Changes coming to Pennsylvania highway welcome signs & license plates

HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) — Governor Josh Shapiro unveiled new Pennsylvania license plates and “Welcome to Pennsylvania” highway signs today.

According to the Governor’s Office, the new license plates and welcome signs show off the new “Let Freedom Ring” design meant to celebrate Pennsylvania as the birthplace of American Democracy and highlight the state’s leading role in the celebrations of the United States in 2026.

“Pennsylvania is the birthplace of our democracy, and as Governor, I have been focused on advancing real freedom across the Commonwealth,” Governor Josh Shapiro said. “With all eyes on Pennsylvania as we prepare to host our country’s 250th birthday in 2026, our new license plates and welcome signs will celebrate the best of what the Commonwealth has to offer and show the country why Pennsylvania is the Great American Getaway and the birthplace of American freedom.”

The first eight new welcome signs have already been installed on U.S. 15 in Adams County; I-295 in Bucks County; I-90/the Ohio line in Erie County; I-70 in Fulton County; I-80 in Monroe County; Route 449 in Potter County; I-81 in Susquehanna County; and Route 1015 in Tioga County.

According to the Governor’s Office, an additional 29 signs will be installed in the coming months.

For Pennsylvanians looking to grab themselves the newly designed license plate, you can now sign up to receive an email update once they are ready to order in spring 2025.

Once the new plates become available, an email will be sent out explaining how vehicle owners can request one from PennDOT. It is important to note that Military, special organization, special fund, and specialty plates without legislatively mandated designs will also be updated with the new design.

PennDOT and its partners will use all existing standard-issue license plate inventory before transitioning to the new plate design.

abc27 news will keep you updated as more information becomes available.

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