, subdivisions 2, 3, 5; 168.12, subdivisions
1, 2, 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e, 2f; 168.123, subdivisions 1, 4; 168.1235, subdivisions
1, 4; 168.124; 168.125; 168.1251; 168.1255; 168.126, subdivision 2; 168.127,
subdivision 5; 168.128, subdivision 2; 168.129, subdivisions 1, 4; 168.1291,
subdivision 4; 168.1293, subdivision 5; 168.1296, subdivisions 1, 4; 168.1297;
168.1298, subdivision 1; 168.13; 168.15; 168.16; 168.27, subdivisions 16, 28;
168.29; 168.301, subdivision 4; 168.31, subdivisions 4, 5; 168.36; 168.62,
subdivision 3; 169.041, subdivision 5; 169.345, subdivision 4; 169.79; 169A.37,
subdivision 1; 169A.55, subdivision 2; 221.031, subdivision 6; 297B.01,
subdivision 15; 325F.662, subdivision 1; 609B.231, subdivision 2; 609B.237,
subdivision 2.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 16B.581, is amended to read:

16B.581 DISTINCTIVE TAX-EXEMPT LICENSE deleted text begin PLATES deleted text end new text begin PLATE new text end .

Vehicles owned or leased by the state of Minnesota must display distinctive
tax-exempt license plates unless otherwise exempted under section 168.012. The
commissioner shall design these distinctive plates subject to the approval of the registrar.
An administrative fee of $20 and a license plate fee of $10 for deleted text begin two plates deleted text end new text begin one plate new text end per
vehicle or a license plate fee of $5 for one plate per trailer is paid at the time of registration.
The license plate registration is valid for the life of the vehicle or until the vehicle is no
longer owned or leased by the state of Minnesota.

When the state of Minnesota applies for distinctive tax-exempt plates on vehicles
previously owned by local units of government, it shall pay an administrative fee of $10
and a plate fee that covers the cost of replacement.

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.012, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Vehicles exempt from tax, fees, or plate display.

(a) The following
vehicles are exempt from the provisions of this chapter requiring payment of tax and
registration fees, except as provided in subdivision 1c:

(1) vehicles owned and used solely in the transaction of official business by the
federal government, the state, or any political subdivision;

(2) vehicles owned and used exclusively by educational institutions and used solely
in the transportation of pupils to and from those institutions;

(3) vehicles used solely in driver education programs at nonpublic high schools;

(4) vehicles owned by nonprofit charities and used exclusively to transport disabled
persons for charitable, religious, or educational purposes;

(5) vehicles owned by nonprofit charities and used exclusively for disaster response
and related activities;

(6) vehicles owned by ambulance services licensed under section 144E.10, that
are equipped and specifically intended for emergency response or providing ambulance
services; and

(7) vehicles owned by a commercial driving school licensed under section 171.34,
or an employee of a commercial driving school licensed under section 171.34, and the
vehicle is used exclusively for driver education and training.

(b) Vehicles owned by the federal government, municipal fire apparatuses including
fire-suppression support vehicles, police patrols, and ambulances, the general appearance
of which is unmistakable, are not required to register or display number plates.

(c) Unmarked vehicles used in general police work, liquor investigations, or arson
investigations, and passenger automobiles, pickup trucks, and buses owned or operated by
the Department of Corrections, must be registered and must display appropriate license
number plates, furnished by the registrar at cost. Original and renewal applications for
these license plates authorized for use in general police work and for use by the Department
of Corrections must be accompanied by a certification signed by the appropriate chief of
police if issued to a police vehicle, the appropriate sheriff if issued to a sheriff's vehicle,
the commissioner of corrections if issued to a Department of Corrections vehicle, or the
appropriate officer in charge if issued to a vehicle of any other law enforcement agency.
The certification must be on a form prescribed by the commissioner and state that the
vehicle will be used exclusively for a purpose authorized by this section.

(d) Unmarked vehicles used by the Departments of Revenue and Labor and Industry,
fraud unit, in conducting seizures or criminal investigations must be registered and must
display passenger vehicle classification license number plates, furnished at cost by the
registrar. Original and renewal applications for these passenger vehicle license plates
must be accompanied by a certification signed by the commissioner of revenue or the
commissioner of labor and industry. The certification must be on a form prescribed by
the commissioner and state that the vehicles will be used exclusively for the purposes
authorized by this section.

(e) Unmarked vehicles used by the Division of Disease Prevention and Control of the
Department of Health must be registered and must display passenger vehicle classification
license number plates. These plates must be furnished at cost by the registrar. Original
and renewal applications for these passenger vehicle license plates must be accompanied
by a certification signed by the commissioner of health. The certification must be on a
form prescribed by the commissioner and state that the vehicles will be used exclusively
for the official duties of the Division of Disease Prevention and Control.

(f) Unmarked vehicles used by staff of the Gambling Control Board in gambling
investigations and reviews must be registered and must display passenger vehicle
classification license number plates. These plates must be furnished at cost by the
registrar. Original and renewal applications for these passenger vehicle license plates must
be accompanied by a certification signed by the board chair. The certification must be on a
form prescribed by the commissioner and state that the vehicles will be used exclusively
for the official duties of the Gambling Control Board.

(g) Each state hospital and institution for persons who are mentally ill and
developmentally disabled may have one vehicle without the required identification on the
sides of the vehicle. The vehicle must be registered and must display new text begin a new text end passenger vehicle
classification license number deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end . deleted text begin These plates deleted text end new text begin The plate new text end must be furnished at cost
by the registrar. Original and renewal applications for deleted text begin these deleted text end new text begin this new text end passenger vehicle license
deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end must be accompanied by a certification signed by the hospital administrator.
The certification must be on a form prescribed by the commissioner and state that
the deleted text begin vehicles deleted text end new text begin vehicle new text end will be used exclusively for the official duties of the state hospital
or institution.

(h) Each county social service agency may have vehicles used for child and
vulnerable adult protective services without the required identification on the sides of the
vehicle. The vehicles must be registered and must display passenger vehicle classification
license number plates. These plates must be furnished at cost by the registrar. Original
and renewal applications for these passenger vehicle license plates must be accompanied
by a certification signed by the agency administrator. The certification must be on a form
prescribed by the commissioner and state that the vehicles will be used exclusively for the
official duties of the social service agency.

(i) All other motor vehicles must be registered and display tax-exempt number
plates, furnished by the registrar at cost, except as provided in subdivision 1c. All
vehicles required to display tax-exempt number plates must have the name of the state
department or political subdivision, nonpublic high school operating a driver education
program, licensed commercial driving school, or other qualifying organization or entity,
plainly displayed on both sides of the vehicle. This identification must be in a color
giving contrast with that of the part of the vehicle on which it is placed and must endure
throughout the term of the registration. The identification must not be on a removable
plate or placard and must be kept clean and visible at all times; except that a removable
plate or placard may be utilized on vehicles leased or loaned to a political subdivision or
to a nonpublic high school driver education program.

Sec. 3.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.012, subdivision 1c, is amended to read:

Subd. 1c.

Payment of administrative, plate, and filing fee.

The annual
administrative fee for a tax-exempt vehicle under this section is $5. The license plate fee
for a tax-exempt vehicle, except a trailer, is $10 for deleted text begin two plates deleted text end new text begin one plate new text end per vehicle,
payable only on the first tax-exempt registration of the vehicle. The registration period
for a tax-exempt vehicle is biennial. The administrative fee is due on March 1 biennially
and payable the preceding January 1, with new text begin a new text end validating deleted text begin stickers deleted text end new text begin sticker new text end issued at time of
payment.

Sec. 4.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.013, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Application; cancellation; excessive gross weight forbidden.

(a) The
applicant for all licenses based on gross weight shall state the unloaded weight of the
motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer and the maximum load the applicant proposes to carry
on it, the sum of which constitutes the gross weight upon which the license tax must be
paid. However, the declared gross weight upon which the tax is paid must not be less than
1-1/4 times the declared unloaded weight of the motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer
to be registered, except recreational vehicles taxed under subdivision 1g, school buses
taxed under subdivision 18, and tow trucks or towing vehicles defined in section 169.011,
subdivision 83. The gross weight of a tow truck or towing vehicle is the actual weight
of the tow truck or towing vehicle fully equipped, but does not include the weight of a
wrecked or disabled vehicle towed or drawn by the tow truck or towing vehicle.

(b) The gross weight of a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer must not exceed
the gross weight upon which the license tax has been paid by more than four percent or
1,000 pounds, whichever is greater; provided that, a vehicle transporting unfinished forest
products on a highway, other than a highway that is part of the system of interstate and
defense highways, unless a federal exemption is granted, in accordance with paragraph
(d)(3):

(1) shall not exceed its gross vehicle weight upon which the license tax has been
paid, or gross axle weight on any axle, by more than five percent and, notwithstanding
other law to the contrary, is not subject to any fee, fine, or other assessment or penalty for
exceeding a gross vehicle or axle weight by up to five percent; and

(2) between the dates set by the commissioner in accordance with section 169.826,
subdivision 1, is not subject to any provision of paragraph (d) or chapter 169 limiting
the gross axle weight of any individual axle unless the entire vehicle also exceeds its
gross vehicle weight plus its weight allowance allowed in clause (1) and plus any weight
allowance permitted under section 169.826, in which case the vehicle is subject to all
applicable penalties for excess weight violations.

(c) The gross weight of the motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer for which the
license tax is paid must be indicated by a distinctive character on the license plate or
plates except as provided in subdivision 12 and the plate deleted text begin or plates deleted text end must be kept clean
and clearly visible at all times.

(d) The owner, driver, or user of a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer, upon
conviction for transporting a gross weight in excess of the gross weight for which it was
registered or for operating a vehicle with an axle weight exceeding the maximum lawful
axle load weight, is guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to increased registration or
reregistration according to the following schedule:

(1) Upon conviction for transporting a gross weight in excess of the gross weight
for which a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer is registered by more than the allowance
set forth in paragraph (b) but less than 25 percent, or for operating or using a motor
vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer with an axle weight exceeding the maximum lawful axle
load as provided in sections 169.822 to 169.829 by more than the allowance set forth in
paragraph (b) but less than 25 percent, the owner, driver, or user of the motor vehicle,
trailer, or semitrailer used to commit the violation, in addition to any penalty imposed for
the misdemeanor, shall apply to the registrar to increase the authorized gross weight to
be carried on the vehicle to a weight equal to or greater than the gross weight the owner,
driver, or user was convicted of carrying. The increase is computed for the balance of
the calendar year on the basis of 1/12 of the annual tax for each month remaining in the
calendar year beginning with the first day of the month in which the violation occurred.
If the additional registration tax computed upon that weight, plus the tax already paid,
amounts to more than the regular tax for the maximum gross weight permitted for the
vehicle under sections 169.822 to 169.829, that additional amount must nevertheless be
paid into the highway fund, but the additional tax thus paid does not authorize or permit
any person to operate the vehicle with a gross weight in excess of the maximum legal
weight as provided by sections 169.822 to 169.829. Unless the owner within 30 days
after a conviction applies to increase the authorized weight and pays the additional tax
as provided in this section, the registrar shall revoke the registration on the vehicle and
demand the return of the registration card and plates issued on that registration.

(2) Upon conviction of an owner, driver, or user of a motor vehicle, trailer, or
semitrailer for transporting a gross weight in excess of the gross weight for which the
motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer was registered by 25 percent or more or for operating
or using the vehicle or trailer with an axle weight exceeding the maximum lawful axle load
as provided in sections 169.822 to 169.829 by 25 percent or more, and in addition to any
penalty imposed for the misdemeanor, the registrar shall either (i) cancel the reciprocity
privileges on the vehicle involved if the vehicle is being operated under reciprocity
or (ii) if the vehicle is not being operated under reciprocity, cancel the certificate of
registration on the vehicle operated and demand the return of the registration certificate
and registration plates. The registrar may not cancel the registration or reciprocity
privileges for any vehicle found in violation of seasonal load restrictions imposed under
section 169.87 unless the axle weight exceeds the year-round weight limit for the highway
on which the violation occurred. The registrar may investigate any allegation of gross
weight violations and demand that the operator show cause why all future operating
privileges in the state should not be revoked unless the additional tax assessed is paid.

(3) Clause (1) does not apply to the first haul of unprocessed or raw farm products
or unfinished forest products, when the registered gross weight is not exceeded by more
than ten percent. For purposes of this clause, "first haul" means (i) the first, continuous
transportation of unprocessed or raw farm products from the place of production or
on-farm storage site to any other location within 50 miles of the place of production or
on-farm storage site, or (ii) the continuous or noncontinuous transportation of unfinished
forest products from the place of production to the place of final processing or manufacture
located within 200 miles of the place of production.

(4) When the registration on a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer is revoked by the
registrar according to this section, the vehicle must not be operated on the highways of the
state until it is registered or reregistered, as the case may be, and new plates issued, and
the registration fee is the annual tax for the total gross weight of the vehicle at the time of
violation. The reregistration pursuant to this subdivision of any vehicle operating under
reciprocity agreements pursuant to section 168.181 or 168.187 must be at the full annual
registration fee without regard to the percentage of vehicle miles traveled in this state.

Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.021, is amended to read:

168.021 deleted text begin PLATES deleted text end new text begin PLATE new text end FOR PHYSICALLY DISABLED PERSONS.

Subdivision 1.

Disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end ; application.

(a) When a motor vehicle
registered under section 168.017, a motorcycle, a truck having a manufacturer's nominal
rated capacity of one ton and resembling a pickup truck, or a self-propelled recreational
vehicle is owned or primarily operated by a permanently physically disabled person or a
custodial parent or guardian of a permanently physically disabled minor, the owner may
apply for and secure from the commissioner (1) immediately, a temporary permit valid for
30 days if the applicant is eligible for the disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued under this section
and (2) deleted text begin two deleted text end new text begin one new text end disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end with attached deleted text begin emblems deleted text end new text begin emblem new text end , deleted text begin one plate deleted text end to be
attached to the deleted text begin front, and one to the deleted text end rear of the motor vehicle.

(b) The commissioner shall not issue more than one deleted text begin set of plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end to any owner
of a motor vehicle at the same time unless the state Council on Disability approves the
issuance of a second deleted text begin set of plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end to a motor vehicle owner.

(c) When the owner first applies for the disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , the owner must submit
a medical statement in a format approved by the commissioner under section 169.345, or
proof of physical disability provided for in that section.

(d) No medical statement or proof of disability is required when an owner of a motor
vehicle applies for plates for one or more motor vehicles that are specially modified for
and used exclusively by permanently physically disabled persons.

(e) The owner of a motor vehicle may apply for and secure (i) immediately, a permit
valid for 30 days, if the applicant is eligible to receive the disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued
under this section, and (ii) deleted text begin a set of deleted text end new text begin the new text end disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end for a motor vehicle if:

(1) the owner employs a permanently physically disabled person who would qualify
for new text begin a new text end disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end under this section; and

(2) the owner furnishes the motor vehicle to the physically disabled person for the
exclusive use of that person in the course of employment.

Subd. 1a.

Scope of privilege.

If a physically disabled person parks a motor vehicle
displaying deleted text begin the deleted text end new text begin a new text end disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end described in this section, or a permit valid for
30 days and issued to an eligible person awaiting receipt of the disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end
described in this section, or any person parks the motor vehicle for a physically disabled
person, that person is entitled to park the motor vehicle as provided in section 169.345.

Subd. 2.

Plate design; furnished by commissioner.

The commissioner shall design
and furnish deleted text begin two deleted text end new text begin one new text end disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end with new text begin an new text end attached deleted text begin emblems deleted text end new text begin emblem new text end to an
eligible owner. The emblem must bear the internationally accepted wheelchair symbol,
as designated in section 326B.106, subdivision 9, approximately three inches square.
The emblem must be large enough to be visible plainly from a distance of 50 feet. An
applicant eligible for new text begin a new text end disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end shall pay the motor vehicle registration fee
authorized by sections 168.013 and 168.09.

Subd. 2a.

Plate transfer.

(a) When motor vehicle ownership is transferred, the
owner of the motor vehicle shall remove the disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end . The buyer of the motor
vehicle is entitled to receive new text begin a new text end regular deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end for the motor vehicle without further
cost for the remainder of the registration period.

(b) Notwithstanding section 168.12, subdivision 1, the disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end may be
transferred to a replacement motor vehicle on notification to the commissioner. However,
the disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end may not be transferred unless the replacement motor vehicle (1)
is listed under section 168.012, subdivision 1, and (2) is owned or primarily operated by
the permanently physically disabled person.

Subd. 2b.

When not eligible.

On becoming ineligible for the disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end ,
the owner of the motor vehicle shall remove the disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end . The owner may
receive new text begin a new text end regular deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end for the motor vehicle without further cost for the remainder
of the registration period.

Subd. 3.

Penalties for unauthorized use of deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

(a) A person who uses
the disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or permit provided under this section on a motor vehicle in
violation of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor, and is subject to a fine of $500. This
subdivision does not preclude a person who is not physically disabled from operating a
motor vehicle bearing the disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or permit if:

(1) the person is the owner of the motor vehicle and permits its operation by a
physically disabled person;

(2) the person operates the motor vehicle with the consent of the owner who is
physically disabled; or

(3) the person is the owner of the motor vehicle, is the custodial parent or guardian
of a permanently physically disabled minor, and operates the motor vehicle to transport
the minor.

(b) A driver who is not disabled is not entitled to the parking privileges provided
in this section and in section 169.346 unless parking the motor vehicle for a physically
disabled person.

Subd. 4.

Fees; disposition.

All fees collected from the sale of disability plates
under this section must be deposited in the state treasury to the credit of the highway
user tax distribution fund.

Subd. 5.

Definitions.

For the purposes of this section, the term "physically disabled
person" has the meaning given it in section 169.345, subdivision 2.

Subd. 6.

Driver's license law not affected.

This section must not be construed to
revoke, limit, or amend chapter 171.

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.032, is amended to read:

168.032 PROPORTIONATE REFUND TO PERSON ON ACTIVE MILITARY
SERVICE.

If deleted text begin such deleted text end new text begin a new text end person deleted text begin shall have deleted text end new text begin has new text end paid the new text begin motor vehicle registration new text end tax for the year
when entering upon deleted text begin such deleted text end active new text begin military new text end service new text begin , new text end the person shall surrender to the registrar
on applying for the exemption new text begin under section 168.031 new text end the number deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued
upon the registration. Upon proper application and surrender of the number deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end ,
the registrar shall refund to the applicant deleted text begin from the motor vehicle license suspense fund deleted text end new text begin
pursuant to section 16A.155 new text end the portion of the tax paid proportionate to the portion of the
year during which the motor vehicle will not be used on any highway of the state.

Sec. 7.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.041, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Revocation rescinded.

If the driver's license revocation that is the
basis for an impoundment order is rescinded, the registrar of motor vehicles shall issue
new text begin a new text end new registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end for the vehicle at no cost, when the registrar receives an
application that includes a copy of the order rescinding the driver's license revocation.

Sec. 8.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.041, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Special series deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

(a) A violator or owner may apply to the
commissioner for new text begin a new text end new registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , which must bear a special series of
numbers or letters so as to be readily identified by traffic law enforcement officers. The
commissioner may authorize the issuance of new text begin a new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end if a member of the
violator's household has a valid driver's license, the violator or owner has a limited license
issued under section 171.30, or the owner is not the violator and the owner has a valid or
limited license or a member of the owner's household has a valid driver's license. The
commissioner may issue the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end on payment of a $25 fee for each vehicle
for which new text begin a new text end special deleted text begin plates are deleted text end new text begin plate is new text end requested. The commissioner may not authorize the
issuance of new text begin a new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end unless the court that impounded the vehicle's deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end
gives written approval for the issuance of the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

(b) Until the driver's license of the violator is reinstated or reissued, the violator
shall inform the commissioner that an impoundment order is in effect when requesting
any new registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

Sec. 9.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.041, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

Transferring vehicle when deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end impounded.

A registered owner
may not sell a motor vehicle during the time its registration deleted text begin plates have deleted text end new text begin plate has new text end been
ordered surrendered or during the time its registration deleted text begin plates bear deleted text end new text begin plate bears new text end a special
series number, unless the registered owner applies to the court that impounded the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin
plate new text end , for consent to transfer title to the motor vehicle. If the court is satisfied that the
proposed sale is in good faith and for a valid consideration, that the registered owner will
be deprived of the custody and control of the motor vehicle, and that the sale is not for the
purpose of circumventing the provisions of this section, it may certify its consent to the
registrar of motor vehicles. The registrar shall then transfer the certificate of title to the
new owner upon proper application and issue new text begin a new text end new registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end . After the
registration deleted text begin plates have deleted text end new text begin plate has new text end been ordered surrendered to the court under this section,
if the title to the motor vehicle is transferred by the foreclosure of a chattel mortgage, the
cancellation of a conditional sales contract, a sale upon execution, or by decree or order of
a court of competent jurisdiction, the registrar of motor vehicles shall then transfer the
certificate of title and issue new text begin a new text end new registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end to the new registered owner.

Sec. 10.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.0422, is amended to read:

168.0422 STOP OF deleted text begin VEHICLES deleted text end new text begin VEHICLE new text end BEARING SPECIAL SERIES
deleted text begin PLATES deleted text end new text begin PLATE new text end .

A peace officer who observes the operation of a motor vehicle within this state
bearing new text begin a new text end special series registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued under section 168.041, subdivision
6, or 169A.60, subdivision 13, may stop the vehicle for the purpose of determining
whether the driver is operating the vehicle lawfully under a valid driver's license.

Sec. 11.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.053, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Application; fee; penalty.

Any person, firm, or corporation engaged
in the business of transporting motor vehicles owned by another, by delivering, by
drive-away or towing methods, either singly or by means of the full mount method, the
saddle mount method, the tow bar method, or any other combination thereof, and under
their own power, vehicles over the highways of the state from the manufacturer or any
other point of origin, to any point of destination, within or without the state, shall make
application to the registrar for a drive-away in-transit license. This application for annual
license shall be accompanied by a registration fee of $250 and contain such information
as the registrar may require. Upon the filing of the application and the payment of the
fee, the registrar shall issue to each drive-away operator a drive-away in-transit license
plate, which must be carried and displayed on the power unit consistent with section
169.79 and the plate shall remain on the vehicle while being operated within the state.
Additional drive-away in-transit license plates desired by any drive-away operator may
be secured from the registrar of motor vehicles upon the payment of a fee of $5 for each
deleted text begin set of deleted text end additional deleted text begin license plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end . Any person, firm, or corporation engaging in the
business as a drive-away operator, of transporting and delivering by means of full mount
method, the saddle mount method, the tow bar method, or any combination thereof, and
under their own power, motor vehicles, who fails or refuses to file or cause to be filed an
application, as is required by law, and to pay the fees therefor as the law requires, shall
be found guilty of violating the provisions of sections 168.053 to 168.057; and, upon
conviction, fined not less than $50, and not more than $100, and all costs of court. Each
day so operating without securing the license and deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end as required therein shall
constitute a separate offense within the meaning thereof.

Sec. 12.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.09, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Registration required.

No trailer or motor vehicle, except as is
exempted by section 168.012, may be used or operated upon the public streets or highways
of the state in any calendar year until it is registered as provided in this section, the motor
vehicle tax and fees as provided in this chapter are paid, and the number deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued
for the trailer or motor vehicle deleted text begin are deleted text end new text begin is new text end displayed on it. No trailer or motor vehicle, except as
provided by section 168.012, which for any reason is not subject to taxation as provided in
this chapter, may be used or operated upon the public streets or highways of this state until
it is registered as provided in this section and displays new text begin a new text end number deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end as required
by this chapter, except that the purchaser of a new trailer or motor vehicle may operate it
without deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a plate new text end if the permit authorized by section 168.091 or 168.092 is displayed.

Sec. 13.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.09, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Proratable vehicles; other vehicles.

(a) deleted text begin Plates deleted text end new text begin A plate new text end or other insignia
issued for a motor vehicle registered under section 168.187 for a calendar year deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin must new text end
be displayed on the motor vehicle not later than 12:01 a.m. on March 2 of the year unless
extended by the registrar for the period of time required for the issuance of the new deleted text begin plates deleted text end
new text begin plate new text end or insignia. deleted text begin The commissioner of public safety shall register all motor vehicles
registered under section 168.187 for a period of 14 months for the registration year
1994 to implement this subdivision. deleted text end The registration year for vehicles registered under
section 168.187, as provided in this section, is from March 1 to the last day of February
for 1995 and succeeding years.

(b) Except for a motor vehicle registered under section 168.017 or 168.187, deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a
plate new text end or other insignia issued for a self-propelled motor vehicle registered for over 27,000
pounds deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin must new text end be displayed on the vehicle not later than 12:01 a.m. on March 2 of the
year, and, except for recreational equipment, not earlier than 12:01 a.m. on February 15
of the year, unless otherwise extended by the registrar for the period of time required for
issuing the new deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or insignia.

(c) Except for a motor vehicle registered under section 168.017 or 168.187, deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin
a plate new text end or other insignia issued for a self-propelled vehicle registered for 27,000 pounds
or less and all other motor vehicles deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin must new text end be displayed not later than 12:01 a.m. on
March 2 of the year, and, except for recreational equipment, not earlier than January 1
of the year unless otherwise extended by the registrar for the period of time required for
issuing the new deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or insignia. The registration year for all vehicles as provided
in this paragraph and paragraph (b) is from March 1 to the last day of February for 1979
and succeeding years.

Sec. 14.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.09, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

Display of temporary permit.

(a) A vehicle that displays a Minnesota
plate issued under this chapter may display a temporary permit in conjunction with
expired registration if:

(1) the current registration tax and all other fees and taxes have been paid in full; and

(2) the plate has been applied for.

(b) A vehicle may display a temporary permit in conjunction with expired
registration, with or without a registration plate, if:

(1) the deleted text begin plates have deleted text end new text begin plate has new text end been applied for;

(2) the registration tax and other fees and taxes have been paid in full; and

(3) either the vehicle is used solely as a collector vehicle while displaying the
temporary permit and not used for general transportation purposes or the vehicle was
issued a 21-day permit under section 168.092, subdivision 1.

(c) The permit is valid for a period of 60 days. The permit must be in a format
prescribed by the commissioner and whenever practicable must be posted upon the
driver's side of the rear window on the inside of the vehicle. The permit is valid only for
the vehicle for which it was issued to allow a reasonable time for the new deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end to
be manufactured and delivered to the applicant. The permit may be issued only by the
commissioner or by a deputy registrar under section 168.33.

Sec. 15.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.098, is amended to read:

168.098 REGISTRATION OF PARK TRAILER.

The motor vehicle registrar shall issue a registration receipt for a park trailer on
payment of annual registration tax but may not issue new text begin a new text end license deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or other
insignia. The receipt must be in the form prescribed by the commissioner and must
provide the name and address of the owner, the dimensions of the park trailer, and other
information required by the registrar.

Sec. 16.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.10, subdivision 1g, is amended to read:

Subd. 1g.

Original deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

A vehicle registered pursuant to subdivision 1a,
1b, 1c or 1d may new text begin , new text end in lieu of being issued new text begin a new text end number deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end by the commissioner new text begin , new text end
display new text begin an new text end original Minnesota number deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued in the same year as the model
year of the car on which deleted text begin they are deleted text end new text begin it was new text end displayed. The number of the original deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin
plate new text end must be provided to the commissioner. The original deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end must be in good
condition. new text begin An new text end original Minnesota number deleted text begin plates shall deleted text end new text begin plate must new text end not be used if the number
on the original plate is identical to a number on any current plate or any other plate in a
numbering system used by the commissioner without written authorization from the
commissioner. Any person currently using deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a plate new text end issued pursuant to subdivision
1a, 1b, 1c or 1d shall return deleted text begin those plates deleted text end new text begin the plate new text end to the commissioner before substituting
new text begin an new text end original deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end . The commissioner shall charge a fee of $10 for registering the
number on new text begin an new text end original deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

Sec. 17.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.10, subdivision 1h, is amended to read:

Subd. 1h.

Collector military vehicle.

(a) A motor vehicle, including a truck, shall
be listed and registered under this section if it meets the following conditions:

(1) it is at least 20 years old;

(2) its first owner following its manufacture was a branch of the armed forces of
the United States and it presently conforms to the vehicle specifications required during
the time of military ownership, or it has been restored and presently conforms to the
specifications required by a branch of the armed forces for the model year that the restored
vehicle could have been owned by that branch of the armed forces; and

(3) it is owned by a nonprofit organization and operated solely as a collector's
vehicle. For purposes of this subdivision, "nonprofit organization" means a corporation,
society, association, foundation, or institution organized and operated exclusively for
historical or educational purposes, no part of the net earnings of which inures to the
benefit of a private individual.

(b) The owner of the vehicle shall execute an affidavit stating the name and address
of the person from whom purchased and of the new owner; the make, year, and model
number of the motor vehicle; the manufacturer's identification number; and the collector
military vehicle identification number, if any, located on the exterior of the vehicle.
The affidavit must affirm that the vehicle is owned by a nonprofit organization and is
operated solely as a collector's item and not for general transportation purposes. If the
commissioner is satisfied that the affidavit is true and correct and the owner pays a $25 tax
and the plate fee authorized under section 168.12, the commissioner shall list the vehicle
for taxation and registration and shall issue new text begin a new text end number deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end . The number deleted text begin plates
shall deleted text end new text begin plate must new text end bear the inscriptions "Collector" and "Minnesota" and the registration
number, but no date. The number deleted text begin plates are deleted text end new text begin plate is new text end valid without renewal as long as the
vehicle is in existence in Minnesota. The commissioner may revoke the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end for
failure to comply with this subdivision.

(c) Notwithstanding section 168.09, 168.12, or other law to the contrary, the owner
of a registered collector military vehicle is not required to display new text begin a new text end registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin
plate new text end on the exterior of the vehicle if the vehicle has an exterior number identification that
conforms to the identifying system for military vehicles in effect when the vehicle was
last owned by the branch of the armed forces of the United States or in effect in the year
to which the collector military vehicle has been restored. However, the state registration
deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end must be carried in or on the collector military vehicle at all times.

(d) The owner of a registered collector military vehicle that is not required to display
new text begin a new text end registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end under paragraph (c) may tow a registered trailer behind it. The
trailer is not required to display new text begin a new text end registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end if the trailer:

(1) does not exceed a gross weight of 15,000 pounds;

(2) otherwise conforms to registration, licensing, and safety laws and specifications;

(3) conforms to military specifications for appearance and identification;

(4) is intended to represent and does represent a military trailer; and

(5) carries new text begin a new text end registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end on or in the trailer or the collector military
vehicle towing the trailer.

Sec. 18.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.10, subdivision 1i, is amended to read:

Subd. 1i.

Collector plate transfer.

Notwithstanding section 168.12, subdivision
1, on payment of a transfer fee of $5, deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a plate new text end issued under this section may be
transferred to another vehicle owned or jointly owned by the person to whom the special
deleted text begin plates were deleted text end new text begin plate was new text end issued or the plate may be assigned to another owner. In addition to
the transfer fee a new owner must pay the $25 tax and any fee required by section 168.12,
subdivision 2a. The $5 fee must be paid into the state treasury and credited to the highway
user tax distribution fund. new text begin A new text end license deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued under this section may not be
transferred to a vehicle not eligible for the collector's vehicle license deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

Sec. 19.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.10, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Offenses.

It deleted text begin shall be deleted text end new text begin is new text end unlawful for any person:

(1) to display or cause to be displayed or to possess any canceled, revoked,
suspended deleted text begin or deleted text end new text begin , new text end fraudulently obtained new text begin , new text end or stolen registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end ;

(2) to lend the person's registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end to another or knowingly to permit the
use thereof by another;

(3) to display or represent as the person's own any registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end not issued
to that person; provided, however, this shall not apply to any legal change of ownership
of the motor vehicle to which the deleted text begin plates are deleted text end new text begin plate is new text end attached, nor shall this apply to any
transfer of new text begin a new text end collector deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end under subdivision 1i;

(4) to fail or refuse to surrender to the department upon its lawful demand any
registration deleted text begin plates which have deleted text end new text begin plate that has new text end been revoked, canceled, or suspended by
proper authority;

(5) to use a false or fictitious name or address or description of the motor vehicle,
identification number, or serial number in any application for registration of a motor
vehicle or to knowingly make a false statement or to knowingly conceal a material fact or
otherwise commit a fraud in any such application;

(6) to destroy, alter, remove, cover new text begin , new text end or deface the identification or serial number of
any motor vehicle or to knowingly operate any motor vehicle the identification or serial
number of which has been destroyed, altered, removed, covered new text begin , new text end or defaced without first
making application for assignment of a special identification number as provided by law.

Sec. 20.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.105, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Affidavit for registration and taxation.

(a) A classic motorcycle must
be taxed and registered by the vehicle owner submitting an affidavit to the commissioner
stating (1) the name and address of the owner, (2) the name and address of the person from
whom purchased, (3) the make of the classic motorcycle, (4) the year and number of
the model, (5) the manufacturer's vehicle identification number, (6) that the motorcycle
is owned and operated solely as a collector's item and will not be used for general
transportation purposes, and (7) that the owner has one or more motor vehicles with
new text begin a new text end regular deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

(b) When the commissioner is satisfied that the affidavit is true, correct, and
complete and the owner has paid a $10 registration tax, the commissioner shall register the
vehicle and issue new text begin the new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

Sec. 21.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.105, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Classic deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

The commissioner shall issue deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a plate new text end of the
same size as new text begin a new text end standard motorcycle deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end and inscribed "collector" and "Minnesota"
with the registration number or other combination of characters authorized under section
168.12, subdivision 2a, but without a date. The deleted text begin plates are deleted text end new text begin plate is new text end valid without renewal as
long as the classic motorcycle exists and may be issued for the applicant's use only for the
classic motorcycle. The commissioner may revoke the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end for noncompliance
with this subdivision.

Sec. 22.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.105, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Original deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

(a) Instead of being issued new text begin a new text end classic motorcycle
deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , a classic motorcycle registered under this section may display new text begin an new text end original
Minnesota deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued in the same year as the model year of the motorcycle on
which deleted text begin they are deleted text end displayed. The number on the original deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end must be provided to
the commissioner.

(b) new text begin An new text end original Minnesota deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end may not be used if the number on the original
plate is identical to the number on a current collector's plate issued by the commissioner.

(c) If the vehicle is not registered as a collector vehicle, the commissioner shall
charge a fee of $10 for registering the number on the original deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

Sec. 23.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.12, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

deleted text begin Plates deleted text end new text begin Plate new text end ; design, visibility, periods of issuance.

(a) The
commissioner, upon approval and payment, shall issue to the applicant the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end
required by this chapter, bearing the state name and an assigned vehicle registration
number. The number assigned by the commissioner may be a combination of a letter or
sign with figures. The color of the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end and the color of the abbreviation of the
state name and the number assigned must be in marked contrast. The deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end must
be lettered, spaced, or distinguished to suitably indicate the registration of the vehicle
according to the rules of the commissioner.

(b) When a vehicle is registered on the basis of total gross weight, the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end
issued must clearly indicate by letters or other suitable insignia the maximum gross weight
for which the tax has been paid.

(c) The deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end must be so treated as to be at least 100 times brighter than the
conventional painted number plates. When properly mounted on an unlighted vehicle,
the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , when viewed from a vehicle equipped with standard headlights, must
be visible for a distance of not less than 1,500 feet and readable for a distance of not
less than 110 feet.

(d) The commissioner shall issue deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a plate new text end for the following periods:

(1) new text begin A new text end new deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued pursuant to section 168.012, subdivision 1, must be
issued to a vehicle for as long as the vehicle is owned by the exempt agency and the plate
shall not be transferable from one vehicle to another but the plate may be transferred with
the vehicle from one tax-exempt agency to another.

(2) deleted text begin Plates deleted text end new text begin A plate new text end issued for new text begin a new text end passenger deleted text begin automobiles deleted text end new text begin automobile new text end must be issued for
a seven-year period. All plates issued under this paragraph must be replaced if they are
seven years old or older at the time of registration renewal or will become so during the
registration period.

(3) deleted text begin Plates deleted text end new text begin A plate new text end issued under sections 168.053 and 168.27, subdivisions 16 and 17,
must be for a seven-year period.

(4) deleted text begin Plates deleted text end new text begin A plate new text end issued under subdivisions 2c and 2d and section 168.123 must
be issued for the life of the veteran under section 169.79.

(5) deleted text begin Plates deleted text end new text begin A plate new text end for any vehicle not specified in clauses (1) to (3) must be issued
for the life of the vehicle.

(e) In a year in which deleted text begin plates are deleted text end new text begin a plate is new text end not issued, the commissioner shall issue
for each registration a sticker to designate the year of registration. This sticker must
show the year or years for which the sticker is issued, and is valid only for that period.
The deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end and deleted text begin stickers deleted text end new text begin sticker new text end issued for a vehicle may not be transferred to another
vehicle during the period for which the sticker is issued, except when issued for a vehicle
registered under section 168.187.

(f) Despite any other provision of this subdivision, deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a plate new text end issued to a vehicle
used for behind-the-wheel instruction in a driver education course in a public school
may be transferred to another vehicle used for the same purpose without payment of any
additional fee. The public school shall notify the commissioner of each transfer of deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a
plate new text end under this paragraph. The commissioner may prescribe a format for notification.

Sec. 24.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.12, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Amateur radio deleted text begin licensee; deleted text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , rules.

(a) The commissioner
shall issue amateur radio plates to an applicant who:

(1) is an owner of a passenger automobile or recreational motor vehicle;

(2) is a resident of this state;

(3) holds an official amateur radio station license or a citizens radio service class D
license, in good standing, issued by the Federal Communications Commission;

(4) pays the registration tax required under section 168.013;

(5) pays a fee of $10 for each deleted text begin set of deleted text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end and any other fees required
by this chapter; and

(6) complies with this chapter and rules governing the registration of motor vehicles
and licensing of drivers;

(b) In lieu of the registration number required for identification under subdivision 1,
the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end must indicate the official amateur call letters of the applicant, as assigned
by the Federal Communications Commission, and the words "AMATEUR RADIO."

(c) This provision for the issue of new text begin a new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end applies only if the applicant's
motor vehicle is already registered in Minnesota so that the applicant has new text begin a new text end valid regular
Minnesota deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued for that motor vehicle under which to operate it during the
time that it will take to have the necessary special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end made.

(d) If owning more than one motor vehicle of the type specified in this subdivision,
the applicant may apply for new text begin a new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end for each motor vehicle and, if each
application complies with this subdivision, the commissioner shall furnish the applicant
with the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , indicating the official amateur call letters and other
distinguishing information as the commissioner considers necessary, for each of the motor
vehicles.

(e) The commissioner may make reasonable rules governing the use of the special
deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end as will assure the full compliance by the owner of the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , with
all existing laws governing the registration of motor vehicles and the transfer and use
of the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

(f) Despite any contrary provision of subdivision 1, the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued
under this subdivision may be transferred by an owner to another motor vehicle listed in
paragraph (a) and registered to the same owner, upon the payment of a fee of $5. The
commissioner must be notified before the transfer and may prescribe a format for the
notification.

Sec. 25.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.12, subdivision 2a, is amended to read:

Subd. 2a.

Personalized deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end ; rules.

(a) The commissioner may issue new text begin a
new text end personalized deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or, if requested for new text begin a new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued under section
168.123 for veterans, 168.124 for medal of honor recipients, or 168.125 for former
prisoners of war, new text begin the new text end applicable personalized deleted text begin special veterans plates deleted text end new text begin veteran's special plate new text end ,
to an applicant who:

(1) is an owner of a passenger automobile including a passenger automobile
registered as a classic car, pioneer car, collector car, or street rod; any truck with a
manufacturer's nominal rated capacity of one ton or less and resembling a pickup truck; a
motorcycle, including a classic motorcycle; a motorized bicycle; a commuter van as
defined in section 168.126; or a recreational vehicle;

(2) pays a onetime fee of $100 and any other fees required by this chapter;

(3) pays the registration tax required by this chapter for the motor vehicle; and

(4) complies with this chapter and rules governing registration of motor vehicles
and licensing of drivers.

(b) The commissioner shall charge a replacement fee for new text begin the new text end personalized license
deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end and personalized deleted text begin special veterans plates deleted text end new text begin veteran's special plate new text end issued under
section 168.123 as specified in subdivision 5. This fee must be paid by the applicant
whenever the personalized deleted text begin plates are deleted text end new text begin plate is new text end required to be replaced by law, except that as
provided in section 168.124, subdivision 3, and 168.125, subdivision 1b, no fee may be
charged to replace deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a plate new text end issued under those sections.

(c) In lieu of the registration number assigned as provided in subdivision 1, new text begin a
new text end personalized deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end and personalized deleted text begin special veterans plates deleted text end new text begin veteran's special plate new text end
must have imprinted on them a series of not more than seven numbers and letters, or five
numbers and letters for new text begin a new text end personalized deleted text begin special veterans plates deleted text end new text begin veteran's special plate new text end , in
any combination and, as applicable, satisfy the design requirements of section 168.123,
168.124, or 168.125. When an applicant has once obtained new text begin a new text end personalized deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end
or personalized deleted text begin special veterans plates deleted text end new text begin veteran's special plate new text end , the applicant shall have
a prior claim for new text begin the new text end similar personalized deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or personalized deleted text begin special veterans
plates deleted text end new text begin veteran's special plate new text end in the next succeeding year as long as current motor vehicle
registration is maintained.

(d) The commissioner shall adopt rules in the manner provided by chapter 14,
regulating the issuance and transfer of personalized plates and personalized deleted text begin special
veterans deleted text end new text begin veterans' special new text end plates. No words or combination of letters placed on these
plates may be used for commercial advertising, be of an obscene, indecent, or immoral
nature, or be of a nature that would offend public morals or decency. The call signals or
letters of a radio or television station are not commercial advertising for the purposes
of this subdivision.

(e) Despite the provisions of subdivision 1, new text begin a new text end personalized deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end and
personalized deleted text begin special veterans deleted text end deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin veteran's special plate new text end issued under this subdivision
may be transferred to another motor vehicle listed in paragraph (a) and owned by the
applicant, upon the payment of a fee of $5.

(f) The commissioner may by rule specify the format for notification.

(g) A personalized plate or personalized new text begin veteran's new text end special deleted text begin veterans deleted text end plate issued
for a classic car, pioneer car, collector car, street rod, or classic motorcycle may not be
transferred to a vehicle not eligible for such a plate.

(h) Despite any law to the contrary, if the personalized license deleted text begin plates are deleted text end new text begin plate is new text end lost,
stolen, or destroyed, the applicant may apply and must be issued new text begin a new text end duplicate license deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin
plate new text end bearing the same combination of letters and numbers and the same design as (1) the
former personalized deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or personalized deleted text begin special veterans plates deleted text end new text begin veteran's special
plate new text end under section 168.123 upon the payment of the fee required by section 168.29 or
(2) the former personalized deleted text begin special veterans plates deleted text end new text begin veteran's special plate new text end issued under
section 168.124 or 168.125, without charge.

Sec. 26.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.12, subdivision 2b, is amended to read:

Subd. 2b.

deleted text begin Firefighters; special plates deleted text end new text begin Firefighter's special plate new text end , rules.

(a)
The commissioner shall issue new text begin a new text end special deleted text begin plates, or a single license deleted text end plate deleted text begin in the case of a
motorcycle plate, deleted text end to any applicant who:

(1) is a member of a fire department receiving state aid under chapter 69, has a
letter from the fire chief, and is an owner of a passenger automobile, a truck with a
manufacturer's nominal rated capacity of one ton and resembling a pickup truck, or
a motorcycle;

(2) pays a fee of $10 and any other fees required by this chapter;

(3) pays the registration tax required by this chapter for the motor vehicle; and

(4) complies with this chapter and rules governing the registration of motor vehicles
and licensing of drivers.

(b) In lieu of the identification required under subdivision 1, the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin
plate new text end must bear an emblem of a Maltese Cross together with any numbers or characters
prescribed by the commissioner.

(c) new text begin A new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued under this subdivision may only be used during the
period that the owner of the motor vehicle is a member of a fire department as specified in
this subdivision. When the individual to whom the special deleted text begin plates were deleted text end new text begin plate was new text end issued
is no longer a member of a fire department or when the motor vehicle ownership is
transferred, the owner shall remove the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end from the motor vehicle. If the
commissioner receives written notification that an individual is no longer qualified for
deleted text begin these deleted text end new text begin the new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , the commissioner shall invalidate the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end and notify
the individual of this action. The individual may retain the plate only upon demonstrating
compliance with the qualifications of this subdivision. Upon removal or invalidation
of the special deleted text begin plates, or special motorcycle deleted text end plate, either the owner or purchaser of the
motor vehicle shall obtain new text begin a new text end regular deleted text begin plates or a regular motorcycle deleted text end plate for the proper
registration classification for the motor vehicle.

(d) A special motorcycle license plate issued under this subdivision must be the
same size as a standard motorcycle license plate.

(e) Upon payment of a fee of $5, deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a plate new text end issued under this subdivision for a
passenger automobile or truck may be transferred to another passenger automobile or
truck owned or jointly owned by the person to whom the deleted text begin plates were deleted text end new text begin plate was new text end issued.
On payment of a fee of $5, a plate issued under this subdivision for a motorcycle may
be transferred to another motorcycle owned or jointly owned by the person to whom
the plate was issued.

(f) The commissioner may adopt rules under the Administrative Procedure Act,
sections 14.001 to 14.69, to govern the issuance and use of the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end
authorized in this subdivision.

Sec. 27.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.12, subdivision 2c, is amended to read:

Subd. 2c.

National Guard deleted text begin ; deleted text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , rules.

(a) The commissioner shall
issue new text begin a new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end to any applicant who:

(1) is a regularly enlisted, commissioned, or retired member of the Minnesota
National Guard, other than an inactive member who is not a retired member, and is an
owner of a passenger automobile;

(2) pays a fee of $10 and any other fees required by this chapter;

(3) pays the registration tax required by this chapter; and

(4) complies with this chapter and rules governing the registration of motor vehicles
and licensing of drivers.

(b) The adjutant general shall design the emblem for these special plates subject to
the approval of the commissioner.

(c) new text begin A new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued under this subdivision may only be used during the
period that the owner of the motor vehicle is an active or retired member of the Minnesota
National Guard as specified in this subdivision. When the individual to whom the special
deleted text begin plates were deleted text end new text begin plate was new text end issued is no longer an active or retired member of the Minnesota
National Guard, the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end must be removed from the vehicle by the owner. If
the commissioner receives written notification that an individual is no longer qualified for
these special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , the commissioner shall invalidate the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end and notify the
individual of this action. The individual may retain the plate only upon demonstrating
compliance with the qualifications of this subdivision. Upon removal or invalidation of
the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , either the owner or purchaser of the motor vehicle shall obtain
new text begin a new text end regular deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end for the motor vehicle.

(d) While the person is an active or retired member of the Minnesota National
Guard, deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a plate new text end issued pursuant to this subdivision may be transferred to another
motor vehicle owned by that individual upon payment of a fee of $5.

(e) For purposes of this subdivision, "retired member" means an individual placed on
the roll of retired officers or roll of retired enlisted members in the Office of the Adjutant
General under section 192.18 and who is not deceased.

(f) The commissioner may adopt rules under the Administrative Procedure Act to
govern the issuance and use of the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end authorized by this subdivision.

Sec. 28.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.12, subdivision 2d, is amended to read:

Subd. 2d.

Ready Reserve deleted text begin ; deleted text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , rules.

(a) The commissioner shall
issue new text begin a new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end to an applicant who:

(1) is not eligible for new text begin a new text end special National Guard deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end under subdivision 2c, is a
member of the United States Armed Forces Ready Reserve as described in United States
Code, title 10, section 10142 or 10143, or a retired reserve as described in United States
Code, title 10, section 10154, and is an owner of a passenger automobile;

(2) pays a fee of $10 and any other fees required by this chapter;

(3) pays the registration tax required by this chapter; and

(4) complies with this chapter and rules governing the registration of motor vehicles
and licensing of drivers.

(b) The commissioner of veterans affairs shall design the emblem for these special
plates subject to the approval of the commissioner.

(c) new text begin A new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued under this subdivision may only be used during the
period that the owner of the motor vehicle is a member of the Ready Reserve. When the
owner is no longer a member, the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end must be removed from the motor
vehicle by the owner. If the commissioner receives written notification that an individual
is no longer qualified for deleted text begin these deleted text end new text begin the new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , the commissioner shall invalidate
the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end and notify the individual of this action. The individual may retain the
plate only upon demonstrating compliance with the qualifications of this subdivision. On
removal or invalidation of the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , either the owner or purchaser of the
motor vehicle shall obtain new text begin a new text end regular deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end for the motor vehicle. While the owner
is a member of the Ready Reserve, deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a plate new text end issued under this subdivision may be
transferred to another motor vehicle owned by that individual on paying a fee of $5.

(d) The commissioner may adopt rules under the Administrative Procedure Act to
govern the issuance and use of the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end authorized by this subdivision.

Sec. 29.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.12, subdivision 2e, is amended to read:

Subd. 2e.

Volunteer ambulance deleted text begin attendants; deleted text end new text begin attendant new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

(a)
The commissioner shall issue new text begin a new text end special license deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end to an applicant who:

(1) is a volunteer ambulance attendant as defined in section 144E.001, subdivision
15, and owns a motor vehicle taxed as a passenger automobile;

(2) pays the registration tax required by this chapter for the motor vehicle;

(3) pays a fee of $10 and any other fees required by this chapter; and

(4) complies with this chapter and rules governing the registration of motor vehicles
and licensing of drivers.

(b) An individual may use new text begin the new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued under this subdivision
only during the period that the individual is a volunteer ambulance attendant. When the
individual to whom the special deleted text begin plates were deleted text end new text begin plate was new text end issued ceases to be a volunteer
ambulance attendant, the individual shall remove each deleted text begin set of special plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued. If
the commissioner receives written notification that an individual is no longer qualified for
deleted text begin these deleted text end new text begin this new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , the commissioner shall invalidate the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end and notify
the individual of this action. The individual may retain the plate only upon demonstrating
compliance with the qualifications of this subdivision. When ownership of the motor
vehicle is transferred, the individual shall remove the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end from that motor
vehicle. On removal or invalidation of the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , the owner or purchaser of
the motor vehicle shall obtain new text begin a new text end regular deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end for the motor vehicle. new text begin A new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin
plate new text end issued under this subdivision may be transferred to another motor vehicle owned by
the volunteer ambulance attendant on payment of a fee of $5.

(c) The commissioner may adopt rules governing the design, issuance, and sale of
the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end authorized by this subdivision.

Sec. 30.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.12, subdivision 2f, is amended to read:

Subd. 2f.

Original license deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

(a) On application of the owner and in lieu
of issuing deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a plate new text end under subdivision 1 to a motor vehicle registered and taxed as
a passenger automobile, the commissioner may assign to the motor vehicle new text begin an new text end original
Minnesota registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued in the same year as the model year of the motor
vehicle, if (1) the original deleted text begin plates are deleted text end new text begin plate is new text end at least 20 years old, (2) the owner of the
motor vehicle has the original deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end in possession at the time of the application, and
(3) the owner provides the plate number to the commissioner.

(b) deleted text begin Plates deleted text end new text begin A plate new text end displayed under this subdivision, including deleted text begin stickers deleted text end new text begin any sticker new text end
applied to the plates, must be clearly legible and must be displayed on the motor vehicle.

(c) The commissioner shall not assign the registration number on the original deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin
plate new text end to the motor vehicle if the commissioner determines that the number on the original
plate is identical to the number on any plate in the current or reserved numbering system
used by the commissioner.

(d) Despite subdivision 1, an original plate whose number has been assigned under
this subdivision may be displayed for as long as the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , including deleted text begin tabs and
stickers deleted text end new text begin any tab or sticker new text end on the deleted text begin plates, are deleted text end new text begin plate, is new text end clearly legible and the number is not
subsequently used by the commissioner as a plate number in a registration numbering
system.

(e) Despite subdivision 1, new text begin an new text end original deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end assigned under this subdivision
need not bear a tab or sticker to indicate the month or year of registration if the motor
vehicle carries the registration certificate issued under section 168.11 at all times when the
motor vehicle is operated on the public highways.

(f) The commissioner may charge a fee for receiving an application and assigning
new text begin an new text end original plate deleted text begin numbers deleted text end new text begin number new text end .

Sec. 31.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.123, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

General requirements; fees.

(a) On payment of a fee of $10 for
deleted text begin each set of two plates, or for deleted text end a single plate deleted text begin in the case of a motorcycle plate deleted text end , payment of
the registration tax required by law, and compliance with other applicable laws relating to
vehicle registration and licensing, as applicable, the commissioner shall issue:

(1) deleted text begin special deleted text end new text begin a new text end veteran's deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin special plate new text end to an applicant who served in the active
military service in a branch of the armed forces of the United States or of a nation or
society allied with the United States in conducting a foreign war, was discharged under
honorable conditions, and is a registered owner of a passenger automobile, recreational
motor vehicle, or truck resembling a pickup truck and having a manufacturer's nominal
rated capacity of one ton, but which is not a commercial motor vehicle as defined in
section 169.011, subdivision 16; or

(2) a veteran's special motorcycle plate as described in subdivision 2, paragraph (a),
(f), (h), or (i), or another special plate designed by the commissioner to an applicant who
is a registered owner of a motorcycle and meets the criteria listed in this paragraph and in
subdivision 2, paragraph (a), (f), (h), or (i). deleted text begin Plates deleted text end new text begin A plate new text end issued under this clause must be
the same size as new text begin a new text end regular motorcycle deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end . new text begin A new text end special motorcycle deleted text begin license plates deleted text end new text begin
plate new text end issued under this clause deleted text begin are deleted text end new text begin is new text end not subject to section 168.1293.

(b) The additional fee of $10 is payable for each deleted text begin set of deleted text end veteran's deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , is
payable only when the deleted text begin plates are deleted text end new text begin plate is new text end issued, and is not payable in a year in which
deleted text begin stickers are deleted text end new text begin a sticker is new text end issued instead of deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a plate new text end .

(c) The veteran must have a certified copy of the veteran's discharge papers,
indicating character of discharge, at the time of application. If an applicant served in the
active military service in a branch of the armed forces of a nation or society allied with the
United States in conducting a foreign war and is unable to obtain a record of that service
and discharge status, the commissioner of veterans affairs may certify the applicant as
qualified for the veterans' deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end provided under this section.

(d) For license plates issued for one-ton trucks described in paragraph (a), clause
(1), the commissioner shall collect a surcharge of $5 on each $10 fee collected under
paragraph (a). The surcharge must be deposited in the vehicle services operating account
in the special revenue fund.

Sec. 32.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.123, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Plates transfer.

(a) On payment of a fee of $5, deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a plate new text end issued
under subdivision 1, paragraph (a), clause (1), may be transferred to another passenger
automobile or recreational motor vehicle, or one-ton truck described in subdivision 1,
paragraph (a), clause (1), registered to the individual to whom the deleted text begin plates were deleted text end new text begin plate was new text end
issued.

(b) On payment of a fee of $5, a plate issued under subdivision 1, paragraph (a),
clause (2), may be transferred to another motorcycle registered to the individual to whom
the plate was issued.

Sec. 33.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.1235, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

General requirements; fees.

(a) The commissioner shall issue a
special plate emblem for each plate to an applicant who:

(1) is a member of a congressionally chartered veterans service organization and
is a registered owner of a passenger automobile, pickup truck, van, or self-propelled
recreational vehicle;

(2) pays the registration tax required by law;

(3) pays a fee of $10 for each deleted text begin set of two plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , and any other fees required
by this chapter; and

(4) complies with this chapter and rules governing the registration of motor vehicles
and licensing of drivers.

(b) The additional fee of $10 is payable at the time of initial application for the
special plate emblem and when the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end must be replaced or renewed. An applicant
must not be issued more than two deleted text begin sets of deleted text end special plate emblems for motor vehicles listed
in paragraph (a) and registered to the applicant.

(c) The applicant must present a valid card indicating membership in the American
Legion or Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Sec. 34.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.1235, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Plate emblem transfer.

Despite section 168.12 or other law to the contrary,
on payment of a fee of $5, the veterans service organization special plate deleted text begin emblems deleted text end new text begin emblem new text end
issued under subdivision 1, may be transferred by the owner to deleted text begin other plates deleted text end new text begin another plate new text end
on a passenger automobile, pickup truck, van, or self-propelled recreational vehicle
registered to the person to whom the deleted text begin emblems were deleted text end new text begin emblem was new text end issued.

Sec. 35.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.124, is amended to read:

168.124 SPECIAL deleted text begin PLATES deleted text end new text begin PLATE new text end FOR MEDAL OF HONOR deleted text begin RECIPIENTS deleted text end new text begin
RECIPIENT new text end .

Subdivision 1.

Issuance and design.

(a) The commissioner shall issue new text begin a new text end special
deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end bearing the inscription "MEDAL OF HONOR" to an applicant who:

(1) is a recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor;

(2) is a registered owner of a passenger automobile, motorcycle, or recreational
motor vehicle; and

(3) complies with this chapter and rules governing the registration of motor vehicles
and licensing of drivers.

(b) The special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end must be of a design and size determined by the
commissioner. Only one deleted text begin set of plates, or a single deleted text end plate deleted text begin in the case of a motorcycle, deleted text end bearing
the inscription "MEDAL OF HONOR" may be issued for each qualified applicant.

Subd. 2.

Application.

Application for issuance of deleted text begin these plates deleted text end new text begin the plate new text end may be
made only at the time of renewal or first application for registration.

Subd. 3.

No fee.

The commissioner shall issue a deleted text begin set of deleted text end Medal of Honor deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end
to new text begin a new text end qualified deleted text begin applicants deleted text end new text begin applicant new text end free of charge and the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end must be replaced
without charge if deleted text begin they become deleted text end new text begin it becomes new text end damaged. In addition, no fee may be charged
for a subsequent year when deleted text begin stickers are deleted text end new text begin a sticker is new text end issued for a motor vehicle listed in
subdivision 1 on which the Medal of Honor deleted text begin plates are deleted text end new text begin plate is new text end placed. The motor vehicle
must be for personal use, not commercial purposes.

Subd. 4.

Transfer.

Despite deleted text begin the provisions of deleted text end section 168.12, subdivision 1, new text begin a
new text end Medal of Honor deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued under this section may be transferred to another
personal motor vehicle registered to the Medal of Honor recipient upon notification to
the commissioner.

Sec. 36.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.125, is amended to read:

168.125 SPECIAL deleted text begin PLATES deleted text end new text begin PLATE new text end FOR FORMER deleted text begin PRISONERS deleted text end new text begin PRISONER new text end
OF WAR.

Subdivision 1.

Issuance and design.

(a) The commissioner shall issue new text begin a new text end special
deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end bearing the inscription "EX-POW" to any applicant who:

(1) is both a former prisoner of war and a registered owner of a passenger
automobile, motorcycle, or recreational motor vehicle; and

(2) complies with this chapter and rules governing the registration of motor vehicles
and licensing of drivers.

(b) The special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end must be of a design and size to be determined by the
commissioner. Only one deleted text begin set of plates, or a single deleted text end plate deleted text begin in the case of a motorcycle, deleted text end bearing
the "EX-POW" inscription may be issued for each qualified applicant.

Subd. 1a.

Application.

Application for issuance of deleted text begin these plates deleted text end new text begin the plate new text end must be
made at the time of renewal or first application for registration. The application must
include a certification by the commissioner of veterans affairs that the applicant was a
member of the military forces of the United States who was captured, separated, and
incarcerated by an enemy of the United States during a period of armed conflict.

Subd. 1b.

No fee.

The commissioner shall issue deleted text begin a set of deleted text end new text begin an new text end EX-POW deleted text begin plates, or a
single deleted text end plate deleted text begin for a motorcycle, deleted text end to new text begin a new text end qualified deleted text begin applicants deleted text end new text begin applicant new text end , free of charge, and shall
replace deleted text begin them deleted text end new text begin it new text end without charge if deleted text begin they become deleted text end new text begin it becomes new text end damaged. In addition, no fee
may be charged for a subsequent year when deleted text begin stickers are deleted text end new text begin a sticker is new text end issued for that motor
vehicle on which the EX-POW deleted text begin plates are deleted text end new text begin plate is new text end placed.

Subd. 1c.

deleted text begin Plates deleted text end new text begin Plate new text end transfer.

Despite deleted text begin the provisions of deleted text end section 168.12,
subdivision 1, the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued under this section may be transferred to
another motor vehicle registered to the former prisoner of war upon notification to the
commissioner.

Subd. 1d.

Surviving spouse.

Upon the death of a former prisoner of war, the
commissioner shall continue to issue free of charge, upon renewal, the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end
to a motor vehicle owned by the surviving spouse of the former prisoner of war. new text begin A new text end special deleted text begin
plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued to a surviving spouse may be transferred to another motor vehicle
registered to the surviving spouse as provided in subdivision 1c. No fee may be charged
for new text begin a new text end replacement deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued to a surviving spouse or for deleted text begin stickers deleted text end new text begin any sticker new text end
issued for the motor vehicle on which the special "EX-POW" deleted text begin plates are deleted text end new text begin plate is new text end placed. A
surviving spouse is not exempt from the motor vehicle registration tax.

Subd. 2.

deleted text begin Plates; deleted text end EX-POW and disability new text begin plate and new text end emblems.

The commissioner
shall issue new text begin a new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end bearing both the "EX-POW" and disability deleted text begin emblem deleted text end new text begin
emblems new text end to any applicant who is entitled to the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end provided under this
section and who is also entitled to new text begin a new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end for the physically disabled under
section 168.021 upon compliance with the provisions of both sections. The deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end
must be of a design and size determined by the commissioner.

Subd. 3.

Rules; commissioner of public safety.

The commissioner of public safety
may adopt by rule, in accordance with chapter 14, the procedures for issuance or transfer
of the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end authorized under this section.

Subd. 4.

Rules; commissioner of veterans affairs.

The commissioner of veterans
affairs shall establish the procedure for obtaining the certification of former prisoner
of war status.

Subd. 5.

Savings provision.

Nothing in this section alters the exemption for
disabled war veterans provided for in section 168.031.

Sec. 37.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.1251, is amended to read:

168.1251 DISABLED AMERICAN VETERAN deleted text begin PLATES deleted text end new text begin PLATE new text end .

Subdivision 1.

Issuance and design.

The commissioner shall issue new text begin a new text end special
license deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end bearing the inscription "DISABLED AMERICAN VETERAN" to
an applicant who is certified in writing by the United States Department of Veterans
Affairs or the state commissioner of veterans affairs as having a permanent and total
service-connected disability, who complies with all laws relating to the registration and
licensing of motor vehicles and drivers, and who pays a fee of $10 for each deleted text begin set of license
plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end applied for. The special license deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end must be of a design and size
determined by the commissioner.

Subd. 2.

Application.

Application for issuance of deleted text begin these plates deleted text end new text begin the plate new text end may be
made only at the time of renewal or first application for registration.

Subd. 3.

Transfer.

On payment of a fee of $5, new text begin a new text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued under
this section may be transferred to another personal motor vehicle owned or jointly owned
by the disabled veteran upon notification to the commissioner.

Subd. 4.

Surcharge.

For each deleted text begin set of deleted text end special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued under this section, the
commissioner shall collect a surcharge of $5 on each $10 fee collected under subdivision 1.

Subd. 5.

Motor vehicle; special definition.

For purposes of this section, "motor
vehicle" means a vehicle for personal use, not used for commercial purposes, and may
include a passenger automobile, van, pickup truck, motorcycle, or recreational vehicle.

Subd. 6.

Fees credited.

Fees, including surcharges, collected under this section
must be credited to the vehicle services operating account in the special revenue fund.

Sec. 38.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.1255, is amended to read:

168.1255 "PROUD TO BE A VETERAN" PLATE.

Subdivision 1.

General requirements and procedures.

The commissioner shall
issue new text begin a new text end special veteran contribution deleted text begin plates or a single motorcycle deleted text end plate to an applicant who:

(1) is a veteran, as defined in section 197.447;

(2) is a registered owner of a passenger automobile or motorcycle;

(3) pays a fee of $10 to cover the costs of handling and manufacturing the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin
plate new text end ;

(4) pays the registration tax required under section 168.013;

(5) pays the fees required under this chapter;

(6) pays an additional onetime World War II memorial contribution of $30, which
the department shall retain until all start-up costs associated with the development and
issuing of the deleted text begin plates have deleted text end new text begin plate has new text end been recovered, after which the commissioner shall
deposit contributions in the World War II donation match account; and

(7) complies with this chapter and rules governing the registration of motor vehicles
and licensing of drivers.

Subd. 1a.

Motorcycle plate.

A motorcycle plate issued under this section must be
the same size as a regular motorcycle plate.

Subd. 2.

Design.

The commissioner of veterans affairs shall design an emblem for
the special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , subject to the approval of the commissioner of public safety, that
satisfies the requirements in this subdivision:

(1) the special veteran contribution deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end must bear the inscription "PROUD
TO BE A VETERAN" on the bottom of the plate; and

(2) the flag of the United States of America must appear on the left side of the plate
just preceding the first letter or numeral of the special plate number.

Subd. 3.

Plate transfers.

Despite section 168.12, subdivision 1, on payment of a
transfer fee of $5, deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a plate new text end issued under this section may be transferred to another
passenger automobile registered to the individual to whom the veteran contribution
deleted text begin plates were deleted text end new text begin plate was new text end issued, or a deleted text begin single deleted text end motorcycle plate may be transferred to another
motorcycle registered to the individual to whom the plate was issued.

Subd. 4.

Fees credited.

Fees collected under this section do not include the
contributions collected for the World War II memorial donation match account.

Subd. 5.

Record.

The commissioner shall maintain a record of the number of
special plates issued under this section.

Subd. 6.

World War II memorial donation match account.

Money remaining
in the World War II memorial donation match account after the state share of the
construction costs of the World War II memorial has been paid in full is appropriated to the
commissioner of veterans affairs for services and programs for veterans and their families.

Sec. 39.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.126, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

The registrar shall issue new text begin a new text end special deleted text begin license plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end
for a commuter van as defined in section 221.012, subdivision 9, upon the applicant's
compliance with the laws of Minnesota relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and drivers.

Sec. 40.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.127, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Renewal of fleet registration.

On the renewal of a fleet registration the
registrant shall pay full licensing fees for every vehicle registered in the preceding year
unless the vehicle has been properly deleted from the fleet. In order to delete a vehicle
from a fleet, the fleet registrant must surrender to the commissioner the registration card
and deleted text begin license plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end . The registrar may authorize alternative methods of deleting
vehicles from a fleet, including destruction of the deleted text begin license deleted text end plates and registration cards. If
the card or deleted text begin license plates are deleted text end new text begin plate is new text end lost or stolen, the fleet registrant shall submit a sworn
statement stating the circumstances for the inability to surrender the card, deleted text begin stickers deleted text end new text begin sticker new text end ,
and deleted text begin license plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end . The commissioner shall assess a penalty of 20 percent of the total
tax due on the fleet against the fleet registrant who fails to renew the licenses issued under
this section or fails to report the removal of vehicles from the fleet within 30 days. The
penalty must be paid within 30 days after it is assessed.

Sec. 41.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.128, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

deleted text begin Plates deleted text end new text begin Plate new text end .

(a) A person who operates a limousine for other than personal
use shall register the motor vehicle as provided in this section.

(b) A person who operates a limousine for personal use may apply. The
commissioner shall issue new text begin a new text end limousine deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end to the registered owner of a limousine
who:

(1) certifies that an insurance policy under section 65B.135 in an aggregate amount
of $300,000 per accident is in effect for the entire period of the registration;

(2) provides the commissioner with proof that the passenger automobile license tax
and a $10 fee have been paid for each limousine receiving new text begin a new text end limousine deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end ; and

(3) complies with this chapter and rules governing the registration of motor vehicles
and licensing of drivers.

(c) The limousine deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end must be designed to specifically identify the vehicle as
a limousine and must be clearly marked with the letters "LM." new text begin A new text end limousine deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end
may not be transferred upon sale of the limousine, but may be transferred to another
limousine owned by the same person upon notifying the commissioner and paying a
$5 transfer fee.

Sec. 42.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.129, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

General requirements and procedures.

The commissioner shall
issue new text begin a new text end special collegiate deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end to an applicant who:

(1) is a registered owner of a passenger automobile;

(2) pays a fee as specified in section 168.12, subdivision 5, to cover the costs of
handling and manufacturing the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end ;

(3) pays the registration tax required under section 168.013;

(4) pays the fees required under this chapter;

(5) contributes at least $25 annually to the scholarship account established in
subdivision 6; and

(6) complies with this chapter and rules governing registration of motor vehicles
and licensing of drivers.

Sec. 43.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.129, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

deleted text begin Plates deleted text end new text begin Plate new text end transfer.

Despite section 168.12, subdivision 1, on payment
of a transfer fee of $5, deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a plate new text end issued under this section may be transferred to
another passenger automobile registered to the individual to whom the special collegiate
deleted text begin plates were deleted text end new text begin plate was new text end issued.

Sec. 44.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.1291, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Fees.

Despite section 168.12, subdivisions 2b to 2e; 168.123; or 168.129,
the commissioner shall charge a fee of $10 for each deleted text begin set of plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued under this
section.

Sec. 45.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.1293, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Discontinuance of plate.

(a) The commissioner shall discontinue the
issuance or renewal of any special plate authorized by sections 168.12, subdivisions 2b
and 2e; 168.1235; and 168.129, if (1) fewer than 1,000 deleted text begin sets of those deleted text end plates are currently
registered at the end of the first six years during which the plates are available, or (2)
fewer than 1,000 deleted text begin sets of those deleted text end plates are currently registered at the end of any subsequent
two-year period following the first six years of availability.

(b) The commissioner shall discontinue the issuance or renewal of any special
plate authorized by sections 168.12, subdivisions 2b and 2e; 168.1235; and 168.129, and
distribution of any contributions resulting from that plate, if the commissioner determines
that (1) the fund or requester receiving the contributions no longer exists, (2) the requester
has stopped providing services that are authorized to be funded from the contribution
proceeds, (3) the requester has requested discontinuance, or (4) contributions have been
used in violation of subdivision 6.

(c) Nothing in this subdivision applies to plates issued under section 168.123,
168.124, 168.125, 168.1251, or 168.1255.

Sec. 46.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.1296, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

General requirements and procedures.

(a) The commissioner shall
issue new text begin a new text end critical habitat deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end to an applicant who:

(1) is a registered owner of a passenger automobile or recreational vehicle;

(2) pays a fee of $10 to cover the costs of handling and manufacturing the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin
plate new text end ;

(3) pays the registration tax required under section 168.013;

(4) pays the fees required under this chapter;

(5) contributes a minimum of $30 annually to the Minnesota critical habitat private
sector matching account established in section 84.943; and

(6) complies with this chapter and rules governing registration of motor vehicles
and licensing of drivers.

(b) The critical habitat plate application must indicate that the annual contribution
specified under paragraph (a), clause (5), is a minimum contribution to receive the plate
and that the applicant may make an additional contribution to the account.

(c) Owners of recreational vehicles under paragraph (a), clause (1), are eligible
only for special critical habitat license plates for which the designs are selected under
subdivision 2, on or after January 1, 2006.

(d) Special critical habitat license plates, the designs for which are selected under
subdivision 2, on or after January 1, 2006, may be personalized according to section
168.12, subdivision 2a.

Sec. 47.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.1296, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Plate transfers.

Notwithstanding section 168.12, subdivision 1, on
payment of a transfer fee of $5, deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin a plate new text end issued under this section may be transferred
to another passenger automobile registered to the person to whom the deleted text begin plates were deleted text end new text begin plate
was new text end issued.

Sec. 48.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.1297, is amended to read:

168.1297 SPECIAL "ROTARY MEMBER" deleted text begin PLATES deleted text end new text begin PLATE new text end .

Subdivision 1.

General requirements and procedures.

The commissioner shall
issue new text begin a new text end special "Rotary member" deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end to an applicant who:

(1) is a registered owner of a passenger automobile;

(2) pays a fee of $10 to cover the costs of handling and manufacturing the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin
plate new text end ;

(3) pays the registration tax required under section 168.013;

(4) pays the fees required under this chapter;

(5) submits proof to the commissioner that the applicant is a member of Rotary
International; and

(6) complies with this chapter and rules governing registration of motor vehicles
and licensing of drivers.

Subd. 2.

Design.

A special plate under this section consists of a plate as described
in section 168.1291 with a unique emblem that is the recognized emblem of Rotary
International.

Subd. 3.

Compliance with other law.

The commissioner shall take no action
under this section unless the commissioner determines that Rotary International, or one or
more districts of Rotary International, has complied with section 168.1293, subdivision
2, paragraph (a). Issuance and renewal of plates under this section are subject to section
168.1293, subdivisions 3 to 6.

Sec. 49.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.1298, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

General requirements and procedures.

(a) The commissioner shall
issue new text begin a new text end special "Support Our Troops" license deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end to an applicant who:

(1) is an owner of a passenger automobile, one-ton pickup truck, recreational
vehicle, or motorcycle;

(2) pays a fee of $10 to cover the costs of handling and manufacturing the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin
plate new text end ;

(3) pays the registration tax required under section 168.013;

(4) pays the fees required under this chapter;

(5) contributes a minimum of $30 annually to the Minnesota "Support Our Troops"
account established in section 190.19; and

(6) complies with laws and rules governing registration and licensing of vehicles
and drivers.

(b) The license application under this section must indicate that the annual
contribution specified under paragraph (a), clause (5), is a minimum contribution to receive
the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end and that the applicant may make an additional contribution to the account.

Sec. 50.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.13, is amended to read:

168.13 PROOF OF OWNERSHIP.

(a) The registrar shall not approve an application and shall not issue new text begin a new text end number deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin
plate new text end for any motor vehicle, unless and until the title certificate issued under chapter 168A,
or registration certificate if not titled, is delivered to the registrar. The registrar must be
satisfied from the records that all taxes and fees due have been paid and that endorsements
upon the certificate are in writing and have been signed by the seller and purchaser.

(b) The registrar shall not register and shall not issue new text begin a new text end number deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end for a
motor vehicle brought into Minnesota from another state until:

(1) a registration certificate or other evidence of title as may reasonably be required
from the registrant within that state is surrendered to the registrar in the same manner as
certificates of this state; or in lieu thereof

(2) the registrar receives evidence of the chain of ownership as will assure the
payment of the proper tax so long as the motor vehicle is in the state.

Sec. 51.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.15, is amended to read:

168.15 RIGHTS AS TO REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE AND deleted text begin PLATES deleted text end new text begin
PLATE new text end .

Subdivision 1.

Transfer of ownership.

(a) Upon the transfer of ownership,
destruction, theft, dismantling, or permanent removal by the owner from this state of any
vehicle registered in accordance with this chapter, the right of the owner of the vehicle to
use the registration certificate and deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end assigned to the vehicle expires.

(b) When the ownership of a vehicle is transferred to another person required to
register the vehicle in this state, the transferor shall assign the registration tax paid to the
credit of the transferee unless the registration deleted text begin stickers are deleted text end new text begin sticker is new text end surrendered to the
commissioner before the first day of the new registration period.

(c) When seeking to become the owner by gift, trade, or purchase of any vehicle for
which a registration certificate has been issued under this chapter, a person shall join with
the registered owner in transmitting with the application for transfer of ownership, the
registration certificate, with the assignment and notice of sale duly executed.

(d) In case of loss of the title or certificate of registration of a vehicle not subject to
section 325E.15, the person shall make application to the commissioner with proof of loss
of the title as specified in section 168A.09 and assign a notice of sale of the vehicle on
the application for title as specified in section 168A.04.

(e) Upon the transfer of any vehicle by a manufacturer or dealer, for use within
the state, whether by sale, lease, or otherwise, the transferor shall, within ten days after
the transfer, file with the commissioner (1) a notice containing the date of transfer, a
description of the vehicle, and the transferee's name and residence address in the state or
if not a natural person then the transferee's business and mailing address, and (2) the
transferee's application for registration.

Sec. 52.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.16, is amended to read:

168.16 REGISTRATION TAX REFUND; APPROPRIATION.

(a) After the registration tax upon any vehicle has been paid for any registration
period, refund must be made for errors made in computing the registration tax or fees and
for the error on the part of an owner who may in error have registered a vehicle that was
not before, nor at the time of registration, nor at any time thereafter during the preceding
registration period, subject to registration tax in this state as provided by section 168.012.

(b) Unless otherwise provided in this chapter, a claim for a refund of an overpayment
of registration tax must be filed within 3-1/2 years from the date of payment.

(c) The former registered owner of a transferred vehicle, by an assignment in writing
endorsed upon the registration certificate and delivered to the commissioner within the
time provided in this subdivision, shall assign, except for vehicles registered under
section 168.187, to the new owner the right to have the tax paid by the former registered
owner accredited to the new owner who duly registers the vehicle unless the registration
deleted text begin stickers are deleted text end new text begin sticker is new text end surrendered to the commissioner before the first day of the new
registration period.

(d) Any owner is entitled to a refund of the unused portion of the registration tax paid
on the owner's vehicle upon filing a claim, verified by the commissioner, if the vehicle is:

(1) declared by an insurance company to be permanently destroyed due to accident,
fire, or an Act of God as defined in section 115B.02; or

(2) sold to the federal government, the state, or a political subdivision of the state.

(e) The refund must be equal to the sum of the remaining registration tax attributable
for the registration period after the month in which the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end and certificate of
registration or title were returned to the commissioner.

(f) There is hereby appropriated to the persons entitled to a refund, from the fund
or account in the state treasury to which the money was credited, an amount sufficient
to make the refund and payment.

Sec. 53.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.27, subdivision 16, is amended to read:

Subd. 16.

Dealer deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end : distinguishing number, fee, tax, use.

(a) The
registrar shall issue to every motor vehicle dealer, upon a request from the motor vehicle
dealer licensed as provided in subdivision 2 or 3, one or more plates displaying a general
distinguishing number. This subdivision does not apply to a scrap metal processor, a used
vehicle parts dealer, or a vehicle salvage pool. The fee for each of the first four plates is
$75 per registration year, of which $60 must be paid to the registrar and the remaining $15
is payable as sales tax on motor vehicles under section 297B.035. For each additional
plate, the dealer shall pay the registrar a fee of $25 and a sales tax on motor vehicles of
$15 per registration year. The registrar shall deposit the tax in the state treasury to be
credited as provided in section 297B.09. Motor vehicles, new or used, owned by the motor
vehicle dealership and bearing the number plate, except vehicles leased to the user who is
not an employee of the dealer during the term of the lease, held for hire, or customarily
used by the dealer as a tow truck, service truck, or parts vehicle, may be driven upon the
streets and highways of this state:

(1) by the motor vehicle dealer or dealer's spouse, or any full-time employee of the
motor vehicle dealer for either private or business purposes;

(2) by a part-time employee when the use is directly related to a particular business
transaction of the dealer;

(3) for demonstration purposes by any prospective buyer for a period of 48 hours or
in the case of a truck, truck-tractor, or semitrailer, for a period of seven days; or

(4) in a promotional event that lasts no longer than four days in which at least three
motor vehicles are involved.

(b) A new or used motor vehicle sold by the motor vehicle dealer and bearing the
motor vehicle dealer's number plate may be driven upon the public streets and highways
for a period of 72 hours by the buyer for either of the following purposes: (1) removing the
vehicle from this state for registration in another state, or (2) permitting the buyer to use
the motor vehicle before the buyer receives new text begin a new text end number deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end pursuant to registration.
Use of a motor vehicle by the buyer under clause (2) before the buyer receives new text begin a new text end number
deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end pursuant to registration constitutes a use of the public streets or highways for
the purpose of the time requirements for registration of motor vehicles.

Sec. 54.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.27, subdivision 28, is amended to read:

Subd. 28.

Distribution of plates and stickers.

The commissioner may distribute
registration plates and stickers to be held and issued by new and used motor vehicle
dealers. A dealer may issue new text begin a new text end registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end and deleted text begin stickers deleted text end new text begin sticker new text end only in
conjunction with and at the time of the sale of a vehicle by the dealer. A dealer permitted
to hold and issue registration plates and stickers must be equipped with electronic
transmission technology and trained in its use. Before receiving registration plates
and stickers under this subdivision, a dealer must adopt and implement security and
record-keeping requirements satisfactory to the commissioner. The commissioner may
revoke the authority granted under this subdivision for any violation of law or rule
governing the issuance of registration plates and stickers, any violation of the dealer's
security and record-keeping plan, or any other action that in the commissioner's opinion
adversely affects the registration system. The dealer is financially responsible for the cost
and tax value of any unaccounted inventory.

Sec. 55.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.29, is amended to read:

168.29 REPLACEMENT PLATES.

(a) In the event of the defacement, loss or destruction of any number deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or
validation deleted text begin stickers deleted text end new text begin sticker new text end , the registrar, upon receiving and filing a sworn statement of
the vehicle owner, setting forth the circumstances of the defacement, loss, destruction or
theft of the number deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or validation deleted text begin stickers deleted text end new text begin sticker new text end , together with any defaced
deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or deleted text begin stickers deleted text end new text begin sticker new text end and the payment of a fee calculated to cover the cost of
replacement, shall issue a new deleted text begin set of plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or deleted text begin stickers deleted text end new text begin sticker new text end .

(b) The registrar shall then note on the registrar's records the issue of new text begin the new text end new
number deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end and shall proceed in such manner as the registrar may deem advisable
to cancel and call in the original deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end so as to insure against deleted text begin their deleted text end new text begin its new text end use on another
motor vehicle.

(c) Duplicate registration certificates plainly marked as duplicates may be issued in
like cases upon the payment of a $1 fee. Fees collected under this section must be paid
into the state treasury and credited to the highway user tax distribution fund.

Sec. 56.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.301, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Reinstatement fee.

When the commissioner has suspended new text begin the new text end license
deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end on a vehicle because the transferee has failed to file the title certificate within
30 days, the transferee shall pay a $10 fee before the registration is reinstated.

Sec. 57.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.31, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Installments.

If the tax for a vehicle assessed under section 168.013,
subdivision 1c, 1d, 1e, or 1g, amounts to more than $400, the owner may pay the tax by
installments. The owner shall tender with the application for registration one-third of the
annual tax due or $400, whichever is greater, plus any penalties or arrears, plus a fee
of $10. Instead of this fee, the applicant may furnish a bond, bank letter of credit, or
certificate of deposit approved by the registrar of motor vehicles, for the total of the tax
still due. The amount of the bond, letter of credit, or certificate of deposit may include
any penalties assessed. The bond, letter of credit, or certificate of deposit must be for
the benefit of the state for monetary loss caused by failure of the vehicle owner to pay
delinquent license fees and penalties. The remainder of the tax due must be paid in two
equal installments; the due date of the first installment is the first day of the fifth month of
the registration period for which the tax is assessed and the second installment is due on
the first day of the ninth month of the registration period for which the tax is assessed.
When the applicant elects to pay the administrative fee, the registrar shall issue to the
applicant new text begin a new text end validation deleted text begin stickers deleted text end new text begin sticker new text end indicating the expiration date of a registration.
When the applicant elects to furnish a bond, bank letter, or letter of deposit, the registrar
shall issue new text begin a new text end regular validation deleted text begin stickers deleted text end new text begin sticker new text end for the registration year. If an owner of a
vehicle fails to pay an installment on or before its due date, the vehicle must not be used
on the public streets or highways in this state until the installment or installments of the
tax remaining due on the vehicle have been paid in full for the licensed year together with
a penalty at the rate of $1 per day for the remainder of the month in which the balance of
the tax becomes due and $4 a month for each succeeding month or fraction of a month
during which the balance of the tax remains unpaid. Upon the payment of the balance of
the tax and the penalties, the registrar shall issue a registration certificate to the owner of
the vehicle in the manner provided by law. The registrar shall deny installment payment
privileges provided in this subdivision in the subsequent year to any owner on any or all
vehicles of the owner who during the current year fails to pay any installment due within
one month after the due date.

Sec. 58.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.31, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Refund.

For the registration tax paid on any vehicle before the registration
period for which that tax was assessed, the owner of the vehicle who paid the tax is
entitled to full refund if the registration deleted text begin stickers are deleted text end new text begin sticker is new text end surrendered before the first
day of the new registration period.

Sec. 59.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.36, is amended to read:

168.36 UNLAWFUL USE OF UNREGISTERED VEHICLES,
REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE, deleted text begin PLATES deleted text end new text begin PLATE new text end .

Subdivision 1.

Misdemeanor; use of vehicle or certificate.

Any person who shall
use or cause any motor vehicle to be used or operated in violation of the provisions of
this chapter or while a certificate of registration of a motor vehicle issued to the person is
suspended or revoked, or who shall knowingly deliver a motor vehicle to another to be
used or operated in violation of this chapter, or who shall violate any of the provisions
thereof, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

Subd. 2.

Misdemeanor; use of deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or certificate.

Any person who shall
loan or use any number plate or registration certificate upon or in connection with any
motor vehicle except the one for which the same was duly issued, or upon any such motor
vehicle after such certificate or deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , or the right to use the same, have expired, or
any person who shall retain in possession or shall fail to surrender, as herein provided, any
such number plate or registration certificate shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Any person
who manufactures, buys, sells, uses or displays motor vehicle license number plates,
motor vehicle registration certificates, or tax receipts issued by this state or any other state,
territory or district in the United States, without proper authority from such state, territory
or district of the United States, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

Subd. 3.

Misdemeanor; use of altered deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or certificate.

Any person who
shall deface or alter any registration certificate or number plate or retain the same in
possession after it has been defaced or altered shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

Subd. 4.

Officer may seize registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

If a peace officer stops a
motor vehicle and determines, through a check of the motor vehicle registration record
system, that the vehicle is being operated while the certificate of registration for the
vehicle is revoked, the officer may immediately seize the vehicle's registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end
and destroy the deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or return deleted text begin them deleted text end new text begin it new text end to the commissioner of public safety.

Sec. 60.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 168.62, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Special deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or certificate; fee; proceeds to highway user
fund.

At the same time that an owner or operator of intercity buses registers them in
Minnesota and obtains number plates therefor, the owner or operator shall apply for
special identification plates or certificates for the remainder of that fleet of intercity buses.
The registrar of motor vehicles shall design an appropriate plate or identification certificate
for this purpose which shall be issued upon the payment of a fee of $10 covering each
intercity bus so identified. The proceeds of such fees shall be deposited to the credit of the
highway user tax distribution fund. No intercity bus shall at any time be operated in the
state of Minnesota without either new text begin a new text end Minnesota number deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or special identification
deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or deleted text begin certificates deleted text end new text begin certificate new text end issued as herein provided.

Sec. 61.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 169.041, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Towing prohibited.

Unless the vehicle is described in subdivision 4, a
towing authority may not tow a motor vehicle because:

(1) the vehicle has new text begin an new text end expired registration deleted text begin tabs deleted text end new text begin plate new text end that deleted text begin have deleted text end new text begin has new text end been expired for
less than 90 days;

(2) the vehicle is at a parking meter on which the time has expired and the vehicle
has fewer than five unpaid parking tickets.

Sec. 62.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 169.345, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Unauthorized use or noncompliance; cancellation; misdemeanor.

(a) If a peace officer, authorized parking enforcement employee or agent of a statutory
or home rule charter city or town, representative of the Minnesota State Council on
Disability, or an authorized agent of a citizen enforcement program under section 169.346,
subdivision 4, finds that a certificate, permit, or disability plate is being improperly used,
or the applicant is no longer eligible, the officer, municipal employee, representative,
or agent shall report the violation or situation to the commissioner. The commissioner
may cancel the certificate, permit, or disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued under section 168.021
on determining that:

(1) the certificate, permit, or deleted text begin plates were deleted text end new text begin plate was new text end used improperly;

(2) the certificate, permit, or deleted text begin plates were deleted text end new text begin plate was new text end fraudulently obtained;

(3) the certificate, permit, or deleted text begin plates were deleted text end new text begin plate was new text end issued in error;

(4) the person who was issued the certificate, permit, or deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end is deceased;

(5) the person who was issued the certificate, permit, or deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end no longer
maintains a Minnesota address; or

(6) the person or organization has failed to comply with the requirements of this
section.

(b) A person who uses a certificate, permit, or disability deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end in violation of
this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and is subject to a fine of $500.

Sec. 63.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 169.79, is amended to read:

169.79 VEHICLE REGISTRATION; DISPLAYING LICENSE deleted text begin PLATES deleted text end new text begin
PLATE new text end .

Subdivision 1.

Registration required.

No person shall operate, drive, or park a
motor vehicle on any highway unless the vehicle is registered in accordance with the
laws of this state and has deleted text begin the deleted text end new text begin one new text end number deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end or permit confirming that valid
registration or operating authority has been obtained, except as provided in sections
168.10 and 168.12, subdivision 2f, as assigned to it by the commissioner of public safety,
conspicuously displayed deleted text begin thereon deleted text end new text begin at the rear of the vehicle new text end in a manner that the view of deleted text begin any deleted text end new text begin
the new text end plate or permit is not obstructed. A plate issued under section 168.27 or a permit issued
under chapter 168 may be displayed on a vehicle in conjunction with expired registration
whether or not it displays the license plate to which the last registration was issued.

Subd. 2.

Semitrailer.

If the vehicle is a semitrailer, the number plate displayed
must be assigned to the registered owner and correlate to the documentation on file with
the department.

Subd. 3.

Rear display of single plate.

If the vehicle is a motorcycle, motor scooter,
motorized bicycle, motorcycle sidecar, trailer registered at greater than 3,000 pounds
gross vehicle weight (GVW), semitrailer, or vehicle displaying a dealer plate, then one
license plate must be displayed horizontally with the identifying numbers and letters
facing outward from the vehicle and must be mounted in the upright position on the
rear of the vehicle.

Subd. 3a.

Small trailer.

If the vehicle is a trailer with 3,000 pounds or less GVW
with lifetime registration, the numbered plate or sticker must be adhered to the side of the
trailer frame tongue near the hitch.

Subd. 4.

Collector's vehicle.

If the vehicle is (1) a collector's vehicle with a pioneer,
classic car, collector, or street rod license; (2) a vehicle that meets the requirements
of a pioneer, classic, or street rod vehicle except that the vehicle is used for general
transportation purposes; or (3) a vehicle that is of model year 1972 or earlier, not registered
under section 168.10, subdivision 1c, and is used for general transportation purposes, then
one plate must be displayed on the rear of the vehicle deleted text begin , or one plate on the front and one
on the rear, at the discretion of the owner deleted text end .

Subd. 5.

Truck-tractor, road-tractor, or farm truck.

If the vehicle is a
truck-tractor, road-tractor, or farm truck, as defined in section 168.002, subdivision 8, but
excluding from that definition semitrailers and trailers, then one plate must be displayed
on the front of the vehicle.

Subd. 6.

Other motor vehicles.

If the motor vehicle is any kind of motor vehicle
other than those provided for in deleted text begin subdivisions 2 to deleted text end new text begin subdivision 3a, new text end 4, new text begin or 5, new text end one plate must be
displayed on the deleted text begin front and one on the deleted text end rear of the vehicle.

Subd. 7.

Plate fastened and visible.

All plates must be (1) securely fastened so as
to prevent them from swinging, (2) displayed horizontally with the identifying numbers
and letters facing outward from the vehicle, and (3) mounted in the upright position. The
person driving the motor vehicle shall keep the plate legible and unobstructed and free
from grease, dust, or other blurring material so that the lettering is plainly visible at all
times. It is unlawful to cover any assigned letters and numbers or the name of the state
of origin of a license plate with any material whatever, including any clear or colorless
material that affects the plate's visibility or reflectivity.

Subd. 8.

Plate registration deleted text begin stickers deleted text end new text begin sticker new text end .

As viewed facing the plates:

(a) new text begin A new text end license deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued to deleted text begin vehicles deleted text end new text begin a vehicle new text end registered under section
168.017 must display the month of expiration in the lower left corner of deleted text begin each deleted text end new text begin the new text end plate and
the year of expiration in the lower right corner of deleted text begin each deleted text end new text begin the new text end plate.

(b) new text begin A new text end license deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued to deleted text begin vehicles deleted text end new text begin vehicle new text end registered under section 168.127
must display either new text begin a new text end fleet registration validation deleted text begin stickers deleted text end new text begin sticker new text end in the lower right corner
of deleted text begin each deleted text end new text begin the new text end plate or new text begin a new text end distinctive license deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , issued by the registrar, with "FLEET
REG" displayed on the bottom center portion of deleted text begin each deleted text end new text begin the new text end plate.

(c) new text begin A new text end license deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued after July 1, 2008, requiring validation must display
the month of expiration in the lower left corner of deleted text begin each deleted text end new text begin the new text end plate and the year of expiration
in the lower right corner of the plate.

Subd. 9.

Tax-exempt vehicle marking.

deleted text begin Vehicles deleted text end new text begin A vehicle new text end displaying new text begin a new text end tax-exempt
deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued under section 16B.581 or 168.012 must have vehicle markings that
comply with section 168.012, subdivision 1.

Sec. 64.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 169A.37, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Crime described.

It is a crime for a person:

(1) to fail to comply with an impoundment order under section 169A.60
(administrative plate impoundment);

(2) to file a false statement under section 169A.60, subdivision 7, 8, or 14;

(3) to operate a self-propelled motor vehicle on a street or highway when the vehicle
is subject to an impoundment order issued under section 169A.60, unless new text begin a new text end specially
coded deleted text begin plates have deleted text end new text begin plate has new text end been issued for the vehicle pursuant to section 169A.60,
subdivision 13;

(4) to fail to notify the commissioner of the impoundment order when requesting
new text begin a new text end new deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end ;

(5) who is subject to a plate impoundment order under section 169A.60, to drive,
operate, or be in control of any motor vehicle during the impoundment period, unless the
vehicle has new text begin a new text end specially coded deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued pursuant to section 169A.60, subdivision
13, and the person is validly licensed to drive; or

(6) who is the transferee of a motor vehicle and who has signed a sworn statement
under section 169A.60, subdivision 14, to allow the previously registered owner to drive,
operate, or be in control of the vehicle during the impoundment period.

Sec. 65.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 169A.55, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Reinstatement of driving privileges; notice.

Upon expiration of a period
of revocation under section 169A.52 (license revocation for test failure or refusal) or
169A.54 (impaired driving convictions and adjudications; administrative penalties), the
commissioner shall notify the person of the terms upon which driving privileges can be
reinstated, and new text begin a new text end new registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end issued, which terms are: (1) successful
completion of an examination and proof of compliance with any terms of alcohol treatment
or counseling previously prescribed, if any; and (2) any other requirements imposed by
the commissioner and applicable to that particular case. The commissioner shall notify
the owner of a motor vehicle subject to an impoundment order under section 169A.60
(administrative impoundment of plates) as a result of the violation of the procedures for
obtaining new text begin a new text end new registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end , if the owner is not the violator. The commissioner
shall also notify the person that if driving is resumed without reinstatement of driving
privileges or without new text begin a new text end valid registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end and registration certificate, the person
will be subject to criminal penalties.

Sec. 66.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 221.031, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Vehicle identification rule.

(a) The following carriers shall display the
carrier's name on the power unit of each vehicle:

(1) motor carriers, regardless of the weight of the vehicle, except that this
requirement does not apply to a limousine as defined in section 168.002, subdivision 15,
that is equipped with new text begin an new text end "LM" license deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end ;

(2) interstate and intrastate private carriers operating vehicles with a gross vehicle
weight of more than 10,000 pounds; and

(3) vehicles providing transportation described in section 221.025 with a gross
vehicle weight of more than 10,000 pounds except those providing transportation
described in section 221.025, clauses (1), (3), and (4).

Vehicles described in clauses (2) and (3) that are operated by farmers or farm employees
and have four or fewer axles are not required to comply with the vehicle identification
rule of the commissioner.

(b) Vehicles subject to this subdivision must show the name or "doing business as"
name of the carrier operating the vehicle. If the carrier operates a leased vehicle, it may
show its name and the name of the lessor on the vehicle, if the lease relationship is clearly
shown. If the name of a person other than the operating carrier appears on the vehicle, the
words "operated by" must immediately precede the name of the carrier.

(c) The name must be in letters that contrast sharply in color with the background,
be readily legible during daylight hours from a distance of 50 feet while the vehicle is
stationary, and be maintained in a manner that retains the legibility of the markings. The
name may be shown by use of a removable device if that device meets the identification
and legibility requirements of this subdivision.

Sec. 67.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 297B.01, subdivision 15, is amended to read:

Subd. 15.

Purchaser.

"Purchaser" shall mean any person owning or in possession
of a motor vehicle who makes application to the motor vehicle registrar for new text begin a new text end registration
deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end for deleted text begin such deleted text end new text begin the new text end vehicle or for transfer of ownership of a vehicle previously
registered in this state.

Sec. 68.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 325F.662, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Definitions.

For the purposes of this section, the following terms
have the meanings given to them.

(a) "Consumer" means the purchaser, other than for purposes of resale, of a used
motor vehicle used primarily for personal, family, or household purposes.

(b) "Dealer" means a motor vehicle dealer or lessor, as defined in section 168.27,
subdivisions 2, 3, and 4, whether licensed or unlicensed, or the dealer's or lessor's agent,
who is engaged in the business of selling or arranging the sale of used motor vehicles in
this state; except that, the term does not include a bank or financial institution, a business
selling a used motor vehicle to an employee of that business, a lessor selling, either
directly or indirectly, a leased used motor vehicle to that vehicle's lessee or a family
member or employee of the lessee, or a licensed auctioneer selling motor vehicles at an
auction if, in the ordinary course of the auctioneer's business, the sale of motor vehicles
is incidental to the sale of other real or personal property.

(c) "Motor vehicle" means a passenger automobile, as defined in section 168.002,
subdivision 24, including pickup trucks and vans.

(d) "Used motor vehicle" means any motor vehicle which has been driven more
than the limited use necessary in moving or road testing a new motor vehicle prior to
delivery to a consumer. The term does not include a new motor vehicle sold by a dealer
franchised to sell the vehicle if the vehicle was driven for demonstration purposes using
new text begin a new text end dealer deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end and if, when the vehicle was sold, it carried a manufacturer's express
warranty which provides coverage at least as broad with respect to covered components
and duration as that required by this section.

(e) "Express warranty" means a dealer's written statement, as defined in section
325G.17, subdivision 5, provided to a consumer in connection with the sale of a used
motor vehicle.

(f) "Buyer's Guide" means the window form required by the Federal Trade
Commission's "Used Motor Vehicle Trade Regulation Rule," Code of Federal Regulations,
title 16, section 455.2.

Sec. 69.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 609B.231, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Revocation.

(a) In addition to criminal penalties, a person driving
commercial vehicles with an excess of gross weight is subject under section 168.013,
subdivision 3, paragraph (d), under certain circumstances, to cancellation of the certificate
of registration and impoundment of new text begin the new text end registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end .

(b) A person operating a commercial motor vehicle who commits a specified first or
second driving offense, a defined serious traffic violation, a violation of an out-of-service
order, or a railroad grade crossing violation is disqualified under section 171.17 from
operating a commercial motor vehicle for varying periods depending upon the offense
committed as set forth in section 171.17, subdivision 1.

Sec. 70.

Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 609B.237, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Driving after suspension, revocation, or cancellation.

A person
convicted of driving a self-propelled motor vehicle after suspension, revocation, or
cancellation of the person's driver's license shall have the registration deleted text begin plates deleted text end new text begin plate new text end
impounded under section 168.041, subdivision 1.

Sec. 71. new text begin REVISOR'S INSTRUCTION.
new text end

new text begin For Minnesota Statutes 2009 Supplement, the revisor of statutes shall change the
terms "plates" and "disability plates" as follows:
new text end

new text begin (a) "Plates" must be changed to "plate," "a plate," or "the plate," as applicable, where
found in Minnesota Statutes, sections 97B.055, subdivision 3; 168.013, subdivisions 3,
7; 168.014; 168.04, clause (1); 168.031; 168.041, subdivisions 1, 2, 3, 4, 9; 168.123,
subdivision 2; 168.1298, subdivision 4; 168.17; 168.183, subdivision 3; 168.187,
subdivision 26; 168.301, subdivisions 1, 2; 168A.11, subdivision 1; 168A.13, subdivision
3; 168D.15; 169.041, subdivision 4; 169.346, subdivision 3; 169.79; 169.798, subdivision
2; 169A.44, subdivision 2; 297B.05; 297B.06; 297B.07; and 360.59, subdivision 6.
new text end

new text begin (b) "Disability plates" must be changed to "disability plate," "a disability plate," or
"the disability plate," as applicable, where found in Minnesota Statutes, sections 85.052,
subdivision 3; 85.053, subdivision 7; 168.002, subdivision 18; 169.345, subdivisions 1,
2a, 3; 169.346, subdivision 2; and 325E.08.
new text end