Frequently Asked Questions

Who is behind the TN Music Plate and where does my $38 go?

The Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum, a 501(c)3 not-for-profit museum, secured approval through the TN State Legislature for a music-themed specialty plate. Of your cost, $3 goes toward mailing and administration. In the state of Tennessee, a specialty license plate costs $35. Of that, $4 pays to produce the plate, and the State Legislature has determined that 10% of the balance goes to TN highway repairs, 40% goes to not-for-profit arts organizations throughout the state, and the remaining 50% goes to the sponsoring agency (in this case, Rock 'n' Soul and other Tennessee music charities). This 50% will go toward supporting music education for K-12 students throughout Tennessee.

When will I get my plate?

You are helping us reach our goal! Before a new specialty plate goes into production, 1,000 plates must be pre-sold. Rock 'n' Soul has until July, 2012 to pre-sell these 1,000 plates. We are already well on our way, and we will keep you posted. Once 1,000 have been pre-sold, production begins and you will be notified by the TN Dept. of Transportation. Also, after this initial goal, Tennessee's Music Plate will be easily available year after year.

What if we fail to reach the goal?

We're confident we will hit our goal of 1,000 license plates sold by July, 2012, however, if we don't, we will immediately reimburse your full license plate fee.

How do I get my plate?

Once production begins, you will receive a notice from the TN Dept. of Transportation, which you will take to the County Clerk's office to obtain your new plate!

What if I just renewed my plate?

When you receive your notice after our goal is reached, you can take it immediately to your County Clerk's office to redeem your plate, and they will pro-rate your annual renewal fee, or you can choose to hold it until it's time to renew again. Your choice.

Do I have to live in the state of Tennessee?

You must have a vehicle that is registered in the state of Tennessee.

Can I get the plate for a souvenir?

Unfortunately, no. These are authentic license plates from the TN Dept. of Transportation, and are only issued for use on registered Tennessee vehicles. So, come on... guitar your car!

Can I personalize my plate?

Yes, although personalization for any license plate in the state of Tennessee requires an additional fee. Making any specialty plate personalized increases the fees for that plate by an additional $70. Once your TN Music Plate is produced and you receive your notice, if you want it personalized, you must complete an Application for Tennessee Personalized License Plate and send it to the Taxpayer and Vehicle Services Division with the $70 fee indicated on the application.