NC H289

Authorizes the Division of Motor Vehicles to issue various special registration plates, adding 43 new plate designs including American Red Cross, Arthritis Foundation, ARTS NC, Boy Scouts of America, and many others.

Establishes a standardized format for special license plates (to be implemented by July 1, 2015) that allows plate numbers to be easily read by human eye and roadway cameras while designating a segment for unique organizational designs.

Sets additional registration fees ranging from $10 to $30 for special plates, with revenue distributed to the Special Registration Plate Account, Collegiate and Cultural Attraction Plate Account, Natural Heritage Trust Fund, and Parks and Recreation Trust Fund.

Requires the Division to receive 300 or more applications (or 150 for Marine Corps League) before developing and issuing most special plates; authorizes plates to expire if minimum applications are not received by July 1 of the second calendar year following authorization.

Directs quarterly transfer of special plate revenue to designated organizations and causes, including nonprofits, foundations, government agencies, and educational institutions that will use funds for their respective missions (disaster relief, scholarships, conservation, research, etc.).