A custom front license plate is a fun way to show off a hobby, a pet or a little holiday spirit. Sublimation makes the colors bright and glossy, and they hold up well outdoors.
They’re also quick to press, so they make great small gifts.
I rounded up 10 sublimation license plate ideas, starting with firefighters and animals, and finishing with patriotic and holiday plates. Each one comes with the file.
Tip: Adding a name to a plate? Try a few name styles first with our free Cricut Font Previewer.
Sublimation License Plate Blanks
Here’s what to look for:
- Aluminum plates: the most common blank. They’re 6 x 12 inches with a white glossy coating and pre-drilled holes.
- Kids’ bike plates: smaller plates, about 2 x 6 inches, that fit bikes and scooters.
- Plate frames: some sublimation blanks are frames instead of plates, for a name or a short saying.
Always use plates sold as sublimation blanks, and check your state’s rules. Most places only allow decorative plates on the front of the car.
Tips for Pressing License Plates
Peel off the protective film first, then tape the print face down on the white side. A flat heat press works best, since the plate needs even pressure from edge to edge.
Lift the plate off with heat-resistant gloves and let it cool flat. Aluminum gets very hot and can bend if you move it too soon.
10 Sublimation License Plate Ideas
Here are my favorite license plate designs, starting with firefighters and animals, and finishing with patriotic and holiday plates.
1. Firefighter License Plates
Most Popular License Plate File
A bundle of 8 plates with fire trucks, firefighters and glowing flames, each labeled “Firefighter.”
With over 120 favorites, it’s the most popular file in this list. It’s a great thank-you gift for a fire station.
2. Tiger Eyes Plate
Boldest Animal Plate
A close-up of a tiger’s face with piercing green eyes.
It’s bold and eye-catching on the front of a truck. Sports fans of a tiger mascot will love it too.
3. Pug in Space Plate
Best for Dog Lovers
A wrinkly pug face on a glowing teal and purple space background.
Pug parents will think it’s adorable. It makes a fun gift for a dog groomer or a new puppy owner.
4. Stained Glass Butterfly Plate
Prettiest Plate
Bright stained glass butterflies in orange, teal and yellow.
The bold colors pop in the sun. Pair it with a matching keychain for a sweet gift.
5. Galaxy Swirl Plate
Best Space Design
A dreamy swirl of blue and purple space with stars and glowing clouds.
It’s perfect for a teen’s first car. Add a name or initials in white on top.
6. American Flag Sunflower Plate
Best Patriotic Plate
Big golden sunflowers over a waving American flag.
With 46 favorites, it’s a proven seller for the Fourth of July and Memorial Day. It also looks great on a farm truck.
7. Highland Cow Flag Plate
Best Farmhouse Plate
A fluffy highland cow in front of a soft American flag.
Cow lovers and farm families will both want one. Pair it with the sunflower plate for a matching set.
8. Vintage License Plate Alphabet
Best for Personalizing
36 rusty, vintage-style plate letters and numbers, from A to Z and 0 to 9.
Spell out a name, a family motto or a pet’s name. You can also print the letters for signs and wall decor.
9. Happy Thanksgiving Plates
Best Fall Plate
Six “Happy Thanksgiving” plates with turkeys, pumpkins, fall leaves and harvest fields.
Swap one onto the car for November. They’re also cute as fall signs on a front porch.
10. Inflated Ho Ho Ho Plates
Best Christmas Plate
Puffy 3D “Ho Ho Ho” letters and snowflakes on bright red and green.
The trendy inflated look feels fun and festive. It’s a cheerful stocking stuffer for anyone who drives.
Sublimation License Plate FAQs
What size is a sublimation license plate design?
A standard plate is 6 x 12 inches. Most designs are made at that size with a little extra bleed around the edges.
Are sublimated license plates legal?
Decorative plates are usually fine on the front of a car, but they can’t replace your official plate. Check your state’s rules first.
Do I need to mirror license plate designs?
Yes. Mirror your design before printing so names and words read the right way.
Will a sublimated license plate fade in the sun?
Sublimation is quite fade resistant, but strong sun can dull it over time. A UV clear coat spray adds extra protection.
