Wisconsin launches new Blackout and Retro license plates on Jan. 9, 2026, to fund road and bridge projects.

Wisconsin has launched two new specialty license plates—the all-black Blackout and retro butter yellow Retro designs—available at DMV locations, dealers, and online starting January 9, 2026. The plates, featuring white text on black and black letters on yellow with “America’s Dairyland,” require a $15 one-time fee and $25 annual charge. Gov. Tony Evers said they will generate over $25 million for road and bridge improvements over three years, supporting ongoing infrastructure projects. Both plates are produced at Waupun Correctional Institution, where inmates gain job training. The program is backed by $5.5 million in state funding and aims to boost transportation funding while meeting public demand.