Premier Danielle Smith (right) looks on as Dale Nally, Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction, speaks during a press conference on Oct. 15, 2025. (Gov't of Alberta livestream)

By rdnewsNOW staff

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Alberta getting new licence plates

Oct 15, 2025 | 2:16 PM

Alberta is getting new licence plates.

The UCP announced Wednesday a ‘tournament-style’ online vote to select a new licence plate design, which will replace the current one that was designed in 1984.

Regardless of design chosen, the new plate will bear the words ‘Strong and Free’ which was adopted in its Latin form — Fortis et liber — as the provincial motto in 1980.

‘Wild Rose Country’ had been on plates starting in 1974, and it was proposed to be done away with in 2014, but that was reversed, and it’s remained on ever since.

The UCP also note ‘Strong and Free’ will “serve as a nod to Canada’s national anthem and Alberta’s position as a strong and sovereign province within a united Canada.”

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Notably, ‘Strong and Free’ is also part of the UCP’s slogan, and a reference to the party’s Strong and Free Club, which is for top UCP supporters.

“From our wide-open landscapes to our entrepreneurial spirit, Alberta has so much to be proud of, and our new licence plate will reflect that pride,” said Premier Danielle Smith.

“For the first time in four decades, Albertans will choose how we tell that story. I look forward to seeing which design is selected to show the world that this is the land of the strong and free.”

If an Albertan driver wants to replace their current plate for the new one when it is released, they can pay a $28 fee. Or, Albertans can obtain the new plate on their vehicle registration renewal date at no additional cost. Motorists may also continue using the previous licence plate once the new licence plate is brought onboard, provided it is still in good condition.

The government also notes the new designs each incorporate reflective technology to improve readability for law enforcement and automated systems in low-light conditions, and also meet international standards for visibility, legibility and counterfeit resistance.

Place your vote here.