In response to some out-of-state law enforcement agencies issuing summonses to New Jersey drivers, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) reminds all motor vehicle and law enforcement agencies across the country that the use of MVC passenger vehicle license plate decals was discontinued in 2004. However, decals are still issued for commercial vehicles and motorcycles.
The color-coded stickers for passenger vehicles were eliminated in October 2004 with the support of state and local law enforcement agencies. The decals were an alternative, low-tech method for police to determine if a vehicle had a valid registration. The color of the decal indicated the year the registration expired, while the number in the center of the decal indicated the month of expiration. The decals were placed in the upper right-hand corner of the front and rear license plates.
Since the discontinuation of the decals, a number of New Jersey motorists have contacted MVC with reports of being cited by out-of-state law enforcement for not having the required decals on their passenger vehicle. MVC encourages all motor vehicle and law enforcement agencies to share this information as a reminder that the decals are no longer a passenger vehicle requirement.