Michigan drivers have a new way to show their 4-H pride while supporting 4-H youth development programming: through the purchase of the newly released Michigan 4-H license plate. Available at the Michigan Secretary of State, the plate prominently displays the signature 4-H clover and part of the proceeds from every sale and renewal will go to support Michigan 4-H youth.

“We are elated that the Michigan 4-H license plate is officially here,” said Quentin Tyler, director of Michigan State University Extension, which is home to the Michigan 4-H program. “We hope the many members of our Michigan 4-H community — youth, parents, alumni and supporters — will consider supporting 4-H by purchasing a plate as they renew their licenses this year.”

Similar to other special cause fundraising license plates in the state, the Michigan 4-H license plate will cost $35, with $25 of the purchase fee benefiting Michigan 4-H youth development. A $10 fee will also be charged to benefit Michigan 4-H when the plate is renewed. License plates may be ordered by visiting Michigan.gov/sos, by mailing in a form or scheduling a visit to any Secretary of State office. The plate will be delivered by mail in two to three weeks.

“We are thrilled the day has arrived that we can order our own Michigan 4-H license plate,” said Michigan 4-H Foundation Board of Trustees President Andrew Walker. The foundation, MSU Extension’s nonprofit philanthropic partner that supports Michigan 4-H, is serving as the fiduciary agent for the license plate. “We can’t wait to see the clover on thousands of cars across the state, elevating visibility of the Michigan 4-H program while also generating additional support for it’s critical programs.”

Last year, Michigan 4-H reached more than 137,000 young people through hands-on learning experiences that allow youth to explore their passions and interests while growing confidence, life skills and a sense of responsibility. The program operates in every county in the state and is available to youth ages 5 to 19.

“The Michigan 4-H license plate will benefit our program in many ways, from increased funding to increased awareness,” said Tyler. “We owe a debt of gratitude to all who made this possible: our legislative sponsors and supporters, the Michigan 4-H Foundation and those at the Michigan Department of State who helped to move the plate into production so quickly.”

Legislation that enabled the creation of the Michigan 4-H fundraising license plate was first introduced in September 2023 by state reps. Matthew Bierlein (R-Vassar) and Reggie Miller (D-Van Buren Township). The bills provided for the creation and sale of a Michigan 4-H plate through the Secretary of State’s office, with a portion of the plate’s sale price distributed to the Michigan 4-H Foundation quarterly. The legislation passed the Michigan House in November 2023 and the Michigan Senate in June 2024 before being signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on July 23.

To learn more, community members can visit these web pages: Michigan 4-H license plate, Michigan 4-H and Michigan 4-H Foundation.