NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Purpose of Statute.

The primary purpose of the enactment of this chapter was to prevent trafficking in stolen cars. Hayes v. Hartford Acci. & Indem. Co., 57 Tenn. App. 254, 417 S.W.2d 804, 1967 Tenn. App. LEXIS 231 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1967).

2. Inapplicability to Floor Plan Loans to Auto Dealer.

One claiming a security interest in used or trade-in inventory vehicles of a dealer by reason of floor-plan loans to such dealer was not required to perfect such interest in the manner required in this chapter. In re Vaughn, 283 F. Supp. 730, 1968 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 8460 (M.D. Tenn. 1968).

3. Transfer Without Complying With Statute.

A transfer of a motor vehicle is not rendered void because of noncompliance with the provisions of the Motor Vehicle Title and Registration Law respecting transfer and delivery of certificate of title. Hayes v. Hartford Acci. & Indem. Co., 57 Tenn. App. 254, 417 S.W.2d 804, 1967 Tenn. App. LEXIS 231 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1967).

4. —Buyer in Ordinary Course of Business.

Purchaser's failure to obtain from the seller a certificate of title did not in and of itself deny the purchaser the status of a buyer in ordinary course of business. Couch v. Cockroft, 490 S.W.2d 713, 1972 Tenn. App. LEXIS 317 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1972).

5. Registration as Evidence of Ownership.

Registration of a vehicle a few months before the alleged commission of a crime is practically conclusive in the absence of fraud or other equitable conditions of the defendant's ownership at that time. Reece v. State, 197 Tenn. 383, 273 S.W.2d 475, 1954 Tenn. LEXIS 498 (1954).

6. UCC Secured Transactions Law Inapplicable.

The filing provisions of title 47, ch. 9, parts 1-5 do not apply to property subject to this chapter. In re Custom Caps, Inc., 1 B.R. 99, 1979 Bankr. LEXIS 844 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1979).

7. Semitrailers.

Security interests in semitrailers are perfected by notation of the lien on the vehicle's certificate of title. In re Sexton, 18 B.R. 730, 1981 Bankr. LEXIS 2357 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1981), aff'd, 18 B.R. 733, 1982 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 11525 (E.D. Tenn. 1982), aff'd, Fruehauf Corp. v. Sexton, 18 B.R. 733 (E.D. Tenn. 1982).

A security interest in a semitrailer used by a debtor as equipment need not be noted on a title but may be perfected by filing with the secretary of state. In re Johnson, 39 B.R. 478, 1984 Bankr. LEXIS 5812 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1984).

8. Rights of Creditors.

A creditor cannot obtain a superior judicial lien on a motor vehicle once the transferee has satisfied the requirements for recording the lien on the certificate of title as set out in this chapter. In re Murray, 27 B.R. 445, 1983 Bankr. LEXIS 6850 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1983), aff'd, 33 B.R. 112, 1983 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 16834 (M.D. Tenn. 1983).

9. Mobile Homes.

Mobile homes purchased by a motel operator for use in the motel business but which were not so used were not inventory under former T.C.A. § 47-9-109(4) and should have been registered under T.C.A. § 55-3-101(a). In re Hughes, 58 B.R. 452, 1986 Bankr. LEXIS 6557 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1986).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Effect on Other Statutes.

In action by purchaser to cancel and rescind conditional sales contract for sale of automobile for breach of implied warranty under the former Uniform Sales Law (see now Uniform Commerical Code, §§ 47-2-101 et seq.), in that seller had failed to clear title or to provide purchaser with proper evidence of title, fact that car was taken to another state where it was seized because there was no certificate of title did not bar action to rescind contract where it could not have been lawfully operated in Tennessee. White v. Mid-City Motor Co., 39 Tenn. App. 429, 284 S.W.2d 689, 1955 Tenn. App. LEXIS 80 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1955).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Title Held for Another.

The fact that the person in whose name an automobile was registered was holding title for her son, a minor, who made all payments on the purchase price, did not affect her status as owner of the vehicle and as the insured under an insurance policy on the vehicle. Royal Indem. Co. v. Clingan, 364 F.2d 154, 1966 U.S. App. LEXIS 5239 (6th Cir. Tenn. 1966).

2. Secured Transactions.

A security interest in motor vehicles held as inventory by a dealer may be perfected by filing a financing statement. In re Poteet, 5 B.R. 631, 1980 Bankr. LEXIS 4642 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1980).

Security interests in semitrailers are perfected by notation of the lien on the vehicle's certificate of title. In re Sexton, 18 B.R. 730, 1981 Bankr. LEXIS 2357 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1981), aff'd, 18 B.R. 733, 1982 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 11525 (E.D. Tenn. 1982), aff'd, Fruehauf Corp. v. Sexton, 18 B.R. 733 (E.D. Tenn. 1982).

A security interest in a semitrailer used by a debtor as equipment need not be noted on a title but may be perfected by filing with the secretary of state. In re Johnson, 39 B.R. 478, 1984 Bankr. LEXIS 5812 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1984).

3. Receipt of Application by Clerk.

This section does not make the county clerk an “agent” for the motor vehicle division, and, therefore, receipt by the county clerk of the title application is not sufficient to perfect defendant's security interest. In re Haynes, 28 B.R. 136, 1983 Bankr. LEXIS 6784 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1983), aff'd, 33 B.R. 118, 1983 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 15335 (M.D. Tenn. 1983).

4. Intention of Parties Determines Ownership.

The intention of the parties, not the certificate of title, determines the ownership of an automobile. Smith v. Smith, 650 S.W.2d 54, 1983 Tenn. App. LEXIS 542 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1983).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Finance Company Lien.

Where finance company held certificate of title issued by state to mortgagor as provided by this section, the lien set forth on certificate was notice of lien of finance company to operator of garage who repaired car, and finance company was entitled to possession of car held by garage for repair bill. City Finance Co. v. Perry, 195 Tenn. 81, 257 S.W.2d 1, 1953 Tenn. LEXIS 304, 36 A.L.R.2d 224 (1953).

2. Disposition of Title after Cancellation of Lien.

Where dealer, after taking used car in trade paid off lien on such vehicle, it was proper for the lienor to forward the certificate of title to the owner whose name appeared on the certificate, and lienor could not be held liable for failing to send it to the dealer. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp. v. Vaughn, 43 Tenn. App. 9, 305 S.W.2d 513, 1956 Tenn. App. LEXIS 148 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1956).

While under T.C.A. § 55-3-114(c), a prior lienor had a duty to release the certificate of title to the refinancing creditor upon request by the creditor, it was ultimately the creditor's responsibility to get the title from the prior lienor or to obtain a duplicate title, as it eventually did, more than two years after the fact; the creditor's security interest, perfected after the debtor filed bankruptcy, was avoidable by the debtor's Chapter 7 trustee under 11 U.S.C. § 544, and T.C.A. § 47-9-301, the creditor was not perfected under T.C.A. § 55-3-126, the creditor's security interest was void as in violation of the automatic stay of 11 U.S.C. § 362(a)(4), and the trustee was entitled to turnover under 11 U.S.C. § 542 of insurance proceeds paid to the creditor by an insurance company. Farmer v. LaSalle Bank (In re Morgan), 291 B.R. 795, 2003 Bankr. LEXIS 327 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 2003).

3. Unlawful Disposition of Vehicle Subject to Lien.

In prosecution under former § 39-3-936 (repealed; see §§ 39-14-104, 39-14-116) for unlawful disposition of motor vehicles subject to security interest, it was not necessary to establish that such liens had been perfected under this chapter. Ashworth v. State, 477 S.W.2d 224, 1971 Tenn. Crim. App. LEXIS 456 (Tenn. Crim. App. 1971).

4. Title Held for Another.

The fact that the person in whose name an automobile was registered was holding title for her son, a minor, who made all payments on the purchase price did not affect her status as owner of the vehicle and as the named insured under an insurance policy on the vehicle. Royal Indem. Co. v. Clingan, 364 F.2d 154, 1966 U.S. App. LEXIS 5239 (6th Cir. Tenn. 1966).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Transfer Without Complying with Statute.

Rights of party who properly had lien noted on certificate of title were superior to those of others who had loaned money on car but who had not complied with statute and who delayed sending lien notice to department. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp. v. Vaughn, 43 Tenn. App. 9, 305 S.W.2d 513, 1956 Tenn. App. LEXIS 148 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1956).

Where dealer took used car in trade and paid off lien and then sold the vehicle giving the purchaser a bill of sale upon execution of a title retention contract which contract was not registered, and the purchaser subsequently obtained the certificate of title from the original owner to whom the lienor had forwarded the certificate of title, dealer had not complied with statute and had no rights as against parties subsequently making loans on car. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp. v. Vaughn, 43 Tenn. App. 9, 305 S.W.2d 513, 1956 Tenn. App. LEXIS 148 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1956).

A transfer of a motor vehicle is not rendered void because of noncompliance with the provisions of the motor vehicle title and registration law respecting transfer and delivery of certificate of title. Hayes v. Hartford Acci. & Indem. Co., 57 Tenn. App. 254, 417 S.W.2d 804, 1967 Tenn. App. LEXIS 231 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1967).

Where owners of automobiles exchanged control and possession of vehicles, switched license plates, agreed on the value of the vehicles, one owner paid the other a cash difference and owners intended at that time to pass title to the cars, insurance carrier of seller of one of motor vehicles was not liable for damages arising out of accident in which purchaser was involved even though the provisions of the title and registration law had not been complied with at the time of the accident. Stevens v. State Farm Mut. Auto. Ins. Co., 59 Tenn. App. 701, 443 S.W.2d 512, 1969 Tenn. App. LEXIS 350 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1969).

Failure to comply with the title and registration laws does not render the sale of a motor vehicle void. Stevens v. State Farm Mut. Auto. Ins. Co., 59 Tenn. App. 701, 443 S.W.2d 512, 1969 Tenn. App. LEXIS 350 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1969); Mercado v. Travelers Ins. Co., 59 Tenn. App. 741, 443 S.W.2d 819, 1969 Tenn. App. LEXIS 352 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1969).

Under suitable circumstances a transfer of ownership may occur without compliance with the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Title and Registration Law. Mercado v. Travelers Ins. Co., 59 Tenn. App. 741, 443 S.W.2d 819, 1969 Tenn. App. LEXIS 352 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1969).

Failure to comply with § 55-3-126 does not prevent title to a motor vehicle from passing to the transferee since title to goods generally passes according to the agreement of the parties. In re Custom Caps, Inc., 1 B.R. 99, 1979 Bankr. LEXIS 844 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1979).

2. Title by Bill of Sale.

A dealer must transfer title on certificate of title only if certificate is in his possession and if not he can transfer title by assignment or bill of sale acknowledged before a notary public. Hunter v. Moore, 38 Tenn. App. 533, 276 S.W.2d 754, 1954 Tenn. App. LEXIS 139 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1954).

3. —Estoppel.

Where a dealer delivers possession of a car along with indicia of perfect title in a notarized bill of sale since he does not have a certificate of title and is not required to get one, he is estopped to assert a claim against a purchaser for value from the original purchaser. Hunter v. Moore, 38 Tenn. App. 533, 276 S.W.2d 754, 1954 Tenn. App. LEXIS 139 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1954).

Vendor of motor vehicle is not estopped from denying title against purchasers from his purchaser in a replevin suit where later purchasers do not rely on original bill of sale since vendor reserved title pending cashing of original purchaser's check which was dishonored. Edwards v. Central Motor Co., 38 Tenn. App. 577, 277 S.W.2d 413, 1954 Tenn. App. LEXIS 143 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1954), aff'd, 198 Tenn. 50, 277 S.W.2d 417, 1955 Tenn. LEXIS 343 (1955).

4. Date Transfer Effective.

Purchaser of truck from dealer became owner as of day of transfer despite fact that certificate of title was not assigned until some two months later the provisions of the motor vehicle title and registration law relating to transfer and delivery of certificates of title being directory and not mandatory. Hayes v. Hartford Acci. & Indem. Co., 57 Tenn. App. 254, 417 S.W.2d 804, 1967 Tenn. App. LEXIS 231 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1967).

Where dealer sold and delivered automobile on a conditional sales contract, and where purchaser filed for bankruptcy before dealer could apply for new certificate of title with notation as to his lien, title passed notwithstanding failure to comply with this section, the dealer had only an unperfected security interest, and the trustee's rights in the collateral were superior. In re Russell, 300 F. Supp. 6, 1969 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 9451 (E.D. Tenn. 1969).

5. Title Held for Another.

Where a mother had title registered in her name, but her minor son made all payments on purchase price and would eventually become the owner, the son did not become the owner prior to the mother's transfer of title as required by this section. Royal Indem. Co. v. Clingan, 364 F.2d 154, 1966 U.S. App. LEXIS 5239 (6th Cir. Tenn. 1966).

Where employer purchased automobile in his name for an employee because of the employee's credit rating but never intended to own it and immediately gave a written bill of sale to employee who took possession and made payments to finance company, evidence supported finding that ownership was transferred to the employee, although vehicle remained registered in employer's name and employer's insurance carrier was not liable for damages arising out of accident involving vehicle while being driven by employee. Mercado v. Travelers Ins. Co., 59 Tenn. App. 741, 443 S.W.2d 819, 1969 Tenn. App. LEXIS 352 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1969).

6. Evidence.

Evidence that insured still had title to automobile and Baker, who was driving it at the time of the collision, had not paid any of the purchase price at such time, that insured could have repossessed the vehicle at any time, and that insured sold the vehicle after the collision without consulting Baker, sustained finding that defendant's insured was the owner of the automobile at the time of the accident in which automobile collided with plaintiff's truck and that Baker at that time was using automobile with the permission of insured and thus was an additional insured, therefore defendant insurer was liable for the injuries sustained in the collision. Benton v. State Farm Mut. Auto. Ins. Co., 306 F.2d 179, 1962 U.S. App. LEXIS 4313 (6th Cir. Tenn. 1962).

7. Intention of Parties.

The intention of the parties, not the certificate of title, determines the ownership of an automobile. Smith v. Smith, 650 S.W.2d 54, 1983 Tenn. App. LEXIS 542 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1983).

8. Breach of Warranty of Title.

Failure of automobile dealer to obtain certificate of title or title card from person from whom it purchased used automobile or to clear the title and cause conditional purchaser of such automobile to be provided with title card or proper evidence of title upon sale of such automobile constituted a breach of implied warranty under the former Uniform Sales Act (now Uniform Commercial Code, § 47-1-101 et seq.) entitling the buyer to rescind the contract. White v. Mid-City Motor Co., 39 Tenn. App. 429, 284 S.W.2d 689, 1955 Tenn. App. LEXIS 80 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1955).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Effect of Failure to Register.

Failure to register a motor vehicle as required by this section does not exclude it from the application of § 55-3-125 so as to establish a lien not shown on the certificate of title. In re Wallace, 251 F. Supp. 581, 1966 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 6912 (E.D. Tenn. 1966).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Provisions Directory.

This section being in derogation of the common law, the provisions relating to transfer of the dealer's muniments of title will be regarded as directory rather than mandatory to perfect title. Hunter v. Moore, 38 Tenn. App. 533, 276 S.W.2d 754, 1954 Tenn. App. LEXIS 139 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1954).

Failure of the seller to comply with this section did not prevent ownership of the vehicle from passing to the buyer, the certificate of title being merely evidence of ownership. Garrett v. American Mut. Liability Ins. Co., 261 F. Supp. 161, 1966 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 9598 (E.D. Tenn. 1966).

A transfer of a motor vehicle is not rendered void because of noncompliance with the provisions of the Motor Vehicle Title and Registration Law respecting transfer and delivery of certificate of title. Hayes v. Hartford Acci. & Indem. Co., 57 Tenn. App. 254, 417 S.W.2d 804, 1967 Tenn. App. LEXIS 231 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1967).

2. Date Transfer Effective.

Purchaser of truck from dealer became owner as of day of transfer despite fact that certificate of title was not assigned until some two months later the provisions of the Motor Vehicle Title and Registration Law relating to transfer and delivery of certificates of title being directory and not mandatory. Hayes v. Hartford Acci. & Indem. Co., 57 Tenn. App. 254, 417 S.W.2d 804, 1967 Tenn. App. LEXIS 231 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1967).

3. Purchaser in Good Faith.

Purchaser at auction was good faith purchaser for value without notice and not negligent where he got a bill of sale from his vendor who also gave him a bill of sale from vendor's vendor obtained by dishonored check where original vendor obtained car from resident of nontitle certificate state, although final purchaser got no title certificate until later, directly from the state on showing the bills of sale. Hunter v. Moore, 38 Tenn. App. 533, 276 S.W.2d 754, 1954 Tenn. App. LEXIS 139 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1954).

4. Duties of Dealers.

This section relieves the dealer of the duty of obtaining in his own name a new certificate of title but not of placing evidence of ownership in the hands of the transferee. White v. Mid-City Motor Co., 39 Tenn. App. 429, 284 S.W.2d 689, 1955 Tenn. App. LEXIS 80 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1955).

Where motor vehicle dealer failed to deliver to purchaser of automobile a properly executed bill of sale as required by law the dealer was guilty of a breach of warranty under former § 47-1213 (now covered by Uniform Commercial Code) and purchaser had option to rescind the contract and recover the purchase price under former § 47-1269 (now covered by Uniform Commercial Code). Schaeffer v. Richard, 43 Tenn. App. 205, 306 S.W.2d 340, 1956 Tenn. App. LEXIS 149 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1956).

A seller in Tennessee does not have a higher duty in the course of business to a nonresident purchaser than to a resident purchaser, and there is no duty on the part of a seller to know the law of the state of residence of the purchaser of a product or to inform the purchaser of the law. Devorak v. Patterson, 907 S.W.2d 815, 1995 Tenn. App. LEXIS 307 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1995).

5. Evidence of Ownership by Dealer.

Where automobile dealer did not have certificate of title to automobile, not only purchaser of automobile but also finance company who purchased retained title contract should have been put on notice that title was not in order. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp. v. Bank of Knoxville, 204 Tenn. 605, 324 S.W.2d 417, 1959 Tenn. LEXIS 316 (1959).

6. Dealer Inventory — Security Interest.

This section excludes dealer inventory from the provisions of §§ 55-3-125 and 55-3-126 and one claiming a security interest in used or trade-in inventory vehicles of a dealer was not required to perfect such interest in the manner required in § 55-3-126. In re Vaughn, 283 F. Supp. 730, 1968 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 8460 (M.D. Tenn. 1968).

7. Liens.

8. —Notice.

The filing and notation of the lien or encumbrance constitutes constructive notice to all persons of the existence of all liens or encumbrances from the time of receipt and filing of the request for notation except as to liens dependent upon possession. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp. v. Bank of Knoxville, 204 Tenn. 605, 324 S.W.2d 417, 1959 Tenn. LEXIS 316 (1959).

Where automobile dealer executed chattel mortgage to bank to secure note given to finance purchase of automobile, and bank forwarded notice of mortgage and note to department of motor vehicle title division where title certificate was issued with notation of lien and where dealer subsequently sold automobile and furnished notarized bill of sale with warranty against encumbrance, and purchaser executed retained title contract which was purchased by finance company, bank was entitled to possession of automobile as against claim of finance company made after purchaser elected to rescind contract because of failure of dealer to furnish title. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp. v. Bank of Knoxville, 204 Tenn. 605, 324 S.W.2d 417, 1959 Tenn. LEXIS 316 (1959).

9. —Priority.

Rights of party who properly had lien noted on certificate of title were superior to those of others who had loaned money on car but who had not complied with statute and who delayed sending lien notice to department. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp. v. Vaughn, 43 Tenn. App. 9, 305 S.W.2d 513, 1956 Tenn. App. LEXIS 148 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1956).

Where dealer took used car in trade and paid off lien and then sold the vehicle giving the purchaser a bill of sale upon execution of a title retention contract which contract was not registered, and the purchaser subsequently obtained the certificate of title from the original owner to whom the lienor had forwarded the certificate of title, dealer had not complied with statute and had no rights as against parties subsequently making loans on car. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp. v. Vaughn, 43 Tenn. App. 9, 305 S.W.2d 513, 1956 Tenn. App. LEXIS 148 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1956).

Notice of federal tax lien filed under §§ 66-21-201 — 66-21-205 against all property of taxpayer in county where property was situated had priority over chattel mortgage subsequently filed under Tennessee Motor Vehicle and Title Registration Law by finance company which took chattel mortgage on vehicle as security. Atlas Finance Co. v. Wilkerson, 214 Tenn. 619, 382 S.W.2d 529, 1964 Tenn. LEXIS 514 (1964).

A “mobile home” that has had its wheels removed and has been affixed to realty is not subject to the certificate of title provisions for motor vehicles under chapters 1 and 3 of this title and therefore plaintiff's security interest, which was noted on a certificate of title to the home and was perfected in accordance with those provisions could not take priority over defendant's real estate mortgage, which was created by a deed of trust properly recorded in accordance with state mortgage law and with former § 47-9-401 (see now § 47-9-312). Associates Capital Corp. v. Cookeville Production Credit Asso., 569 S.W.2d 474, 1978 Tenn. App. LEXIS 296 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1978).

An application for notation of lien on the title to an automobile which was properly filed but subsequently lost due to error by the filing officials of the state did not perfect a security interest superior to a trustee in bankruptcy. Because Tennessee law required both filing and notation of the lien on an automobile title for perfection of a security interest, the trustee could defeat the putative lienor and sell the automobile free of the lien. In re York, 43 B.R. 36, 1984 Bankr. LEXIS 5018 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1984).

Decisions Under Prior Law

1. Application.

The former provisions of subsection (b) requiring bill of sale in lieu of assignment and warranty on certificate of title to be accompanied by title card made no exception in this regard to sales under bills of sale by dealers. White v. Mid-City Motor Co., 39 Tenn. App. 429, 284 S.W.2d 689, 1955 Tenn. App. LEXIS 80 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1955).

2. Breach of Warranty.

Failure of automobile dealer to obtain certificate of title or title card from person from whom it purchased used automobile or to clear the title and cause conditional purchaser of such automobile to be provided with title card or proper evidence of title upon sale of such automobile constituted a breach of implied warranty under the former Uniform Sales Act (now Uniform Commercial Code, § 47-1-101 et seq.) entitling the buyer to rescind the contract. White v. Mid-City Motor Co., 39 Tenn. App. 429, 284 S.W.2d 689, 1955 Tenn. App. LEXIS 80 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1955).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Failure to Comply With Law — Effect.

Party lending on automobile upon presentation of copy of application for transfer, did not comply with statute, and where it did not forward notice of lien to department until three weeks thereafter, it had no rights as against party properly obtaining lien during such period. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp. v. Vaughn, 43 Tenn. App. 9, 305 S.W.2d 513, 1956 Tenn. App. LEXIS 148 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1956).

2. —Failure to Register Lien.

Conditional sale vendor of tires to conditional sale buyer of automobile had right to recover for value of tires even though conditional sale of tires was not registered against assignee of conditional sale vendor of auto who repossessed auto without notice of tire contract on buyer's default and sold car under former § 47-1301 et seq. (now covered by Uniform Commercial Code), since tires are not component parts and can be separated without injury to the car. Free Service Tire Co. v. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp., 38 Tenn. App. 647, 277 S.W.2d 897, 1954 Tenn. App. LEXIS 151 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1954).

3. Dealer Inventory — Security Interest.

By reason of § 55-3-120, one claiming a security interest in used or trade-in inventory vehicles of a dealer by reason of floor-plan loans to such dealer was not required to perfect such interest in the manner required in this section. In re Vaughn, 283 F. Supp. 730, 1968 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 8460 (M.D. Tenn. 1968).

4. Mobile Homes.

A “mobile home” that has had its wheels removed and has been affixed to realty is not subject to the certificate of title provisions for motor vehicles under this chapter and chapter 1 of this title and therefore plaintiff's security interest, which was noted on a certificate of title to the home and was perfected in accordance with those provisions could not take priority over defendant's real estate mortgage, which was created by a deed of trust properly recorded in accordance with state mortgage law and with former § 47-9-401 (see now § 47-9-312). Associates Capital Corp. v. Cookeville Production Credit Asso., 569 S.W.2d 474, 1978 Tenn. App. LEXIS 296 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1978).

Where a lender's security interest was perfected by notation of its lien on the certificate of title in accordance with the Tennessee Motor Vehicle Title and Registration Law, the lender was not required to change the manner of perfection after the mobile home was affixed to realty. Roberts v. Green Tree Fin. Corp. (In re Cassady), 197 B.R. 846, 1996 Bankr. LEXIS 772 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1996).

5. Filing with Secretary of State.

A security interest in a semitrailer used by a debtor as equipment need not be noted on a title but may be perfected by filing with the secretary of state. In re Johnson, 39 B.R. 478, 1984 Bankr. LEXIS 5812 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1984).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Title.

Assignee of a retail installment contract for the purchase of a car had no duty under T.C.A. § 55-3-124(a) to a buyer to remove the name of a seller and have title to the car re-issued listing it as the lien holder; thus, the buyer's claims for negligence, slander of title, wrongful possession, and conspiracy failed as a matter of law. Parks v. Mid-Atlantic Fin. Co., 343 S.W.3d 792, 2011 Tenn. App. LEXIS 32 (Tenn. Ct. App. Jan. 31, 2011), appeal denied, — S.W.3d —, 2011 Tenn. LEXIS 509 (Tenn. May 25, 2011).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Tax Lien Statute Not Repealed.

Provisions of Tennessee Motor Vehicle Title and Registration Law relating to filing of liens and encumbrances upon motor vehicles did not repeal provisions of §§ 66-21-201 — 66-21-205 relative to filing of notice of federal tax liens and were not repugnant thereto. Atlas Finance Co. v. Wilkerson, 214 Tenn. 619, 382 S.W.2d 529, 1964 Tenn. LEXIS 514 (1964).

2. Application of Section — Unregistered Vehicle.

A motor vehicle is not excluded from the application of this section, so as to permit the establishment of a lien not shown on the certificate of title, by failure to register the vehicle. In re Wallace, 251 F. Supp. 581, 1966 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 6912 (E.D. Tenn. 1966).

3. Effect of Noncompliance — Creditors of Buyer.

The fact that the notarized bill of sale furnished by the seller showed on its face a lien of holder of conditional sale contract was not sufficient to give notice to creditors of bankrupt buyer of automobile. In re Crosson, 226 F. Supp. 944, 1963 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 6982 (E.D. Tenn. 1963).

Under Tennessee law, no conditional sales contract or other lien or encumbrance upon a registered vehicle, other than a lien dependent upon possession, shall be valid against creditors of the owner unless the lien is noted on the certificate of title. In re Crosson, 226 F. Supp. 944, 1963 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 6982 (E.D. Tenn. 1963); In re Custom Caps, Inc., 1 B.R. 99, 1979 Bankr. LEXIS 844 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1979).

4. —Security Interest in Dealer Inventory.

This section is not applicable to the used or trade-in inventory vehicles of a dealer and one claiming a security interest in such vehicles for floor-plan loans made to such dealer was not required to perfect such interest in the manner required in § 55-3-126. In re Vaughn, 283 F. Supp. 730, 1968 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 8460 (M.D. Tenn. 1968).

5. —Replevin Suit.

Assignee of vendor of truck sold to Georgia resident was not barred from instituting replevin suit for recovery of truck on the ground that vendee in registering truck in Tennessee failed to state that truck was subject to lien for unpaid purchase price where vendee removed truck to Tennessee without knowledge of vendor or its assignee. Lillard v. Yellow Mfg. Acceptance Corp., 195 Tenn. 686, 263 S.W.2d 520, 1953 Tenn. LEXIS 415 (1953).

6. Priority of Liens.

Rights of party who properly had lien noted on certificate of title were superior to those of others who had loaned money on car but who had not complied with statute and who delayed sending lien notice to department. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp. v. Vaughn, 43 Tenn. App. 9, 305 S.W.2d 513, 1956 Tenn. App. LEXIS 148 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1956).

Where dealer took used car in trade and paid off lien and then sold the vehicle giving the purchaser a bill of sale upon execution of a title retention contract which contract was not registered, and the purchaser subsequently obtained the certificate of title from the original owner to whom the lienor had forwarded the certificate of title, dealer had not complied with statute and had no rights as against parties subsequently making loans on car. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp. v. Vaughn, 43 Tenn. App. 9, 305 S.W.2d 513, 1956 Tenn. App. LEXIS 148 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1956).

Notice of federal tax lien filed under §§ 66-21-201 — 66-21-205 against all property of taxpayer in county where property was situated had priority over chattel mortgage subsequently filed under Tennessee Motor Vehicle and Title Registration Law by finance company which took chattel mortgage on vehicle as security. Atlas Finance Co. v. Wilkerson, 214 Tenn. 619, 382 S.W.2d 529, 1964 Tenn. LEXIS 514 (1964).

A “mobile home” that has had its wheels removed and has been affixed to realty is not subject to the certificate of title provisions for motor vehicles under chapters 1 and 3 of this title and therefore plaintiff's security interest, which was noted on a certificate of title to the home and was perfected in accordance with those provisions could not take priority over defendant's real estate mortgage, which was created by a deed of trust properly recorded in accordance with state mortgage law and with former § 47-9-401. Associates Capital Corp. v. Cookeville Production Credit Asso., 569 S.W.2d 474, 1978 Tenn. App. LEXIS 296 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1978).

An application for notation of lien on the title to an automobile which was properly filed but subsequently lost due to error by the filing officials of the state of Tennessee did not perfect a security interest superior to a trustee in bankruptcy. Because Tennessee law required both filing and notation of the lien on an automobile title for perfection of a security interest, the trustee could defeat the putative lienor and sell the automobile free of the lien. In re York, 43 B.R. 36, 1984 Bankr. LEXIS 5018 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1984).

7. Execution Liens.

As long as the statutory requirements governing execution liens and writs of execution are observed, persons claiming an execution lien need not comply with the filing requirements of Article Nine of the Commercial Code, T.C.A. § 47-9-101 et seq., because execution liens are not consensual security interests created by contract, and compliance with motor vehicle title and registration statutes is not required since execution liens depend on possession. Keep Fresh Filters v. Reguli, 888 S.W.2d 437, 1994 Tenn. App. LEXIS 503 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1994).

8. Possessory Ownership Interest.

This section bore no relevance to the transfer of a possessory ownership interest in a vehicle. In re Crabtree, 39 B.R. 713, 1984 Bankr. LEXIS 6065 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1984).

9. Vehicles Not Held as Inventory.

With respect to a motor vehicle in Tennessee not held as inventory, perfection of a security interest is accomplished by notation of a lien on the vehicle's certificate of title. In re Armstrong, 56 B.R. 781, 1986 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 30616 (W.D. Tenn. 1986).

10. Mobile Homes.

Security interests in mobile homes which complied with T.C.A. § 47-9-302 rather than T.C.A. § 55-3-125 and 55-3-126 were unperfected even though the mobile homes had been purchased for use in a motel business and had not been so occupied. In re Hughes, 58 B.R. 452, 1986 Bankr. LEXIS 6557 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1986).

Where a lender's security interest was perfected by notation of its lien on the certificate of title in accordance with the Tennessee Motor Vehicle Title and Registration Law, the lender was not required to change the manner of perfection after the mobile home was affixed to realty. Roberts v. Green Tree Fin. Corp. (In re Cassady), 197 B.R. 846, 1996 Bankr. LEXIS 772 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1996).

11. “Dependent-upon-Possession” Exception.

The “dependent-upon-possession” exception means liens depending upon possession for existence and not depending upon possession for perfection and the notation of a lien on the title of a motor vehicle is the exclusive method of perfecting that lien. In re Groves, 75 B.R. 227, 1987 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 6228 (M.D. Tenn. 1987).

12. Perfection of a Security Interest.

State law requires both filing and notation of a lien on an automobile title for perfection of a security interest, and if the filing does not lead to the notation of the lien on the title, perfection does not occur. In re Clark, 112 B.R. 226, 1990 Bankr. LEXIS 652 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1990).

A trustee in bankruptcy could not avoid, pursuant to 11 U.S.C. § 544, a creditor's security interest in a mobile home, where the lien had been created and perfected under T.C.A. § 47-9-101 et seq. by the time the debtor filed his petition in bankruptcy. Farmer v. Green Tree Serv. LLC (In re Snelson), 330 B.R. 643, 2005 Bankr. LEXIS 1851 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 2005).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Purpose of Section.

The purpose of the statute is to render invalid as to creditors of the owner any nonpossessory lien or encumbrance not noted on the certificate of title in accordance with this section. In re Crabtree, 39 B.R. 713, 1984 Bankr. LEXIS 6065 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1984).

2. Effect of Section.

The practical effect of this section is that the lienholder on a motor vehicle covered by the act has to have his lien recorded and noted on the certificate of title only in order to protect his lien against subsequent encumbrances. Personal Loan & Finance Corp. v. Guardian Discounty Co., 206 Tenn. 221, 332 S.W.2d 504, 1960 Tenn. LEXIS 362 (1960).

Under Tennessee law, no conditional sales contract or other lien or encumbrance upon a registered vehicle, other than a lien dependent upon possession, shall be valid against creditors of the owner unless the lien is noted on the certificate of title. In re Crosson, 226 F. Supp. 944, 1963 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 6982 (E.D. Tenn. 1963).

A mobile home that had its wheels removed and was affixed to realty was not “designed for travel upon the public highways” and hence was not a “mobile home” within the meaning of former § 55-1-105 and the provisions of this section concerning the recordation of liens did not apply. Associates Capital Corp. v. Cookeville Production Credit Asso., 569 S.W.2d 474, 1978 Tenn. App. LEXIS 296 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1978).

A security interest in a motor vehicle (other than inventory) is not enforceable against the trustee in bankruptcy unless the security interest is indicated on the outstanding certificate of title. In re Groves, 64 B.R. 329, 1986 Bankr. LEXIS 5451 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1986), aff'd, 75 B.R. 227, 1987 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 6228 (M.D. Tenn. 1987).

3. Exclusiveness of Procedure.

Perfection of security interest in motor vehicle may be effectuated only by notation of lien upon vehicle's certificate of title. In re Coors of Cumberland, Inc., 19 B.R. 313, 1982 Bankr. LEXIS 4416 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1982); Keep Fresh Filters v. Reguli, 888 S.W.2d 437, 1994 Tenn. App. LEXIS 503 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1994).

While subsection (b) outlines procedure to be followed in perfecting security interest in motor vehicle, motor vehicles still fall within purview of Uniform Commercial Code as enacted by state of Tennessee. In re Coors of Cumberland, Inc., 19 B.R. 313, 1982 Bankr. LEXIS 4416 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1982); Keep Fresh Filters v. Reguli, 888 S.W.2d 437, 1994 Tenn. App. LEXIS 503 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1994).

Sole purpose of requirement of subsection (b) is to give notice that secured party has interest in motor vehicle. In re Coors of Cumberland, Inc., 19 B.R. 313, 1982 Bankr. LEXIS 4416 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1982).

4. Constructive Notice of Lien.

This section means that filing and notation of lien on certificate of title is “constructive notice of all liens” except common law liens dependent upon possession. City Finance Co. v. Perry, 195 Tenn. 81, 257 S.W.2d 1, 1953 Tenn. LEXIS 304, 36 A.L.R.2d 224 (1953).

The filing and notation of the lien or encumbrance constitutes constructive notice to all persons of the existence of all liens or encumbrances from the time of receipt and filing of the request for notation except as to liens dependent upon possession. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp. v. Bank of Knoxville, 204 Tenn. 605, 324 S.W.2d 417, 1959 Tenn. LEXIS 316 (1959).

Where automobile dealer executed chattel mortgage to bank to secure note given to finance purchase of automobile, and bank forwarded notice of mortgage and note to department of motor vehicle title division where title certificate was issued with notation of lien and where dealer subsequently sold automobile and furnished notarized bill of sale with warranty against encumbrance, and purchaser executed retained title contract which was purchased by finance company, bank was entitled to possession of automobile as against claim of finance company made after purchaser elected to rescind contract because of failure of dealer to furnish title. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp. v. Bank of Knoxville, 204 Tenn. 605, 324 S.W.2d 417, 1959 Tenn. LEXIS 316 (1959).

The provision of subsection (b) making the methods provided in this section and § 55-3-125 of giving constructive notice of a lien upon a motor vehicle precludes the exclusion of a motor vehicle from the application of § 55-3-125, so as to permit the establishment of a lien not shown on the certificate of title, by failure to register the vehicle. In re Wallace, 251 F. Supp. 581, 1966 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 6912 (E.D. Tenn. 1966).

Constructive notice of a perfected lien relates back to the date of the filing of the application for notation of the lien; once a lien has been noted on the title, the date of the commencement of constructive notice is the date of the filing of the application for notation of the lien. In re Ridley, 50 B.R. 51, 1985 Bankr. LEXIS 6495 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1985).

5. Effective Date of Notice.

The effective date of the notice of the lien is the date when first received by the department of finance and taxation (now department of revenue) with the proper fee and not the date when the administrative work of filing within the department is completed. Personal Loan & Finance Corp. v. Guardian Discounty Co., 206 Tenn. 221, 332 S.W.2d 504, 1960 Tenn. LEXIS 362 (1960).

A lien on an automobile, once perfected, relates back to the date of the filing of the application for notation of the lien. In re Ridley, 50 B.R. 51, 1985 Bankr. LEXIS 6495 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1985).

6. Insufficient Notice.

The fact that the notarized bill of sale furnished by the seller showed on its face a lien of holder of conditional sale contract was not sufficient to give notice to creditors of bankrupt buyer of automobile. In re Crosson, 226 F. Supp. 944, 1963 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 6982 (E.D. Tenn. 1963); In re Custom Caps, Inc., 1 B.R. 99, 1979 Bankr. LEXIS 844 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1979).

Reliance upon the purchaser of a motor vehicle to apply for title with notation of lien thereupon does not override the strict mandate of subsection (b) with respect to the perfection of security interests in such vehicles. In re Krulik, 6 B.R. 443, 1980 Bankr. LEXIS 4654 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1980).

A security interest in a motor vehicle is perfected when the application is received by the motor vehicle division; mere submission of an application to the county clerk is not sufficient. In re Haynes, 28 B.R. 136, 1983 Bankr. LEXIS 6784 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1983), aff'd, 33 B.R. 118, 1983 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 15335 (M.D. Tenn. 1983).

7. Priority Between Liens.

Rights of party who properly had lien noted on certificate of title were superior to those of others who had loaned money on car but who had not complied with statute and who delayed sending lien notice to department. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp. v. Vaughn, 43 Tenn. App. 9, 305 S.W.2d 513, 1956 Tenn. App. LEXIS 148 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1956).

Where dealer took used car in trade and paid off lien and then sold the vehicle giving the purchaser a bill of sale upon execution of a title retention contract which contract was not registered, and the purchaser subsequently obtained the certificate of title from the original owner to whom the lienor had forwarded the certificate of title, dealer had not complied with statute and had no rights as against parties subsequently making loans on car. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp. v. Vaughn, 43 Tenn. App. 9, 305 S.W.2d 513, 1956 Tenn. App. LEXIS 148 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1956).

Notice of federal tax lien filed under §§ 66-21-201 — 66-21-205 against all property of taxpayer in county where property was situated had priority over chattel mortgage subsequently filed under Tennessee Motor Vehicle and Title Registration Law by finance company which took chattel mortgage on vehicle as security. Atlas Finance Co. v. Wilkerson, 214 Tenn. 619, 382 S.W.2d 529, 1964 Tenn. LEXIS 514 (1964).

Common law possessory lien of artisan who performed repair work on automobile transmission took priority over perfected security interest of finance company wherein finance company had complied with provisions of Motor Vehicle Title and Registration Law. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp. v. Gibson, 220 Tenn. 654, 422 S.W.2d 435, 1967 Tenn. LEXIS 448 (1967).

Under former § 47-9-310 claims arising for work intended to enhance or preserve the value of the collateral take priority over an earlier security interest even though perfected and even though the artisan's services or materials were furnished without knowledge or approval of the secured party. Manufacturers Acceptance Corp. v. Gibson, 220 Tenn. 654, 422 S.W.2d 435, 1967 Tenn. LEXIS 448 (1967).

A “mobile home” that has had its wheels removed and has been affixed to realty is not subject to the certificate of title provisions for motor vehicles under chapters 1 and 3 of this title and therefore plaintiff's security interest, which was noted on a certificate of title to the home and was perfected in accordance with those provisions could not take priority over defendant's real estate mortgage, which was created by a deed of trust properly recorded in accordance with state mortgage law and with former § 47-9-401. Associates Capital Corp. v. Cookeville Production Credit Asso., 569 S.W.2d 474, 1978 Tenn. App. LEXIS 296 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1978).

An application for notation of lien on the title to an automobile which was properly filed but subsequently lost due to error by the filing officials of the state of Tennessee did not perfect a security interest superior to a trustee in bankruptcy. Because Tennessee law required both filing and notation of the lien on an automobile title for perfection of a security interest, the trustee could defeat the putative lienor and sell the automobile free of the lien. In re York, 43 B.R. 36, 1984 Bankr. LEXIS 5018 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1984).

8. Dealer Inventory — Security Interest.

This section is not applicable to the used or trade-in inventory vehicles of a dealer and one claiming a security interest in such vehicles for floor-plan loans made to such dealer was not required to perfect such interest in the manner required herein. In re Vaughn, 283 F. Supp. 730, 1968 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 8460 (M.D. Tenn. 1968).

9. Request for Notation of Lien.

The Tennessee supreme court has treated an application for a certificate with a lien noted the same as a request for notation of a lien. In re Poteet, 5 B.R. 631, 1980 Bankr. LEXIS 4642 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1980).

No certificate can be issued or lien noted when the request is defective. In re Poteet, 5 B.R. 631, 1980 Bankr. LEXIS 4642 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1980).

10. Mobile Homes.

Security interests in mobile homes which complied with former T.C.A. § 47-9-302 rather than T.C.A. § 55-3-125 and this section were unperfected even though the mobile homes had been purchased for use in a motel business and had not been so occupied. In re Hughes, 58 B.R. 452, 1986 Bankr. LEXIS 6557 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1986).

If a title lien on a mobile home has been perfected pursuant to this section, no further filing is required under former T.C.A. § 47-9-306 to perfect the lien. Transouth Financial Corp. v. General Electric Capital Corp., 832 S.W.2d 568, 1992 Tenn. App. LEXIS 79 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1992).

Where a lender's security interest was perfected by notation of its lien on the certificate of title in accordance with the Tennessee Motor Vehicle Title and Registration Law, the lender was not required to change the manner of perfection after the mobile home was affixed to realty. Roberts v. Green Tree Fin. Corp. (In re Cassady), 197 B.R. 846, 1996 Bankr. LEXIS 772 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1996).

A trustee in bankruptcy could not avoid, pursuant to 11 U.S.C. § 544, a creditor's security interest in a mobile home, where the lien had been created and perfected under T.C.A. § 47-9-101 et seq. by the time the debtor filed his petition in bankruptcy. Farmer v. Green Tree Serv. LLC (In re Snelson), 330 B.R. 643, 2005 Bankr. LEXIS 1851 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 2005).

11. “Dependent-upon-Possession” Exception.

The “dependent-upon-possession” exception means liens depending upon possession for existence and not depending upon possession for perfection and the notation of a lien on the title of a motor vehicle is the exclusive method of perfecting that lien. In re Groves, 75 B.R. 227, 1987 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 6228 (M.D. Tenn. 1987).

12. Perfection of a Security Interest.

State law requires both filing and notation of a lien on an automobile title for perfection of a security interest, and if the filing does not lead to the notation of the lien on the title, perfection does not occur. In re Clark, 112 B.R. 226, 1990 Bankr. LEXIS 652 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1990).

Bank's interest was perfected when the application for a title showing the bank's lien was lodged with the county clerk. General Motors Acceptance Corp. v. Third Nat'l Bank, 812 S.W.2d 593, 1991 Tenn. App. LEXIS 121 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1991).

The enactment of T.C.A. § 55-3-137 (see now T.C.A. § 55-3-126) did not change the Tennessee procedure for perfection of a motor vehicle lien from a “notation” to a “delivery” system. That is, a security interest is not perfected until a notation of the lien is made on the certificate of title and, when such notation is made, the date of perfection dates from the time of delivery to the county clerk; further, if the date of delivery which leads to the notation is within 20 days of the date on which the security interest arose, the date of perfection is deemed the date on which the interest was created. Still v. First State Bank, 900 S.W.2d 282, 1995 Tenn. LEXIS 308 (Tenn. 1995), superseded by statute as stated in, Schulman v. Ford Motor Credit Co. (In re Leach), 206 B.R. 903, 1997 Bankr. LEXIS 321 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1997), superseded by statute as stated in, Fitzpatrick v. Toyota Motor Credit Corp. (In re Hartline), — B.R. —, 2009 Bankr. LEXIS 2907 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. Sept. 9, 2009); Roberts v. Green Tree Fin. Corp. (In re Cassady), 197 B.R. 846, 1996 Bankr. LEXIS 772 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 1996).

An automobile financing company failed to perfect a security interest in a vehicle where it unintentionally listed the name of a competitor, rather than its own name, as first lienholder on the certificate of title. Schulman v. Ford Motor Credit Co. (In re Leach), 206 B.R. 903, 1997 Bankr. LEXIS 321 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1997).

While under T.C.A. § 55-3-114(c), a prior lienor had a duty to release the certificate of title to the refinancing creditor upon request by the creditor, it was ultimately the creditor's responsibility to get the title from the prior lienor or to obtain a duplicate title, as it eventually did, more than two years after the fact; the creditor's security interest, perfected after the debtor filed bankruptcy, was avoidable by the debtor's Chapter 7 trustee under 11 U.S.C. § 544, and former T.C.A. § 47-9-301, the creditor was not perfected under T.C.A. § 55-3-126, the creditor's security interest was void as in violation of the automatic stay of 11 U.S.C. § 362(a)(4), and the trustee was entitled to turnover under 11 U.S.C. § 542 of insurance proceeds paid to the creditor by an insurance company. Farmer v. LaSalle Bank (In re Morgan), 291 B.R. 795, 2003 Bankr. LEXIS 327 (Bankr. E.D. Tenn. 2003).

Where the application for noting a lien on the certificate of title was filed two days before the title to the vehicle was issued and where the certificate of title bore the name of the owner and listed the bank as the first lienholder, the certificate of title was perfected pursuant to the requirements of T.C.A. § 55-3-126(b)(1). Regions Bank v. Bric Constructors, LLC, 380 S.W.3d 740, 2011 Tenn. App. LEXIS 668 (Tenn. Ct. App. Dec. 13, 2011), rehearing denied, — S.W.3d —, 2012 Tenn. App. LEXIS 211 (Tenn. Ct. App. Mar. 30, 2012).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Breach of Warranty of Title.

Automobile dealer's violation of this section by failure to deliver certificate to transferee of automobile under conditional sale constituted breach of implied warranty under the former Uniform Sales Act (now Uniform Commercial Code, § 47-1-101 et seq.) that dealer had the right to sell the automobile and entitled purchaser to rescind the contract. White v. Mid-City Motor Co., 39 Tenn. App. 429, 284 S.W.2d 689, 1955 Tenn. App. LEXIS 80 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1955).

2. Effect of Failure to Transfer Title.

Failure of the seller to endorse and deliver to the buyer the certificate of title did not prevent ownership of the vehicle from passing to the buyer, the certificate being merely evidence of ownership. Garrett v. American Mut. Liability Ins. Co., 261 F. Supp. 161, 1966 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 9598 (E.D. Tenn. 1966).

55-3-201. Part definitions.

As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. “Automotive dismantler and recycler” means a person who engages in the business of acquiring salvage vehicles for the purpose of recovering parts for resale;
2. “Flood vehicle” means any passenger motor vehicle which has sustained substantial water damage as determined by departmental rules and regulations. Disclosure that a passenger motor vehicle has become a flood vehicle shall be made at the time of transfer of ownership, and the next certificate of title issued after the transfer shall be conspicuously labeled with the word “Flood” across the front;
3. “Methamphetamine vehicle” means any motor vehicle subject to registration and certificate of title provisions that has been impounded by a law enforcement agency based on a charge of manufacture of methamphetamine on or within the vehicle and determined to be contaminated pursuant to the standards developed pursuant to title 68, chapter 212, part 5, and for which the department has received a notice of motor vehicle impoundment for manufacture of methamphetamine pursuant to § 55-3-210. Disclosure that a motor vehicle has become a methamphetamine vehicle shall be made upon the department's receipt of such notice by issuance of a new certificate of title conspicuously labeled with the language “Methamphetamine Vehicle” across the front. Upon any subsequent transfer of ownership, the next certificate of title issued after the transfer shall be conspicuously labeled with the language “Methamphetamine Vehicle” across the front;
4. “Nonrepairable vehicle” means any passenger motor vehicle which is incapable of safe operation for use on roads or highways and which has no resale value except as a source of parts or scrap only or which the owner irreversibly designates as a source of parts or scrap. “Nonrepairable vehicle” includes, but is not limited to, any passenger motor vehicle which has sustained salt water damage as a result of salt water entering the passenger compartment. A nonrepairable vehicle shall be issued a nonrepairable vehicle certificate and shall never again be titled or registered;
5. “Nonrepairable vehicle certificate” means a passenger motor vehicle ownership document issued by the state to the owner of a nonrepairable vehicle. Ownership of the passenger motor vehicle may only be transferred two (2) times on a nonrepairable vehicle certificate. A passenger motor vehicle for which a nonrepairable vehicle certificate has been issued can never be titled or registered for use on roads or highways. A nonrepairable vehicle certificate shall be conspicuously labeled with the word “Nonrepairable” across the front;
6. “Passenger motor vehicle” means any vehicle driven or drawn by mechanical power manufactured primarily for use on the public streets, roads and highways that is ten (10) model years old or less, including a multipurpose passenger vehicle or light duty truck when that vehicle or truck is rated at not more than nine thousand pounds (9,000 lbs.) gross vehicle weight; “passenger motor vehicle” also includes a motorcycle, as defined in § 55-1-103;
7. “Rebuilt title” means the passenger motor vehicle ownership document issued by the state to the owner of a rebuilt vehicle. Ownership of the passenger motor vehicle may be transferred on a rebuilt title, and a passenger motor vehicle for which a rebuilt title has been issued may be registered for use on the roads and highways. A rebuilt title shall be conspicuously labeled with the words “Rebuilt Vehicle — Anti-theft Inspections Passed” across the front;
8. “Rebuilt vehicle” means any passenger motor vehicle which was previously issued a salvage title; has passed state anti-theft inspections; was issued an affidavit pursuant to § 55-3-206 that the passenger motor vehicle was rebuilt to required standards; has been issued a certificate indicating that the passenger motor vehicle has passed the required anti-theft inspections; and has a decal stating “Rebuilt Vehicle — Anti-theft Inspections Passed” affixed to the driver's door jamb;
9. “Salvage pool operator” means a person who engages in the business of selling salvage vehicles at auction, including wholesale auction, or otherwise;
10. “Salvage title” means a passenger motor vehicle ownership document issued by the state to the owner of a salvage vehicle. Ownership of the passenger motor vehicle may be transferred on a salvage title; however, a passenger motor vehicle for which a salvage title has been issued shall not be registered for use on the roads or highways unless it has been issued a rebuilt title. A salvage title shall be conspicuously labeled with the word “Salvage” across the front;
11. 1. “Salvage vehicle” means any passenger motor vehicle which has been wrecked, destroyed, or damaged to the extent that the total estimated or actual cost of parts and labor to rebuild or reconstruct the passenger motor vehicle to its pre-accident condition and for legal operation on the roads or highways exceeds seventy-five percent (75%) of the retail value of the passenger motor vehicle, as set forth in a current edition of any nationally recognized compilation (to include automated databases) of retail values;
    2. The value of repair parts for purposes of this subdivision (11) shall be determined by using the current published retail cost of the repair parts to be used in the repair, or in the absence of a published retail cost the reasonable and customary cost in the community where repair parts are purchased;
    3. The labor cost of repairs for purposes of this subdivision (11) shall be computed by using the hourly labor rate and time allocations that are reasonable and customary in the automobile repair industry in the community where the repairs are performed;
    4. “Salvage vehicle” also includes, without regard to whether such passenger motor vehicle meets the seventy-five percent (75%) threshold specified in the first sentence, any passenger motor vehicle whose owner may wish to designate as a salvage vehicle by obtaining a salvage title, without regard to the extent of the passenger motor vehicle's damage and repairs. This designation by the owner shall not impose on the insurer of the passenger motor vehicle or on an insurer processing a claim made by or on behalf of the owner of the passenger motor vehicle any obligations or liabilities; and
12. “Scrap metal processor” means any person who is engaged in the business of buying nonrepairable vehicles, automotive parts, or other metallic material by weight to process this material into scrap metal for remelting purposes; which utilizes machinery and equipment for processing ferrous and nonferrous metallic scrap into prepared grades; and whose principal product is metallic scrap.

Acts 1996, ch. 552, § 3; 1996, ch. 839, § 3; 2007, ch. 484, § 32; 2011, ch. 397, §§ 1, 2; 2016, ch. 691, § 1; T.C.A. § 55-3-211; Acts 2020, ch. 675, § 2.

Compiler's Notes.  Former title 55, chapter 3, part 2, T.C.A. §§ 55-3-201 — 55-3-213, was reorganized  in 2017. See the following parallel reference table for the former and new locations.

Former Sections  New Sections

55-3-201 55-3-202

55-3-202 55-3-203

55-3-203 55-3-204

55-3-204 — 55-3-206 [Reserved]  [Deleted]

55-3-207  55-3-205

55-3-208  55-3-206

55-3-209  55-3-207

55-3-210  55-3-208

55-3-211  55-3-201

55-3-212  55-3-209

55-3-213  55-3-210

This section was renumbered from § 55-3-211 to § 55-3-201 as part of the reorganization of the part by authority of the Code Commission in 2017.

Acts 1996, ch. 552, which enacted this section and § 55-3-209 and amended other sections in this title, may be cited as the “Motor Vehicle Anti-Theft, Title Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 1996.”

Acts 1996, ch. 839, § 4 provides “It is the legislative intent of the General Assembly that Chapter 552 of the Public Acts of 1996 shall be applied prospectively and that the provisions of such chapter shall not be construed to create any new causes of action for acts that were in compliance with the prior provisions of law.” The act contained no effective date for § 4, and that section is deemed to have taken effect May 10, 1996.

Acts 2011, ch. 397, § 4 provided that the commissioner of revenue is authorized to promulgate rules to effectuate the purposes of the act, including, but not limited to, rules to provide a motor vehicle owner an opportunity for a hearing on the issue of whether the certificate of title for such vehicle should be labeled, or should continue to be labeled, as a methamphetamine vehicle. All such rules shall be promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5.

Acts 2011, ch. 397, § 5 provided that the act, which amended the introductory language and added the definition of “methamphetamine vehicle”, shall apply to all applicable offenses committed on or after July 1, 2011.

Acts 2016, ch. 691, § 2 provided that the act, which amended the definition of “Passenger motor vehicle”, shall apply to applicable titles issued on or after March 24, 2016.

Amendments. The 2020 amendment added the definitions of “automotive dismantler and recycler” and “salvage pool operator”.

Effective Dates. Acts 2020, ch. 675, § 3. October 1, 2020; provided that for purposes of promulgating rules, the act took effect June 15, 2020.

55-3-202. Owner dismantling or wrecking vehicle to return evidences of title — Rebuilt motor vehicles — Application for new certificate of title.

1. Any owner dismantling or wrecking any registered vehicle shall immediately forward to the department the certificate of title issued to the owner for the vehicle, but may retain the certificate of registration and registration plates for the purpose of transferring the certificate of registration and registration plates to any other motor vehicle as provided in § 55-4-101.
2. Any person, who has rebuilt a motor vehicle for which the certificate of title or other ownership documents have been surrendered and a salvage title, flood title, or nonrepairable vehicle certificate has been issued in accordance with the rules promulgated by the department, prior to the sale of the vehicle to another, shall make application to the local county clerk or directly to the department for a new certificate of title. The application for certificate of title shall be supported by the salvage title and evidence of ownership and reconstruction satisfactory to the commissioner. The person rebuilding or having a motor vehicle rebuilt may apply for a certificate of title.

Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 56 (Williams, § 5538.156); Acts 1953, ch. 167, § 10; impl. am. Acts 1978, ch. 934, §§ 22, 36; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-329; Acts 1987, ch. 443, § 2; T.C.A., § 55-3-128; Acts 2006, ch. 517, § 2; 2007, ch. 484, § 29; 2008, ch. 1007, § 1; T.C.A. 55-3-201.

Compiler's Notes. This section was renumbered from § 55-3-201 to § 55-3-202 as part of the reorganization of the part by authority of the Code Commission in 2017. See the parallel reference table in § 55-3-201 for the full disposition of sections.

For transfer of the division of title and registration to the department of revenue, see Executive Order No. 36, effective July 1, 2006 (April 19, 2006).

Cross-References. Rebuilt or reconstructed motor vehicles, certificates of title, permits, inspections, §§ 55-3-206, 55-3-207.

55-3-203. Records of motor vehicle dismantler and recycler or scrap metal processor — Requirements — Violations and penalties.

1. 1. Any motor vehicle dismantler and recycler required to be licensed pursuant to § 55-17-109 or scrap metal processor as defined in § 55-3-201, who purchases motor vehicles for parts, dismantling, or scrap, shall, notwithstanding the requirements of title 62, chapter 9, be governed by this section with respect to those purchases, and shall maintain a record for three (3) years, in the form the commissioner prescribes, of every vehicle bought, sold, dismantled, exchanged, or received by the motor vehicle dismantler and recycler or scrap metal processor.
   2. The purchasing motor vehicle dismantler and recycler or scrap metal processor shall also require the seller of the vehicle to provide proof of ownership by providing a properly endorsed vehicle title. The title provided shall be securely maintained for each vehicle purchased, shall become a part of the record maintained pursuant to subdivision (a)(1), and shall be cancelled by the department of revenue pursuant to subdivision (h)(2).
2. 1. 1. Notwithstanding this title to the contrary, any motor vehicle dismantler and recycler or scrap metal processor, who purchases a motor vehicle that is twelve (12) years or older solely for parts, dismantling, or scrap, may purchase the motor vehicle without seeing and obtaining the title to the vehicle if the motor vehicle dismantler and recycler or scrap metal processor does not dismantle, crush, or shred the vehicle for a period of three (3) business days, including the date of purchase, and if the following information is obtained by the buyer and maintained as a part of the record required by subdivision (a)(1):
         1. The name, address, and National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) identification number of the motor vehicle dismantler and recycler or scrap metal processor;
         2. The name, initials, or other identification of the individual entering the information;
         3. The date of the transaction;
         4. A description of the motor vehicle, including the make and model to the extent practicable;
         5. The vehicle identification number (VIN) of the vehicle to the extent practicable;
         6. The license plate number of any vehicle transporting the motor vehicle being sold;
         7. The amount of consideration given for the vehicle;
         8. A written statement signed by the seller, and the seller's agent, if applicable:
            1. Certifying that the seller, and the seller's agent, if applicable, have the lawful right to sell the motor vehicle;
            2. Certifying that the vehicle is not subject to any security interest or lien;
            3. Acknowledging that a person who falsifies any information contained in the written statement is subject to criminal sanctions and restitution for losses incurred as a result of the sale of a vehicle based on falsified information contained in the statement; and
            4. Certifying that the vehicle shall never be titled again and shall be dismantled or destroyed;
         9. The name, address, and the right thumbprint impression of the person from whom the vehicle is being purchased. However, if taking the right thumbprint is not possible, the left thumbprint or another fingerprint impression shall suffice;
         10. A photocopy or electronic scan of a valid driver license of the seller, and the seller's agent, if applicable, of the motor vehicle, or in lieu of the photocopy or scan of the valid driver license, any other identification card containing a photograph of the seller as issued by any state or federal agency of the United States. If the buyer has a copy of the seller's photo identification on file, the buyer may reference the photo identification on file without making a separate photocopy for each transaction; and
         11. Proof confirming that the motor vehicle dismantler and recycler or scrap metal processor has reported the vehicle to the department of revenue in accordance with subsection (c) within twenty-four (24) hours, not counting weekends or legal holidays, of the close of business of the day the vehicle was received.
      2. If the seller does not provide the motor vehicle title or provide the information prescribed in subdivision (b)(1)(A), the motor vehicle dismantler and recycler or scrap metal processor shall not complete the transaction.
   2. The general assembly intends by this subsection (b) to occupy and preempt the entire field of legislation related to the age of the vehicle which a motor vehicle dismantler and recycler or scrap metal processor may purchase without seeing and obtaining the title to the vehicle and the three-day waiting period prior to dismantling, crushing, or shredding the vehicle when a title is not provided to the dismantler or recycler in accordance with subdivision (b)(1)(A).
3. Any motor vehicle dismantler and recycler required to be licensed pursuant to § 55-17-109 or scrap metal processor as defined in § 55-3-201, who purchases a vehicle for scrap or parts, shall submit to the department of revenue any information in a format as is necessary to satisfy the requirement for reporting information to the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) in accordance with rules adopted by the United States department of justice in 28 CFR 25.56, within twenty-four (24) hours, not counting weekends or legal holidays, of the close of business of the day the vehicle was received. The department shall report such information to NMVTIS on behalf of the motor vehicle dismantler and recycler or scrap metal processor.
4. 1. It is a Class A misdemeanor, subject to a minimum fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000), for any person to:
      1. Knowingly violate this section;
      2. Knowingly fail to report as required under subsection (c);
      3. Falsify the statement required under subsection (b);
      4. Knowingly falsify the certification required under subsection (g); or
      5. Knowingly sell a vehicle which is the subject of any security interest or lien.
   2. Actions to impose the penalties under this subsection (d) may be brought by any local or state law enforcement agency, district attorney, or by the attorney general and reporter in any court of competent jurisdiction.
   3. 1. One-half (½) of the monies generated from the penalties under this subsection (d) shall be deposited in the general fund.
      2. The remaining one-half (½) of the monies generated from the penalties under this subsection (d) shall be deposited:
         1. In the general fund of the municipality if the suit was brought in a municipal court;
         2. In the general fund of the county if the suit was brought in the court of a county; or
         3. To the appropriate state law enforcement agency, if the suit was brought by any county, state, or municipal law enforcement agency.
   4. Monies generated from the penalties under this subsection (d) shall be used only for the enforcement, investigation, prosecution, and training related to violations of this section, auto thefts, or motor vehicle related crimes.
   5. A court of competent jurisdiction shall also order a seller under this section to make restitution to the owner or lienholder, and to the motor vehicle dismantler and recycler or scrap metal processor, for any damage or loss caused by the seller arising out of an offense committed by the seller, including attorney's fees.
5. Any motor vehicle used to transport a motor vehicle illegally sold under this section shall be subject to seizure and forfeiture by any law enforcement officer authorized to effectuate an arrest. The seizure and forfeiture shall be conducted in accordance with the procedure set out in title 40, chapter 33, part 1.
6. The records required to be maintained by this section shall be open to inspection by a representative of the commissioner's office or a law enforcement officer, or both, during reasonable business hours.
7. As used in this section, “motor vehicle” or “vehicle” does not include motor vehicles or vehicles that have been reported to the NMVTIS and have been flattened, crushed, baled, or logged, such that the motor vehicle or vehicle is less than fifty percent (50%) of its original volume, is no longer the motor vehicle as described by the certificate of title, and is sold for purposes of scrap metal only. The seller of the material shall certify to the scrap metal processor purchasing the material that all vehicles crushed in this manner and included in the sale have been properly reported to the department of revenue or the NMVTIS.
8. 1. The department of revenue shall verify within twenty-four (24) hours of receipt of the information reported pursuant to subsection (c) whether or not the motor vehicle reported pursuant to subsection (c) has been reported stolen. The department of revenue may develop a method to allow a person subject to this section to verify at the time of the transaction, through the use of the internet, at no cost, that the vehicle has not been reported stolen, and that also allows for the department of revenue's response to be printed and retained by the person making the request. Within ninety (90) days of the development of such system, its use by any motor vehicle dismantler and recycler required to be licensed pursuant to § 55-17-109 or scrap metal processor as defined in § 55-3-201, who purchases a vehicle for scrap or parts, shall become mandatory. One (1) of the following shall apply following the department of revenue's response:
      1. If the department of revenue confirms that the motor vehicle has been reported stolen, the motor vehicle dismantler and recycler or scrap metal processor shall notify the appropriate local law enforcement agency of the current location of the vehicle and the identifying information of the person selling the vehicle; or
      2. If the department of revenue confirms that the motor vehicle has not been stolen, the motor vehicle dismantler and recycler or scrap metal processor may proceed with the transaction and shall not be held criminally or civilly liable if the motor vehicle later turns out to be a stolen vehicle, unless the motor vehicle dismantler and recycler or scrap metal processor had knowledge that the motor vehicle was a stolen vehicle or failed to comply with the requirements of subsection (a) or (b).
   2. The department of revenue shall enter a cancellation on the title record for the motor vehicle.
   3. If the department of revenue has not received information from a federal, state, or local department or independent source that a vehicle has been reported as stolen it will continue to check against the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) for a period of thirty (30) days. If the vehicle is not reported as stolen, any person damaged shall not have a cause of action against the department of revenue's vehicle services division.
   4. The department of revenue is authorized to comply with some or all of its responsibilities in this section through a contract with a United States department of justice approved third-party data consolidator, pursuant to 28 CFR Part 25.

Acts 1951, ch. 70, § 57 (Williams, § 5538.157); Acts 1959, ch. 250, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 59-330, 55-3-129; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 1996, ch. 552, § 10; 2006, ch. 517, § 3; 2008, ch. 1026, § 1; 2012, ch. 684, § 1; 2015, ch. 466, § 1; T.C.A. 55-3-202.

Compiler's Notes. This section was renumbered from § 55-3-202 to § 55-3-203 as part of the reorganization of the part by authority of the Code Commission in 2017. See the parallel reference table in § 55-3-201 for the full disposition of sections.

For transfer of auto salvage and auto theft enforcement from the department of revenue to the department of safety, see Executive Order No. 50 (April 14, 1983).

Acts 1996, ch. 552, which amended this section, may be cited as the “Motor Vehicle Anti-Theft, Title Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 1996.”

Acts 2015, ch. 466, §  2 provided that for purposes of subsection (i) in section 1 of the act, which rewrites the section effective July 1, 2016, the act shall take effect July 1, 2015. Subsection (i) of section 1 was added as (g) in the version of the section effective until July 1, 2016, and appears as subsection (i) in the version effective on July 1, 2016.

Subsection (i), which expired effective June 30, 2017, read as follows:

“(i)(1)  In addition to any other fees required by this title or title 62, chapter 9, each motor vehicle dismantler and recycler required to be licensed pursuant to § 55-17-109 shall pay a biennial fee of five hundred dollars ($500) to the Tennessee motor vehicle commission accompanying each application for licensure or renewal of a motor vehicle dismantler and recycler license. Prior to the close of each fiscal year, all fees collected pursuant to this subsection (i), less any expenses associated with the collection and processing of such payments by the Tennessee motor vehicle commission, which shall be retained by the Tennessee motor vehicle commission to pay for the receipt and administration of this fee, including payment of any administrative cost back to the regulatory boards division, shall be transferred to the general fund for the implementation and administration of the reporting systems required to comply with this section.

“(2)  This subsection (i) shall expire as of June 30, 2017, and be of no force or effect after June 30, 2017.”

Cross-References. Penalty for Class A misdemeanor, § 40-35-111.

55-3-204. Motor vehicle dealer’s license not required for person to sell motor vehicles to automotive dismantlers and recyclers or scrap metal dealers or processors.

A motor vehicle dealer's license shall not be required for a person to sell motor vehicles to licensed automotive dismantlers and recyclers, as defined in § 55-17-102, or to registered scrap metal dealers or scrap metal processors, if:

1. The motor vehicle has been designated by the seller as a nonrepairable vehicle, whether or not such vehicle has been issued a nonrepairable vehicle certificate; and
2. The motor vehicle is being sold solely for recycling, dismantling, or scrap.

Acts 2016, ch. 904, § 1; T.C.A. § 55-3-203.

Compiler's Notes. This section was renumbered from § 55-3-203 to § 55-3-204 as part of the reorganization of the part by authority of the Code Commission in 2017. See the parallel reference table in § 55-3-201 for the full disposition of sections.

55-3-205. Rebuilt motor vehicles — Applications for certificate of title and registration.

1. The department is authorized to accept applications for rebuilt certificates of title that are supported by a salvage title and other evidence of reconstruction as is required, without the applicant first submitting this evidence through one (1) of the county clerks. In these instances, there shall be an additional five-dollar  issuance fee charged for processing.
2. Persons applying for both a certificate of title and registration must do so through the appropriate county clerk.

Acts 1987, ch. 443, § 5; T.C.A., § 55-3-134; Acts 1996, ch. 552, § 7; 2007, ch. 484, § 30; T.C.A. § 55-3-207.

Compiler's Notes. This section was renumbered from § 55-3-207 to § 55-3-205 as part of the reorganization of the part by authority of the Code Commission in 2017. See the parallel reference table in § 55-3-201 for the full disposition of sections.

Acts 1996, ch. 552, which amended this section, may be cited as the “Motor Vehicle Anti-Theft, Title Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 1996.”

Cross-References. Rebuilt or reconstructed motor vehicles, certificates of title, permits, inspections, §§ 55-3-120, 55-3-202, 55-3-206, 55-3-207.

55-3-206. Rebuilt motor vehicles — Inspections — Certification.

1. Prior to the issuance of a rebuilt certificate of title for a vehicle on which a salvage title has been issued, a representative of the department shall inspect the vehicle at a place and time to be designated by the commissioner. The person inspecting the vehicle shall certify the identity of the vehicle. The inspection shall include bills of sale, identification of source of parts used, and an affidavit by the applicant that the vehicle has been repaired in accordance with manufacturer's requirements and department rules. The commissioner, for good cause shown, may waive the inspection requirement for any given vehicle or particular class of vehicle. The commissioner, if the commissioner determines that a vehicle inspection is unsatisfactory or that the requirements of this section have not been met, shall refuse to issue a certificate of title of any kind on such motor vehicle.
2. The commissioner, or representative of the department, shall have all powers and authority granted under § 55-5-108(a) to inspect at any time during regular business hours any vehicle for which a permit to dismantle has been issued under this section and §§ 55-3-120(c), 55-3-202(b), 55-3-205 and 55-3-207 in order to determine the source of the vehicle and parts.
3. 1. In addition to  the fee required by § 55-3-205, the commissioner shall charge a reasonable fee not to exceed seventy-five dollars ($75.00) for each conversion of a vehicle salvage document to a rebuilt title in an amount calculated to cover the cost of adequate staffing and other operation costs of a program to enforce the motor vehicle title and salvage laws and anti-theft inspection of rebuilt vehicles.
   2. There shall be a unit established called the anti-theft unit whose primary function shall be as outlined in subdivision (c)(1).
   3. Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, all moneys collected pursuant to this subsection (c) shall be deposited in the state general fund and credited to a separate account for the cost of operating this program.
   4. Disbursements from this account shall be made solely for the purpose of defraying expenses incurred in the implementation and enforcement of the program.
   5. None of these expenses shall be paid from any other state funds.
   6. Funds remaining in the account at the end of any fiscal year shall not revert to the general fund but shall remain available for expenditure in accordance with law.

Acts 1987, ch. 443, § 6; T.C.A., § 55-3-135; Acts 1991, ch. 361, §§ 1, 2; 1996, ch. 552, § 5; 1996, ch. 839, § 3; 2005, ch. 130, § 1; 2007, ch. 484, § 31; T.C.A. § 55-3-208.

Compiler's Notes. This section was renumbered from § 55-3-208 to § 55-3-206 as part of the reorganization of the part by authority of the Code Commission in 2017. See the parallel reference table in § 55-3-201 for the full disposition of sections.

Acts 1996, ch. 552, which amended this section, may be cited as the “Motor Vehicle Anti-Theft, Title Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 1996.”

Cross-References. Rebuilt motor vehicles, vehicles reconstructed out of state, § 55-3-207.

55-3-207. Rebuilt motor vehicles — Vehicles reconstructed out of state.

Sections 55-3-120(c), 55-3-201, 55-3-202(b), 55-3-205, 55-3-206, and 55-3-209, apply equally to vehicles reconstructed out of state and sought to be titled in this state.

Acts 1987, ch. 443, § 6; T.C.A., § 55-3-136; Acts 1996, ch. 552, § 11; T.C.A. § 55-3-209.

Compiler's Notes. This section was renumbered from § 55-3-209 to § 55-3-207 as part of the reorganization of the part by authority of the Code Commission in 2017. See the parallel reference table in § 55-3-201 for the full disposition of sections.

Acts 1996, ch. 552, which amended this section, may be cited as the “Motor Vehicle Anti-Theft, Title Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 1996.”

55-3-208. Water damaged motor vehicles — Certificate of title.

There shall be a brand affixed to a certificate of title issued by the department for a motor vehicle which has sustained substantial water damage.

Acts 1989, ch. 377, § 2; T.C.A. § 55-3-210.

Compiler's Notes. This section was renumbered from § 55-3-210 to § 55-3-208 as part of the reorganization of the part by authority of the Code Commission in 2017. See the parallel reference table in § 55-3-201 for the full disposition of sections.

55-3-209. Disclosure of motor vehicle's previous titling as “salvage” — Written notice to buyer.

1. For any passenger motor vehicle, the ownership of which is transferred on or after October 1, 1996, the department shall disclose in writing on the certificate of title whenever records readily accessible to the state indicate that the passenger motor vehicle was previously issued a title that bore any word or symbol signifying that the vehicle was “salvage,” “unrebuildable,” “parts only,” “scrap,” “junk,” “nonrepairable,” “reconstructed,” “rebuilt,” or any other symbol or word of like kind, or that it has been damaged by flood.
2. 1. The department shall indicate on the face of the title or certificate for a passenger motor vehicle, as applicable, if the passenger motor vehicle is a salvage vehicle, a nonrepairable vehicle, a rebuilt vehicle, or a flood vehicle.
   2. Information concerning a passenger motor vehicle's status as a salvage, nonrepairable, rebuilt, or flood vehicle shall also be conveyed on any subsequent title, including a duplicate or replacement title, for the passenger motor vehicle issued by the original titling state or any other state.
   3. The title documents, the rebuilt anti-theft inspection certificate, the decal stating “Rebuilt Vehicle — Anti-theft Inspections Passed,” and the issuing system shall meet security standards minimizing the opportunities for fraud.
   4. The certificate of title shall include the passenger motor vehicle make, model, body type, year, odometer disclosure, and vehicle identification number.
   5. A passenger motor vehicle designated as nonrepairable shall be issued a nonrepairable vehicle certificate and shall not be retitled.
   6. 1. A passenger motor vehicle owner submitting a vehicle for an anti-theft inspection shall be required to provide a completed document identifying the vehicle's damage prior to being repaired, a list of replacement parts used to repair the vehicle, and proof of ownership of the replacement parts, as may be evidenced by bills of sale, invoices or, if these documents are not available, other proof of ownership for the replacement parts. The owner shall submit in writing under penalty of perjury that the information in the declaration is complete and accurate, and, to the best of the owner's knowledge, no stolen parts were used during the construction or reconstruction of the motor vehicle.
      2. Any passenger motor vehicle or any major part or major replacement part required to be marked under 49 U.S.C. § 33102 of the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act having a mark or vehicle identification number that has been illegally altered, defaced, or falsified, and that cannot be identified as having been legally obtained through bills of sale, invoices, or other ownership documentation, shall be contraband and subject to seizure.
   7. No duplicate or replacement title shall be issued unless the word “duplicate” is clearly marked on its face.
   8. 1. If an insurance company is not involved in a damage settlement involving a salvage vehicle or a nonrepairable vehicle, the passenger motor vehicle owner must apply for a salvage title or nonrepairable vehicle certificate, whichever is applicable, before the passenger motor vehicle is repaired or the ownership of the passenger motor vehicle is transferred, but in any event within thirty (30) days after the passenger motor vehicle is damaged.
      2. 1. If an insurance company, pursuant to a damage settlement, acquires ownership of a passenger motor vehicle that has incurred damage requiring the vehicle to be titled as a salvage vehicle, nonrepairable vehicle, or flood vehicle, the insurance company either must notify the department electronically or on documents prescribed by the department for purposes of evidencing the insurance company in the ownership chain of title or, alternatively, must apply for a salvage title or nonrepairable vehicle certificate within fifteen (15) days after the title is properly assigned by the owner to the insurance company, and delivered to the insurance company with all liens released.
         2. Notwithstanding this or any other law to the contrary, if an insurance company acquires ownership of a passenger motor vehicle under the circumstances described in this subdivision (b)(8) and then sells the vehicle, then these transactions shall be exempt from sales and use tax liability to the same extent the transactions were exempt from such liability prior to October 1, 1996. If the vehicle does not meet or exceed the definition of a “salvage vehicle,” “nonrepairable vehicle” or “flood vehicle,” the insurance company is authorized to endorse change in ownership on the certificate of title as follows:
            1. With regard to a motor vehicle that is sold “as is” without repairs, change in ownership may be endorsed on the certificate of title without:
               1. Obtaining a new certificate of title; or
               2. Registering with the department for sales and use tax purposes; and
            2. With regard to a motor vehicle which is sold after repair, the insurance company must first obtain a certificate of title in its name, unless the transfer is to a licensed dealer or to the insured, in which cases the procedure set forth in subdivision (1) shall apply.
      3. If an insurance company does not assume ownership of its insured's passenger motor vehicle that has incurred damage requiring the vehicle to be titled as a salvage vehicle or nonrepairable vehicle, the insurance company shall:
         1. Notify the insured of the insured's obligation to apply for a salvage title or nonrepairable vehicle certificate for the passenger motor vehicle and notify the department that a salvage title or nonrepairable vehicle certificate should be issued for the vehicle; or
         2. Withhold payment of the claim until the insured applies for a salvage title or nonrepairable vehicle certificate.
      4. If a leased passenger motor vehicle incurs damage requiring the vehicle to be titled as a salvage vehicle or nonrepairable vehicle, the lessor must apply for a salvage title or nonrepairable vehicle certificate within twenty-one (21) days after being notified by the lessee that the vehicle has been so damaged. The lessee of the vehicle shall inform the lessor that the leased vehicle has been so damaged within thirty (30) days after the occurrence of the damage.
      5. Any person acquiring ownership of a damaged passenger motor vehicle that meets the definition of a salvage or nonrepairable vehicle for which a salvage title or nonrepairable vehicle certificate has not been issued must apply for a salvage title or nonrepairable vehicle certificate, whichever is applicable. This application must be made before the vehicle is further transferred, but in any event, within thirty (30) days after ownership is acquired. This subdivision (b)(8)(E) shall not apply to a scrap metal processor that acquires a nonrepairable vehicle for the sole purpose of processing it into prepared grades of metallic scrap.
      6. No nonrepairable vehicle certificate shall be issued after two (2) transfers of ownership.
      7. 1. When a passenger motor vehicle has been flattened, baled, or shredded, whichever comes first, the title or nonrepairable vehicle certificate for the vehicle shall be surrendered to the state within thirty (30) days.
         2. If the second transferee on a nonrepairable vehicle certificate is unequipped to flatten, bale or shred the vehicle, this second transferee must, at the time of final disposal of the vehicle, use the services of a professional automotive recycler properly licensed by the state or a scrap metal processor who is hereby authorized to flatten, bale or shred the vehicle and to effect the surrender of the nonrepairable vehicle certificate to the state on behalf of the second transferee.
         3. Records shall be updated to indicate the destruction of this vehicle and no further ownership transactions for the vehicle will be permitted.
         4. If Tennessee is not the state of origin of the title or nonrepairable vehicle certificate, then the department shall notify the state of origin of the surrender of the title or nonrepairable vehicle certificate and of the destruction of this vehicle.
      8. When a salvage title is issued, the department's records shall so note. There shall be no retitling for registration purposes or issuance of a rebuilt title for a passenger motor vehicle with a salvage title without a certificate of inspection, indicating that the vehicle has passed the required state anti-theft inspections. This item does not preclude the issuance of a new salvage title for a salvage vehicle after a transfer of ownership.
      9. After a passenger motor vehicle titled with a salvaged title has passed the required anti-theft inspections, the inspection official will affix a secure decal stating “Rebuilt Vehicle — Anti-theft Inspections Passed” to the driver's door jamb of the vehicle and issue to the owner of the vehicle a certificate indicating that the passenger motor vehicle has passed the required anti-theft inspections. The decal must comply with the permanency requirements established by the department.
      10. The owner of a passenger motor vehicle titled with a salvage title may obtain a rebuilt title and vehicle registration by presenting to the department the salvage title, properly assigned, if applicable, together with the certificate that the vehicle has passed the anti-theft inspections. With this proper documentation and upon request, a rebuilt title and registration shall be issued to the owner. When a rebuilt title is issued, the department's records shall so note.
   9. A seller of a passenger motor vehicle that becomes a flood vehicle shall, at or prior to the time of transfer of ownership, give the buyer a written notice that the vehicle is a flood vehicle. At the time of the next title application for the vehicle, disclosure of the flood status shall be provided to the state with the properly assigned title and the word “Flood” shall be conspicuously labeled across the front of the new title.
   10. In the case of a leased passenger motor vehicle, the lessee, within fifteen (15) days of the occurrence of the event that caused the vehicle to become a flood vehicle, shall give the lessor written disclosure that the vehicle is a flood vehicle.
3. The department is directed to develop electronic procedures in lieu of paper documents whenever these electronic procedures provide the same information, function, and security otherwise required by this section.
4. 1. If an insurance company or a salvage pool operator or an automotive dismantler and recycler authorized by the insurance company is unable to obtain the properly endorsed certificate of ownership or other evidence of ownership acceptable to the department within thirty (30) calendar days following the acceptance by the owner of an offer of an amount in settlement of a total loss, the insurance company or salvage pool operator or an automotive dismantler and recycler, on a form provided by the department and signed under penalty of perjury, may request the department to issue a salvage certificate for the vehicle. The request must include written confirmation by the requester that the insurance company has paid the claim and that the requester has made at least two (2) written attempts via commercial delivery service with evidence of delivery to the last known address of the owner to obtain the certificate of ownership or other acceptable evidence of title and must include the fee as set by the department.
   2. The department, upon receipt of the certificate of ownership, other evidence of title, or properly executed request described in subdivision (d)(1) and the fee, shall issue a lien-free salvage certificate for the vehicle.
5. A violation of this section is a Class A misdemeanor.

Acts 1996, ch. 552, §§ 4, 6; 1996, ch. 839, § 3; 2006, ch. 517, §§ 4, 5; 2007, ch. 484, § 33; T.C.A. § 55-3-212; Acts 2020, ch. 675, § 1.

Compiler's Notes. This section was renumbered from § 55-3-212 to § 55-3-209 as part of the reorganization of the part by authority of the Code Commission in 2017. See the parallel reference table in § 55-3-201 for the full disposition of sections.

Acts 1996, ch. 552, which enacted this section and § 55-3-201 and amended other sections in this title, may be cited as the “Motor Vehicle Anti-Theft, Title Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 1996.”

Acts 1996, ch. 839, § 4 provided: “It is the legislative intent of the General Assembly that Chapter 552 of the Public Acts of 1996 shall be applied prospectively and that the provisions of such chapter shall not be construed to create any new causes of action for acts that were in compliance with the prior provisions of law.” The act contained no effective date for § 4, and that section is deemed to have taken effect May 10, 1996.

Amendments. The 2020 amendment added (d) and redesignated following subsections accordingly.

Effective Dates. Acts 2020, ch. 675, § 3. October 1, 2020; provided that for purposes of promulgating rules, the act took effect June 15, 2020.

Cross-References. Penalty for Class A misdemeanor, § 40-35-111.

55-3-210. Notice of motor vehicle impoundment for manufacture of methamphetamine.

1. Any law enforcement agency that impounds a motor vehicle due to the manufacture of methamphetamine on or within the motor vehicle, determined to be contaminated pursuant to the standards developed pursuant to title 68, chapter 212, part 5, shall submit a notice of motor vehicle impoundment for manufacture of methamphetamine to the department of revenue within thirty (30) days of such impoundment.
2. A notice in a form substantially as follows is sufficient to comply with subsection (a):

   Notice of Motor Vehicle Impoundment for Manufacture of Methamphetamine

   Notice is hereby given that a motor vehicle has been impounded due to a charge of manufacture of methamphetamine on or within the vehicle. Such motor vehicle was seized at the location described below on

   This motor vehicle has been impounded by  pursuant to

   (name of law enforcement agency)

   Tennessee Code Annotated, § _________________.

   Address of Motor Vehicle Seizure:

   _________________________________

   Name of Motor Vehicle Owner or Owners:

   __________________________________

   Registered Address:

   __________________________________

   Apartment or Unit Number (if applicable):

   __________________________________

   VIN:

   __________________________________

   Year, Make, Model and Color:

   __________________________________

   Name of Person and Agency Giving Notice:

   __________________________________

   Signature of Person Giving Notice:

   __________________________________

   Title/Position:

   __________________________________

   Date:

   __________________________________.

Acts 2011, ch. 397, § 3; T.C.A. § 55-3-213.

Compiler's Notes. This section was renumbered from § 55-3-213 to § 55-3-210 as part of the reorganization of the part by authority of the Code Commission in 2017. See the parallel reference table in § 55-3-201 for the full disposition of sections.

Acts 2011, ch. 397, § 4 provided that the commissioner of revenue is authorized to promulgate rules to effectuate the purposes of the act, including, but not limited to, rules to provide a motor vehicle owner an opportunity for a hearing on the issue of whether the certificate of title for such vehicle should be labeled, or should continue to be labeled, as a methamphetamine vehicle. All such rules shall be promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5.

Acts 2011, ch. 397, § 5 provided that the act, which enacted this section, shall apply to all applicable offenses committed on or after July 1, 2011.

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Stopping Car Illegally Using Plates.

Officer would not have been authorized to stop car on assumption, based on second hand information from police records, that driver was using illegally license plates on a car other than the one to which they were issued. Williams v. State, 506 S.W.2d 193, 1973 Tenn. Crim. App. LEXIS 234 (Tenn. Crim. App. 1973).

2. Seizures of Vehicles.

Seizing an unregistered vehicle without a warrant may be justified and not an unreasonable seizure under U.S. Const., amend. 14, when it is being operated on the streets or highways. Lee v. Ladd, 834 S.W.2d 323, 1992 Tenn. App. LEXIS 232 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1992).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Display to Police Officer.

This section, when read with § 55-50-351, does not authorize a state highway patrolman to demand to see the certificate of vehicle registration of a vehicle where the operator of the vehicle has not violated an ordinance or law. United States v. Anderson, 401 F. Supp. 996, 1975 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 11313 (E.D. Tenn. 1975).

2. —County Officers.

Although this statute directs that only officers of the department of revenue (now safety) and state troopers have the authority to stop a vehicle and check the registration papers, that is not the case involving a legal stop by a county law enforcement officer. State v. Forero, 700 S.W.2d 190, 1985 Tenn. Crim. App. LEXIS 2831 (Tenn. Crim. App. 1985).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Traffic Stop.

Under T.C.A. § 55-4-110, Tennessee did not require a single vehicle to have a light to illuminate the license plate, and as such, the deputy did not have reasonable suspicion to stop defendant; the record failed to reflect that the officer had reasonable suspicion defendant had committed or was about to commit a crime, and the trial court erred in denying the motion to suppress. State v. Hunt, 302 S.W.3d 859, 2009 Tenn. Crim. App. LEXIS 266 (Tenn. Crim. App. Apr. 17, 2009), superseded by statute as stated in, United States v. Melton, — F. Supp. 2d —, 2017 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 204080 (E.D. Tenn. Dec. 12, 2017).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Nature of Fees.

Registration fees imposed by this section and § 55-4-112 are privilege taxes and not ad valorem taxes. Tennessee Trailways, Inc. v. Butler, 213 Tenn. 136, 373 S.W.2d 201, 1963 Tenn. LEXIS 337 (1963).

2. Local Tax on Vehicle.

There is nothing in this section which prohibits a county from levying and collecting a privilege tax on motor vehicles as authorized by § 5-8-102. Adkins v. Robertson County, 201 Tenn. 596, 301 S.W.2d 337, 1957 Tenn. LEXIS 340 (1957).

3. Apportionment of Fees.

Operator of intrastate and interstate bus company was not entitled to apportion its registration fees for the year 1962-1963 upon the basis of the Tennessee mileage of its predecessor corporation during the year 1961-1962 in absence of specific statutory authority. Tennessee Trailways, Inc. v. Butler, 213 Tenn. 136, 373 S.W.2d 201, 1963 Tenn. LEXIS 337 (1963).

Inasmuch as registration fees constitute privilege taxes, the operating experience of another corporation was not transferable to motor carrier as an asset and could not be utilized to apportion registration fees of buses in absence of specific statutory authority. Tennessee Trailways, Inc. v. Butler, 213 Tenn. 136, 373 S.W.2d 201, 1963 Tenn. LEXIS 337 (1963).

Failure of assistant commissioner of finance (now revenue) to insist on payment of registration fees upon merger of former corporation with taxpayer corporation would not estop commissioner from insisting that operation experience of the predecessor corporation was inapplicable to taxpayer corporation in apportioning registration fees. Tennessee Trailways, Inc. v. Butler, 213 Tenn. 136, 373 S.W.2d 201, 1963 Tenn. LEXIS 337 (1963).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Nature of Fees.

Registration fees imposed by T.C.A. § 55-4-111 and this section are privilege taxes and not ad valorem taxes. Tennessee Trailways, Inc. v. Butler, 213 Tenn. 136, 373 S.W.2d 201, 1963 Tenn. LEXIS 337 (1963).

2. Apportionment of Fees.

Operator of intrastate and interstate bus company was not entitled to apportion its registration fees for the year 1962-1963 upon the basis of the Tennessee mileage of its predecessor corporation during the year 1961-1962 in absence of specific statutory authority. Tennessee Trailways, Inc. v. Butler, 213 Tenn. 136, 373 S.W.2d 201, 1963 Tenn. LEXIS 337 (1963).

Inasmuch as registration fees constitute privilege taxes, the operating experience of another corporation was not transferable to motor carrier as an asset and could not be utilized to apportion registration fees of buses in absence of specific statutory authority. Tennessee Trailways, Inc. v. Butler, 213 Tenn. 136, 373 S.W.2d 201, 1963 Tenn. LEXIS 337 (1963).

Failure of assistant commissioner of finance (now revenue) to insist on payment of registration fees upon merger of former corporation with taxpayer corporation would not estop commissioner from insisting that operation experience of the predecessor corporation was inapplicable to taxpayer corporation in apportioning registration fees. Tennessee Trailways, Inc. v. Butler, 213 Tenn. 136, 373 S.W.2d 201, 1963 Tenn. LEXIS 337 (1963).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Constitutionality.

The 1953 amendment was not unconstitutional because it referred alone to the sections of the 1950 Code Supplement without additional language. Donahoo v. Mason & Dixon Lines, Inc., 199 Tenn. 145, 285 S.W.2d 125, 1955 Tenn. LEXIS 438 (1955).

2. Penalties.

The penalty provided for in § 55-5-114 for violation of the gross weight limitation set forth in § 55-7-203 does not apply to overweight freight motor vehicles operating with special zone licenses authorized by subdivision (a)(7), as the reregistration requirement and two-year prohibition against special licensing provided by this section was intended to be the exclusive penalty for such licensees. Woods v. Phillips, 558 S.W.2d 825, 1977 Tenn. LEXIS 661 (Tenn. 1977).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Seizures.

Seizing an unregistered vehicle without a warrant may be justified and not an unreasonable seizure under U.S. Const., amend. 14, when it is being operated on the streets or highways. Lee v. Ladd, 834 S.W.2d 323, 1992 Tenn. App. LEXIS 232 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1992).

Towing an unregistererd car to the impoundment lot gave the government the opportunity to make sure the registration laws had been satisfied before releasing the car, pursuant to T.C.A. § 55-4-115(a)(3). Lee v. Ladd, 834 S.W.2d 323, 1992 Tenn. App. LEXIS 232 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1992).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Transfer of Vehicles.

In determining whether ownership of a motor vehicle was transferred in a situation where the requirements of the Tennessee Motor Vehicle Title and Registration Law were not complied with, this section at most might be a circumstance reflecting the intent of the parties if it could be shown that they knew of the statute and did not comply with it. Mercado v. Travelers Ins. Co., 59 Tenn. App. 741, 443 S.W.2d 819, 1969 Tenn. App. LEXIS 352 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1969).

2. —Successor Corporations.

Failure of assistant commissioner of finance (now commissioner of revenue) to insist on payment of registration fees upon merger of former corporation with taxpayer corporation would not estop commissioner from insisting that operating experience of predecessor corporation was inapplicable to taxpayer corporation in apportioning registration fees under § 55-4-122. Tennessee Trailways, Inc. v. Butler, 213 Tenn. 136, 373 S.W.2d 201, 1963 Tenn. LEXIS 337 (1963).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Registration in Foreign State Necessary.

Nonresident cannot bring himself within the provisions of this section unless he has car registered in his resident state with license plates issued by that state displayed. Edwards v. Central Motor Co., 38 Tenn. App. 577, 277 S.W.2d 413, 1954 Tenn. App. LEXIS 143 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1954), aff'd, 198 Tenn. 50, 277 S.W.2d 417, 1955 Tenn. LEXIS 343 (1955).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Constitutionality.

This statute is not unconstitutional as an attempted delegation of legislative power and an agreement made pursuant thereto is not illegal as being in conflict with the general registration laws. Marshall v. State, 180 Tenn. 9, 171 S.W.2d 269, 1943 Tenn. LEXIS 18 (1943).

This section is not violative of the due process and law of the land provisions of the state and federal constitutions since regulation of the use of highways is within plenary power of the general assembly. Donahoo v. Mason & Dixon Lines, Inc., 199 Tenn. 145, 285 S.W.2d 125, 1955 Tenn. LEXIS 438 (1955).

This section was not violative of Tenn. Const., art. I, § 1, on ground that it was for public injury and not public welfare and contrary to purpose of government since general assembly was acting within its discretion in regulation of use of highways. Donahoo v. Mason & Dixon Lines, Inc., 199 Tenn. 145, 285 S.W.2d 125, 1955 Tenn. LEXIS 438 (1955).

This section is not violative of Tenn. Const., art. II, § 28, on ground that it grants special privileges and immunities to one small group since it applies to all persons who can bring themselves within its provisions. Donahoo v. Mason & Dixon Lines, Inc., 199 Tenn. 145, 285 S.W.2d 125, 1955 Tenn. LEXIS 438 (1955).

2. Strict Construction.

In a suit by taxpayer claiming exemption from payment of motor vehicle registration fees by virtue of reciprocal agreement between Tennessee and Indiana the taxing statute and agreement will be construed strictly against taxpayer. Silver Fleet Motor Express, Inc. v. Carson, 188 Tenn. 338, 219 S.W.2d 199, 1949 Tenn. LEXIS 345 (1949).

3. Application to Trucking Company.

Trucking company which kept stock book records and held annual stockholders meeting at Seymour, Indiana where it had a small office manned by three employees was not entitled to exemption from registration tax by virtue of reciprocal agreement between Tennessee and Indiana where evidence showed that it maintained a large office in Louisville, Kentucky manned by 70 employees, designated Louisville as its main office on its literature, and had in a prior petition based on invalid agreement between Tennessee and Kentucky designated Louisville as its main office. Silver Fleet Motor Express, Inc. v. Carson, 188 Tenn. 338, 219 S.W.2d 199, 1949 Tenn. LEXIS 345 (1949).

4. City License Fees.

The charter provisions of the City of Chattanooga under which it enacted an ordinance imposing a license fee on passenger automobiles using the streets of the city were not repealed by implication or superseded by the provisions of this statute or by a reciprocal agreement made pursuant thereto by the state commissioner of finance and taxation (now revenue) with the officials of the state of Georgia. DeLay v. Chattanooga, 180 Tenn. 316, 174 S.W.2d 929, 1943 Tenn. LEXIS 17 (1943).

The city itself is charged with the duty of constructing and maintaining its streets and the commissioner of finance and taxation (now revenue) is without authority under this statute to contract with reference to the use thereof. DeLay v. Chattanooga, 180 Tenn. 316, 174 S.W.2d 929, 1943 Tenn. LEXIS 17 (1943).

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Nature of Tax.

The general assembly intended the tax to be levied against the motor carrier for the privilege of operating a fleet of two or more vehicles upon the highways of the state of Tennessee and not upon specific vehicles, and the vehicle registration fees are privilege taxes based upon the privilege of the operation of such vehicles by the owner over the highways of the state. Tennessee Trailways, Inc. v. Butler, 213 Tenn. 136, 373 S.W.2d 201, 1963 Tenn. LEXIS 337 (1963).

2. Apportionment of Fees.

3. —Successor Corporations.

Operator of intrastate and interstate bus company was not entitled to apportion its registration fees for the year 1962-1963 upon the basis of the Tennessee mileage of its predecessor corporation during the year 1961-1962 in absence of specific statutory authority. Tennessee Trailways, Inc. v. Butler, 213 Tenn. 136, 373 S.W.2d 201, 1963 Tenn. LEXIS 337 (1963).

Inasmuch as registration fees constitute privilege taxes, the operating experience of another corporation was not transferable to motor carrier as an asset and could not be utilized to apportion registration fees of buses in absence of specific statutory authority. Tennessee Trailways, Inc. v. Butler, 213 Tenn. 136, 373 S.W.2d 201, 1963 Tenn. LEXIS 337 (1963).

Failure of assistant commissioner of finance (now revenue) to insist on payment of registration fees upon merger of former corporation with taxpayer corporation would not estop commissioner from insisting that operation experience of the predecessor corporation was inapplicable to taxpayer corporation in apportioning registration fees. Tennessee Trailways, Inc. v. Butler, 213 Tenn. 136, 373 S.W.2d 201, 1963 Tenn. LEXIS 337 (1963).

55-4-201. Part definitions.

As used in this part:

1. “Collegiate plate” or “collegiate license plate” means the class of cultural motor vehicle registration plates enumerated in § 55-4-203(c)(5)(C), which features on each individual plate a special reference to or identification or information on:
   1. A two-year or four-year college or university located within this state;
   2. A four-year college or university located outside this state; or
   3. A four-year law school located within this state that is not accredited by the American Bar Association;
2. 1. “Cultural plate” or “cultural license plate” means:
      1. A special or cultural motor vehicle registration plate authorized by statute prior to July 1, 1998, and enumerated in § 55-4-203(c)(5); or
      2. An honorary motor vehicle registration plate authorized by statute on or after July 1, 1998, which statute does not specifically earmark the funds produced from the sale of the plate;
   2. “Cultural plate” or “cultural license plate” includes collegiate plates and personalized plates unless those plates are specifically excluded from this definition by statute;
3. “Memorial plate” or “memorial license plate” means those motor vehicle registration plates, as enumerated in § 55-4-203(c)(4) and defined in § 55-4-250, that are issued free of charge, including the regular registration fee, pursuant to § 55-4-204(b);
4. “New specialty earmarked plate” or “new specialty earmarked license plate” means a motor vehicle registration plate authorized by statute on or after July 1, 1998, which statute earmarks the funds produced from the sale of that plate to be allocated to a specific nonprofit organization or state agency or fund to fulfill a specific purpose or to accomplish a specific goal;
5. “Off-highway vehicle plate” or “off-highway vehicle license plate” means those motor vehicle registration plates, as enumerated in § 55-4-203(a) and described in chapter 4, part 7 of this title, that are issued to Class I and Class II off-highway vehicles as defined in § 55-8-101;
6. “Personalized plate” or “personalized license plate” means the class of cultural motor vehicle registration plates that features on each individual plate not less than three (3) nor more than seven (7) identifying numbers, letters, positions or a combination thereof for a passenger motor vehicle, recreational vehicle or truck of one-half or three-quarter-ton rating or, if authorized, not less than three (3) nor more than six (6) identifying numbers, letters, positions or a combination thereof for a motorcycle, as requested by the owner or lessee of the vehicle to which that plate is assigned;
7. “Personalized trailer plate” or “personalized trailer license plate” means a motor vehicle registration plate that is permitted, but not required, to be registered to a trailer or semitrailer that features on each individual plate not less than three (3) nor more than seven (7) identifying numbers, letters, positions or a combination of numbers, letters or positions for a trailer or semitrailer, as requested by the owner or lessee of the trailer or semitrailer to which the plate is assigned;
8. “Special purpose plate” or “special purpose license plate” means all other motor vehicle registration plates issued pursuant to this part, including antique motor vehicle, dealer, disabled, emergency, firefighter pursuant to § 55-4-224, general assembly, government service, judiciary, national guard, OEM headquarters company, sheriff, special event, boat dealer, United States house of representatives, United States judge and United States senate plates; and
9. “Specialty earmarked plate” or “specialty earmarked license plate” means a motor vehicle registration plate authorized by statute prior to July 1, 1998, and enumerated in § 55-4-203(c)(6), which statute earmarks the funds produced from the sale of that plate to be allocated to a specific organization, state agency or fund, or other entity to fulfill a specific purpose or to accomplish a specific goal.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2007, ch. 142, § 4; 2009, ch. 530, § 120; 2009, ch. 589, § 41; 2013, ch. 117, § 1; 2016, ch. 790, § 6; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-209; Acts 2020, ch. 571, § 1; 2020, ch. 660, § 40.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2009, ch. 589.

Amendments. The 2020 amendment by ch. 571 inserted “boat dealer,” in the definition of “special purpose plate”.

The 2020 amendment by ch. 660 substituted “§ 55-4-203(c)(5)(C)” for “§ 55-4-203(c)(5)(B)” in the definition of “collegiate plate” and added (1)(C).

Effective Dates. Acts 2020, ch. 571, § 3. July 1, 2020.

Acts 2020, ch. 660, § 51. July 1, 2020.

55-4-202. Issuance — Applicability of part — Requirements — Plates deemed obsolete due to inactivity.

1. 1. All cultural, specialty earmarked and new specialty earmarked motor vehicle registration plates, memorial motor vehicle registration plates and special purpose motor vehicle registration plates now, or in the future, shall be issued and renewed pursuant to this part. No plate, other than those issued under part 1 of this chapter, shall be issued or renewed unless authorized in this part.
   2. For the purposes of this part and part 3 of this chapter, “this part” means this part and part 3 of this chapter.
2. All plates issued pursuant to this part shall be issued and renewed subject to the following:
   1. Payment of the applicable registration fee, except as specifically provided otherwise by § 55-4-204 or any other applicable provision of this part;
   2. An additional fee of thirty-five dollars ($35.00) to be paid by the applicant upon issuance and renewal, except as specifically provided otherwise by § 55-4-204 or any other applicable provision of this part;
   3. 1. A minimum order of one hundred (100) plates for collegiate plates as defined by § 55-4-201. Collegiate plates for motorcycles, as authorized by § 55-4-210(c), shall be subject to a minimum order of one hundred (100) plates for each classification of collegiate plates;
      2. A minimum order of at least five hundred (500) plates for all other cultural, specialty earmarked and new specialty earmarked plates. Personalized plates for motorcycles, as authorized by § 55-4-210(c), shall be subject to a minimum order of five hundred (500) plates;
   4. A design which shall be approved by the commissioner; and
   5. A handling fee of one dollar ($1.00) payable to the county clerk upon issuance or renewal of any cultural, specialty earmarked, or new specialty earmarked license plate, except plates exempted from payment of fees under § 55-4-204 or any other applicable provision of this part.
3. 1. Subsection (b) shall apply equally to the renewal of any plate issued pursuant to this part; provided, that any plate that fails to meet the minimum requirements of subdivision (b)(3) by December 31, 1999, or for two (2) successive renewal periods thereafter shall not be reissued or renewed, and the commissioner shall notify the Tennessee code commission that the section of Tennessee Code Annotated authorizing the issuance of the plate is, on the basis of inactivity, to be deemed obsolete and invalid.
   2. Any cultural or new specialty earmarked plate authorized by statute on or after July 1, 1998, shall be subject to the minimum issuance requirements of subdivision (b)(3).
   3. Any plate authorized by this part that qualifies for initial issuance on or after July 1, 1998, shall be subject to the minimum issuance requirements of subdivision (b)(3).
4. Any plate authorized by this part that has not qualified for initial issuance by December 31, 1999, shall not be issued and the commissioner shall notify the Tennessee code commission that the section of Tennessee Code Annotated authorizing the issuance of the plate is, on the basis of inactivity, to be deemed obsolete and invalid.
5. Notwithstanding subsection (d), any plate authorized by statute on or after January 1, 1999, that fails to meet the minimum issuance requirements of subdivision (b)(3)(B) within one (1) year of the effective date of the act authorizing the plate shall not be issued, and the commissioner shall notify the Tennessee code commission that the section of Tennessee Code Annotated authorizing the issuance of the plate is, on the basis of inactivity, to be deemed obsolete and invalid.
6. Subdivision (b)(3) and subsections (c), (d), (e), (g), and (k) shall not apply to the following plates issued pursuant to this part:
   1. Antique motor vehicle;
   2. Dealer;
   3. Disabled;
   4. Emergency;
   5. Firefighter, as provided for in § 55-4-224;
   6. General assembly;
   7. Government service;
   8. Honorary consular;
   9. Judiciary;
   10. Legislator Emeritus;
   11. Memorial;
   12. Metropolitan council;
   13. Military;
   14. National Guard;
   15. Sheriff;
   16. United States house of representatives;
   17. United States judge; and
   18. United States senate.
7. 1. Notwithstanding this part to the contrary, any cultural or new specialty earmarked license plate authorized by statute on or after July 1, 2002, shall be subject to a minimum order of at least one thousand (1,000) plates prior to initial issuance. This subdivision (g)(1) shall apply equally to the renewal of any cultural or new specialty earmarked plate initially issued on or after July 1, 2002. Any such plate that does not meet the minimum order requirements of this subdivision (g)(1) within one (1) year of the effective date of the act authorizing that plate, or does not meet the renewal requirements for any two (2) successive renewal periods thereafter, shall not be issued, reissued or renewed and shall be deemed obsolete and invalid. The commissioner shall annually notify the executive secretary of the Tennessee code commission of the sections of the code authorizing the issuance of plates deemed obsolete and invalid pursuant to this subdivision (g)(1).
   2. Subdivision (g)(1) shall not apply to collegiate plates otherwise administered pursuant to this part; provided, that on and after July 1, 2002, collegiate plates for four-year colleges or universities located outside this state shall be subject to a minimum order of at least one thousand (1,000) plates prior to initial issuance by the department. This subdivision (g)(2) shall apply equally to the renewal of any collegiate plates for four-year colleges or universities located outside this state initially issued by the department on or after July 1, 2002. Any such plate that does not meet the minimum order requirements of this subdivision (g)(2) or does not meet the renewal requirements for any two (2) successive renewal periods, shall not be administratively issued, reissued or renewed by the department and shall be deemed obsolete and invalid.
   3. 1. Notwithstanding any provision of this part to the contrary, between July 1, 2002, and August 31, 2002, any cultural license plate authorized by § 55-4-240 shall be subject to a minimum order of at least two hundred fifty (250) plates prior to initial issuance. This subdivision (g)(3)(A) shall apply equally to the renewal of any cultural license plate authorized by § 55-4-240 and initially issued between July 1, 2002, and August 31, 2002. Any such plate that does not meet the minimum order requirements of this subdivision (g)(3)(A) or does not meet the renewal requirements for any two (2) successive renewal periods, shall not be administratively issued, reissued or renewed by the department and shall be deemed obsolete and invalid.
      2. On or after September 1, 2002, any cultural license plate authorized by § 55-4-240 shall be subject to a minimum order of at least one thousand (1,000) plates prior to initial issuance. This subdivision (g)(3)(B) shall apply equally to the renewal of any cultural license plate authorized by § 55-4-240 and initially issued on or after September 1, 2002. Any such plate that does not meet the minimum order requirements of this subdivision (g)(3)(B) or does not meet the renewal requirements for any two (2) successive renewal periods, shall not be administratively issued, reissued or renewed by the department and shall be deemed obsolete and invalid.
8. All funds produced from the sale or renewal of cultural, specialty earmarked and new specialty earmarked license plates shall be used exclusively in Tennessee to support departments, agencies, charities, programs and other activities impacting Tennessee, as authorized pursuant to this part.
9. 1. Any new specialty earmarked license plate authorized by statute on behalf of a nonprofit organization shall be subject to certification of the organization's nonprofit status by the secretary of state within ninety (90) days of the effective date of the act authorizing the plate prior to initial issuance.
   2. Any specialty earmarked license plate authorized by statute and initially issued prior to July 1, 1998, on behalf of a nonprofit organization, and any new specialty earmarked license plate authorized by statute and initially issued on or after July 1, 1998, and prior to July 1, 2008, on behalf of a nonprofit organization, shall be subject to certification of the organization's nonprofit status by the secretary of state.
   3. Any new specialty earmarked license plate or specialty earmarked license plate authorized on behalf of a nonprofit organization that is not certified as a registered nonprofit organization in good standing with the state by the secretary of state shall not be issued or renewed and shall be deemed obsolete and invalid.
10. Any nonprofit organization receiving proceeds from the sale of a specialty earmarked license plate or new specialty earmarked license plate, shall be subject to the following requirements:
    1. The nonprofit organization shall meet and maintain all statutory requirements and internal revenue service regulations for nonprofit corporations;
    2. Each nonprofit organization shall maintain its nonprofit status in good standing with the secretary of state;
    3. By September 30 each year, all nonprofit organizations receiving proceeds from the sale or renewal of a specialty earmarked license plate or new specialty earmarked license plate shall submit an annual accounting of all such funds received from July 1 to June 30 of the preceding state fiscal year to the comptroller of the treasury. If a nonprofit organization fails to comply with the annual accounting requirement, then the commissioner of the department or agency responsible for paying the specialty earmarked license plate or new specialty earmarked license plate proceeds shall, at the request of the comptroller of the treasury, hold the proceeds in reserve until the nonprofit organization submits its annual accounting and the comptroller notifies the department or agency to release the funds. Any costs associated with holding the plate proceeds shall be deducted from the reserve fund as an administration fee. The comptroller of the treasury may audit any nonprofit organization receiving funds from a specialty earmarked license plate or new specialty earmarked license plate to ensure that the funds are being used in accordance with statutory authority for the plate, and the cost of the audit shall be charged to the nonprofit organization; and
    4. A nonprofit organization shall return any proceeds received from a specialty earmarked license plate or new specialty earmarked license plate that a comptroller of the treasury's audit finds have been used in violation of statutory authority. The attorney general and reporter is authorized to institute proceedings, as defined in § 48-51-201, under the Tennessee Nonprofit Corporation Act, compiled in title 48, chapters 51-68, to recover the proceeds.
11. 1. Notwithstanding this part to the contrary, any cultural or new specialty earmarked license plate authorized by statute on or after July 1, 2013, shall be subject to a minimum order of at least one thousand (1,000) plates prior to initial issuance. Any cultural or new specialty earmarked license plate authorized by statute shall be subject to a minimum order of at least eight hundred (800) plates for the renewal of such cultural or new specialty earmarked plates. Any such plate that does not meet the minimum order requirements of this subdivision (k)(1) within one (1) year of the effective date of the act authorizing that plate, or does not meet the renewal requirements for any two (2) successive renewal periods thereafter, shall not be issued, reissued, or renewed and shall be deemed obsolete and invalid. The commissioner shall annually notify the executive secretary of the Tennessee code commission of the sections of the code authorizing the issuance of plates deemed obsolete and invalid pursuant to this subdivision (k)(1).
    2. Subdivision (k)(1) shall not apply to collegiate plates otherwise administered pursuant to this part; provided, that on and after July 1, 2013, collegiate plates for four-year colleges or universities located outside this state shall be subject to a minimum order of at least one thousand (1,000) plates prior to initial issuance by the department. The renewal of any collegiate plates for four-year colleges or universities located outside Tennessee issued by the department on or after July 1, 2013, shall be subject to a minimum order of at least eight hundred (800) plates. Any such plate that does not meet the minimum order requirements of this subdivision (k)(2) or does not meet the renewal requirements for any two (2) successive renewal periods, shall not be administratively issued, reissued, or renewed by the department and shall be deemed obsolete and invalid.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 1999, ch. 494, § 1; 2000, ch. 674, § 1; 2002, ch. 876, §§ 1, 3; 2007, ch. 484, § 42; 2007, ch. 604, § 17; 2008, ch. 924, §§ 8, 12; 2008, ch. 1145, § 1; 2013, ch. 264, § 1; 2016, ch. 655, §§ 1-5; 2017, ch. 359, §§ 1, 2; 2017, ch. 384, § 38; 2018, ch. 1023, §§ 48, 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-201.

Code Commission Notes.

Former subsection (i), concerning a performance audit of the department’s policies, procedures and directives with findings and recommendations to be reported on or before February 5, 2003, was deleted as obsolete by the code commission in 2008.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Former part 2, §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-234 (Acts 1951, ch. 67, §§ 1-3 (Williams §§ 5538.161a-5538.161c); 1951, ch. 70, §§ 59-61 (Williams §§ 5538.159-5538.161); 1953, ch. 167, § 12; 1955, ch. 66, §§ 1, 2; 1955, ch. 198, §§ 1-4; 1955, ch. 233, §§ 1-4; 1957, ch. 57, § 1; 1957, ch. 108, § 2; 1959, ch. 9, § 14; 1959, ch. 211, §§ 1-3; 1959, ch. 274, § 1; 1963, ch. 178, § 1; 1963, ch. 179, § 1; 1963, ch. 352, § 1; 1967, ch. 152, § 1; 1967, ch. 242, § 2; 1967, ch. 281, § 1; 1968, ch. 515, § 1; 1969, ch. 71, §§ 1, 2; 1969, ch. 83, § 1; 1969, ch. 334, §§ 2-6; 1970, ch. 420, § 1; 1970, ch. 421, § 1; 1970, ch. 544, § 1; 1971, ch. 20, § 1; 1971, ch. 146, §§ 1, 2; 1971, ch. 157, § 3; 1971, ch. 233, §§ 1, 2; 1972, ch. 518, § 7; 1972, ch. 712, §§ 1, 2; 1973, ch. 70, § 1; 1973, ch. 234, §§ 1(c), 5; 1973, ch. 366, § 1; 1973, ch. 380, § 1; 1974, ch. 531, § 1; 1974, ch. 537, § 1; 1975, ch. 195, § 1; 1975, ch. 212, § 1; 1975, ch. 218, § 1; 1975, ch. 271, § 1; 1976, ch. 500, § 1; 1976, ch. 637, § 1; 1976, ch. 778, § 1; 1976, ch. 830, § 1; 1977, ch. 134, § 1; 1978, ch. 534, §§ 1, 2; 1978, ch. 571, §§ 1, 2; 1978, ch. 604, § 1; 1978, ch. 644, § 1; 1978, ch. 779, § 1; 1978, ch. 934, §§ 22, 36; 1979, ch. 417, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 59-411 — 59-415, 59-429; T.C.A., §§ 59-428, 59-439 — 59-450, 59-452, 59-453, 59-462, 59-464, 59-473 — 59-477; Acts 1980, ch. 487, § 1; 1980, ch. 514, §§ 1, 2; 1980, ch. 521, § 1; 1980, ch. 561, § 1; 1980, ch. 589, §§ 2-4; 1981, ch. 102, § 1; 1981, ch. 271, § 1; 1982, ch. 741, § 1; 1983, ch. 349, § 1), concerning free and special license plates, was repealed by Acts 1984, ch. 966, § 1.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, which repealed and reenacted this part, provided in § 2 that the provisions of that act shall supersede the issuance, renewal and revenue allocation provisions of all other acts enacted by the One-Hundredth General Assembly authorizing special or cultural motor vehicle registration plates. This part shall control the issuance and renewal of such plates and the allocation of the revenues produced from the sale and renewal of such plates, regardless of the order of passage of any conflicting provisions. All special and cultural motor vehicle registration plates authorized by an enactment of the One-Hundredth General Assembly shall be classified as one of the following for the purposes of this part:

“Cultural plate” if the act authorizing for such plate does not specifically earmark the funds produced from the sale of such plate; or “New Specialty Earmarked plate” if the act authorizing such plate earmarks the funds produced from the sale of such plate to be allocated to a specific nonprofit organization or state agency or fund to fulfill a specific purpose or to accomplish a specific goal. All special and cultural motor vehicle registration plates authorized by an enactment of the One Hundredth General Assembly shall be issued and renewed in accordance with the provisions of this part governing the issuance and renewal of cultural plates or new specialty earmarked plates, as appropriate. The revenues produced from the sale of the special and cultural motor vehicle registration plates authorized by an enactment of the One Hundredth General Assembly shall be allocated in accordance with the provisions of § 55-4-216, if such plate is classified as a cultural plate, or § 55-4-215  [now § 55-4-301], if such plate is classified as a new specialty earmarked plate. Section 2 further provides that nothing in that section shall be construed as reallocating the revenues produced from the regular motor vehicle registration fees, or renewals thereof, imposed by part 1 of this chapter. Such revenues shall be allocated in accordance with the provisions of § 55-6-107.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 3 further provided that the Tennessee Code Commission is directed to codify the acts enacted by the One Hundredth General Assembly authorizing special or cultural motor vehicle license plates in accordance with the statutory provisions of this part and to conform all citations to Tennessee Code Annotated in the acts authorizing such plates to the statutory provisions of this part. When the statutory language of the acts authorizing such plates duplicates the statutory language of § 55-4-220 [now § 55-4-212], the Tennessee Code Commission is authorized to omit such duplicative language from Tennessee Code Annotated.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 5 provided that no later than July 15 of each year, the department of safety shall notify the code commission which sections or subsections of Tennessee Code Annotated have been deemed obsolete and invalid pursuant to the provisions of that act, if any.

Provisions enacted in 1998, concerning the issuance of cultural and new specialty earmarked registration plates, which conflicted with the provisions of Acts 1998, ch. 1063, were not codified. For provisions governing the issuance of such plates and the distribution of fees from such issuances, see this section and §§ 55-4-202 [now § 55-4-203]55-4-209 § 55-4-201], 55-4-210 and 55-4-214—55-4-220.

Acts 2002, ch. 876, § 64 provided that the provisions of subsection (f) of this section shall not apply to that act.

Acts 2002, ch. 876, § 65 provided that the commissioner of safety is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to effectuate the provisions of that act. All such rules and regulations shall be promulgated in accordance with the provisions of the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5.

For transfer of the division of title and registration to the department of revenue, see Executive Order No. 36, effective July 1, 2006 (April 19, 2006).

Acts 2008, ch. 1165, § 49 provided that the provisions of § 55-4-201(f) [became § 55-4-202(f), which was repealed in 2019] shall not apply to § 48 of the act, which added Bryan College to § 55-4-202(c)(5)(B) [now § 55-4-203(c)(5)(C)(i) defined by Bryan College].

Acts 2011, ch. 491, § 40 provided that, for the purposes of § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], all license plates authorized or issued pursuant to § 55-4-245(a), (e) and (g) [now § 55-4-326(a), (e) and (g)] shall be jointly included in any determinations for initial issuance and continuation of issuance. If Tennessee Fraternal Order of Police specialty earmarked plates are subsequently deemed obsolete pursuant to § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], such determination shall also apply to all Fraternal Order of Police license plates issued prior to July 1, 2011.

In view of subsection (h), former provisions in § 55-4-202 [now § 55-4-203] concerning the new specialty license plates for Adoption, Fisk Jubilee Singers, Habitat for Humanity, Harpeth River Watershed Association, Kappa Delta Sorority, Prince Hall Masons, Rotary International, Spirit Horse Therapeutic Riding, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, T. C. Thompson Children’s Hospital, and the Tennessee Equine Association were deleted as obsolete and invalid in 2012, since these license plates failed to meet the minimum order requirements for issuance.

Pursuant to the requirements of § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the former specialty license plates for Tennessee’s Veterans, Donate Life, Labrador Retriever Foundation, American Red Cross, National Civil Rights Museum, Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), American Lung Association, Tennessee Breast Cancer Coalition, Ronald McDonald House, FedEx Family House, Dogwood Arts, Music City Alumni Chapter of Western Kentucky University, Boy Scouts of America, Teamsters, Brain Injury Awareness, and Wilson County – The Place to Be! are declared to be obsolete since they did not qualify for initial issuance by the July 1, 2013, deadline.

Acts 2014, ch. 941, § 17, as amended by Acts 2015, ch. 383, §  35, and as amended by Acts 2017, ch. 384  §  52, provided that, notwithstanding § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the “Niswonger Children's Hospital” new specialty earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to  § 55-4-313 [now § 55-4-345] shall have until July 1, 2018, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)].

Acts 2014, ch. 941, § 23 provided that, notwithstanding § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the Tennessee Federation of Garden Clubs new specialty earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to  § 55-4-374 shall have until July 1, 2015, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)].

Acts 2014, ch. 941, § 24, as amended by Acts 2015, ch. 383, §  20, provided that, notwithstanding § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the Native American Indian Association new specialty earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to  § 55-4-230 shall have until July 1, 2016, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-201(h)(1).

Pursuant to the requirements of  § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the former specialty license plates for Concerned Motorcyclists of Tennessee/American Bikers Active Toward Education, Alpha Eta Rho International Aviation Fraternity, Vanderbilt University Athletic Department, Northwest Tennessee Disaster Service, Suicide Prevention, Safe Schools, Tennessee Theatre, Adoption, Sons of American Revolution, Historic Collierville, Tennessee Tennis, and Almost Home Animal Rescue are declared to be obsolete since they did not qualify for initial issuance by the July 1, 2014, deadline.

Pursuant to the requirements of § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the former specialty license plates for Chambliss Center for Children, Historic Gallatin, I RECYCLE, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Lung Cancer Alliance, McCallie School, and Tennessee Federation of Garden Clubs are declared to be obsolete since they did not qualify for initial issuance by the July 1, 2015 deadline.

Acts 2016, ch. 879, § 42 provided that notwithstanding § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the Friends of Sycamore Shoals Historic Area, Inc., new specialty earmarked license plates authorized pursuant to §  55-4-327 [now § 55-4-323] shall have until July 1, 2017, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)].

Pursuant to the requirements of § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the former specialty license plates for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), 2014 College World Series Champions — Vanderbilt University, Alzheimer's Association, Cystic Fibrosis Awareness, Donate Life, Germantown Charity Horse Show, Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, Inc., Music City Inc. Foundation, Native American Indian Association, Scenic and Historic Gallatin, Soulsville, U.S.A., Supporters of the Blind and Visually Impaired, Tennessee Vietnam Veterans, Inc., Vanderbilt University Athletic Department, and Wingz of Love Foundation are declared to be obsolete since they did not qualify for initial issuance by the July 1, 2016 deadline.

Acts 2017, ch. 384,  § 53 provided that notwithstanding  § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the Pat Summitt Foundation  new specialty earmarked license plates authorized pursuant to § 55-4-315 [now § 55-4-355)] shall have until July 1, 2018, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4- 201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)].

Pursuant to the requirements of § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the former specialty license plates for Be Nice, Combat Action, D.A.R.E., Down Syndrome Awareness, Eastern Star, Fallen Linemen, Fallen Police and Firefighters, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Nashville Parks Foundation, Prostate Cancer Awareness, Rotary International, Tennessee Schools Nutrition Association, Tennessee Tech University, The Fairgrounds Nashville, and Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW) are declared to be obsolete since they did not qualify for initial issuance by the July 1, 2017 deadline.

Pursuant to the requirements of § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the former specialty license plates for A Soldier's Child, Alzheimer's Association, Baylor School, Boy Scouts of America, Chattanooga Football Club, Childhood Cancer Awareness, Childhood Hunger Awareness, Cystic Fibrosis Awareness, Diabetes Awareness, Germantown Charity Horse Show, Historic Collierville, Historic Whitehaven, In Remembrance, Justin P Wilson Cumberland Trail State Scenic Trail State Park, Police Activities League, Retired Female Firefighter, Strictly Vettes, are declared to be obsolete since they did not qualify for initial issuance by the July 1, 2018 deadline.

Cross-References. Collection of additional fee for special plates, § 55-4-104.

Attorney General Opinions. Establishment of new specialty earmarked license plate recognizing catholic charities.  OAG 10-34, 2010 Tenn. AG LEXIS 34 (3/16/10).

Establishment of new specialty earmarked license plate asserting that “Jesus is Lord”.  OAG 10-52, 2010 Tenn. AG LEXIS 52 (4/15/10).

Legislation that requires all vehicle registration plates to bear the language “In God We Trust” would be constitutionally suspect under the Establishment Clause, the Free Exercise Clause, and the Free Speech Clause of the First Amendment, as well as Tenn. Const. Article I, Sections 3 and 19. However, legislation that gives vehicle owners the option of selecting a vehicle registration plate bearing the language “In God We Trust” would be constitutionally defensible. OAG 17-21, 2017 Tenn. AG LEXIS 20 (3/23/2017).

A privately owned and operated vehicle with emergency plates operated by an amateur radio operator may not have amber and white lights flashing all around the vehicle because it is not an emergency vehicle. OAG 19-09, 2019 Tenn. AG LEXIS 11 (7/3/2019).

55-4-203. Issuance — Category — Supplemental registration — Eligibility.

1. All registration plates issued under this part shall be issued in one (1) of the following categories:
   1. Antique motor vehicle;
   2. Cultural;
   3. Dealer;
   4. Disabled;
   5. Emergency;
   6. Firefighter;
   7. General assembly;
   8. Government service;
   9. Judiciary;
   10. Legislator Emeritus;
   11. Memorial;
   12. National Guard;
   13. New specialty earmarked;
   14. OEM headquarters company;
   15. Off-highway vehicles:
       1. Class I off-highway vehicles; and
       2. Class II off-highway vehicles;
   16. Sheriff;
   17. Specialty earmarked;
   18. United States house of representatives;
   19. United States judge; and
   20. United States senate.
2. 1. Registration plates currently provided under the “dealer,” “government service,” “disabled,” and “national guard” categories shall be issued in design configurations and colors which distinguish the plates from those of other categories, and in a manner which would avoid confusion with any other registration plates.
   2. Registration plates issued in any other category shall be issued in a design configuration distinctive to that category and determined by the commissioner, and shall bear at the top of the plate the word “Tennessee” or “Tenn” and at the bottom the name of the category. In addition, the plates in each category may bear identifying letter prefixes to distinguish the group within the category, and shall bear identifying number suffixes to identify the individual registrant.
3. The groups within each category having multiple plates shall be as follows:
   1. Emergency:
      1. Amateur radio;
      2. Auxiliary police;
      3. Civil air patrol;
      4. Civil defense;
      5. Rescue squad;
      6. Emergency services squad, including, but not limited to, emergency medical technicians and paramedics;
      7. Police officer;
      8. Trauma physicians;
      9. Trauma nurses;
      10. On-call surgical personnel;
      11. Constables;
      12. Tennessee state guard; and
      13. United States coast guard auxiliary;
   2. Judiciary:
      1. Supreme court;
      2. Court of appeals;
      3. Court of criminal appeals;
      4. Chancery court;
      5. Circuit court;
      6. Probate court;
      7. Juvenile court;
      8. General sessions court;
      9. Retired judges of courts, not-of-record;
      10. Municipal court judges; and
      11. Magistrates;
   3. National Guard:
      1. Enlisted;
      2. Honorably discharged members;
      3. Officers; and
      4. Retirees;
   4. Memorial:
      1. Air Force Cross recipient;
      2. Air Medal (Valor) recipients;
      3. Bronze Star (Valor) recipients;
      4. Disabled veteran;
      5. Distinguished Flying Cross recipients;
      6. Distinguished Service Cross recipient;
      7. Former prisoner of war;
      8. Gold star family;
      9. Holder of the Purple Heart;
      10. Medal of honor recipient;
      11. Navy Cross recipient; and
      12. Silver Star recipients;
   5. Cultural:
      1. Antique Auto (unrestricted use) [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      2. Arts, as provided for in § 55-4-217 and § 55-4-240;
      3. Collegiate, as defined in § 55-4-201:
         1. Bryan College;
         2. Cumberland University [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
         3. Penn State University;
         4. University of Arkansas;
         5. University of Florida;
         6. University of Mississippi;
         7. All collegiate plates issued as cultural motor vehicle registration plates prior to July 1, 1998; and
         8. All collegiate plates administratively issued by the department on or after July 1, 1998, pursuant to § 55-4-210;
      4. Delta Kappa Gamma Society International;
      5. Honorary consular;
      6. Metropolitan council;
      7. Military:
         1. 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne);
         2. Air Medal (Meritorious) recipients;
         3. Blue star family;
         4. Bronze Star (Meritorious) recipients;
         5. Combat veterans;
         6. Disabled Veteran (service-connected);
         7. “Enemy Evadees” as certified by the department of veterans services;
         8. Honorably discharged veterans of the United States Armed Forces;
         9. Legion of Merit recipients;
         10. Marine Corps League;
         11. Paratrooper;
         12. Pearl Harbor survivors;
         13. Rakkasans;
         14. Submarine veteran;
         15. Tennessee woman veteran, pursuant to § 55-4-267;
         16. United States military, active forces, pursuant to § 55-4-252;
         17. United States military, honorably discharged members, pursuant to § 55-4-252;
         18. United States military, retired forces, pursuant to § 55-4-252;
         19. United States reserve forces, pursuant to § 55-4-254;
         20. United States reserve forces, honorably discharged members, pursuant to § 55-4-252;
         21. United States reserve forces, retired, pursuant to § 55-4-252; and
         22. Women Veterans of Color;
      8. Personalized, pursuant to §§ 55-4-210 and 55-4-214;
      9. Police Benevolent Association; and
      10. Retired female firefighter;
   6. Specialty earmarked:
      1. Agriculture;
      2. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority;
      3. Alpha Phi Alpha;
      4. CHILDREN FIRST!;
      5. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.;
      6. Ducks Unlimited;
      7. Environmental;
      8. Friends of Great Smoky Mountains;
      9. Helping school volunteer;
      10. Kappa Alpha Psi;
      11. Nongame and endangered wildlife species or “Watchable Wildlife”;
      12. Omega Psi Phi;
      13. Phi Beta Sigma;
      14. Supporters of Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital; and
      15. Zeta Phi Beta; and
   7. New specialty earmarked plates, as defined in § 55-4-201:
      1. 101st Airborne Screaming Eagle;
      2. A Soldier's Child [Obsolete. See the Compiler’s Notes.];
      3. African American Breast Cancer Awareness;
      4. ALS Awareness;
      5. Alumni Program of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville;
      6. Alzheimer's Association [Obsolete. See the Compiler’s Notes.];
      7. AMVETS [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      8. Animal Friendly;
      9. Appalachian Trail;
      10. Autism Awareness;
      11. Baylor School [Obsolete. See the Compiler’s Notes.];
      12. BE NICE [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      13. Big Brothers Big Sisters;
      14. Blood Donor [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      15. Boone Lake Association [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      16. Boy Scouts of America [Obsolete. See the Compiler’s Notes.];
      17. Chattanooga Football Club [Obsolete. See the Compiler’s Notes.];
      18. Childhood Cancer Awareness;
      19. Childhood Hunger Awareness [Obsolete. See the Compiler’s Notes.];
      20. Children's Hospital at Erlanger [Obsolete. See the Compiler’s Notes.];
      21. Choose Life;
      22. Civil War Preservation;
      23. Combat Action [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      24. Cystic Fibrosis Awareness [Obsolete. See the Compiler’s Notes.];
      25. D.A.R.E. [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      26. Diabetes Awareness [Obsolete. See the Compiler’s Notes.];
      27. Dollywood Foundation;
      28. Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Awareness [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      29. Down Syndrome Awareness;
      30. “Driving To A Cure” (Pink Ribbon);
      31. Eagle Foundation;
      32. East Tennessee Children's Hospital;
      33. Eastern Star [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      34. Enjoy the Ride;
      35. Fallen Linemen [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      36. Fallen Police and Firefighters [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      37. Fighting for At-Risk Youth [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      38. Fish and wildlife species;
      39. Fraternal Order of Police;
      40. Friends of Shelby Park and Bottoms;
      41. Friends of Sycamore Shoals Historic Area, Inc.;
      42. Germantown Charity Horse Show [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      43. Greene County School System;
      44. Habitat for Humanity;
      45. Historic Collierville [Obsolete. See the Compiler’s Notes.];
      46. Historic Franklin;
      47. Historic Maury [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      48. Historic Whitehaven [Obsolete. See the Compiler’s Notes.];
      49. I RECYCLE;
      50. I Stand with Israel [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      51. In Remembrance [Obsolete. See the Compiler’s Notes.];
      52. International Association of Firefighters;
      53. Isaiah 117 House;
      54. Jackson State University;
      55. Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Scenic Trail State Park [Obsolete. See the Compiler’s Notes.];
      56. Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      57. Kiwanis International [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      58. Knights of Columbus [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      59. Le Bonheur Children's Medical Center;
      60. Linemen Power Tennessee;
      61. Louisiana State University [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      62. Loyal Order of Moose;
      63. Lung Cancer Awareness [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      64. Make-A-Wish Foundation [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      65. Make-A-Wish Foundation;
      66. Martin Luther King, Jr. [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      67. Masons;
      68. Memphis Grizzlies;
      69. Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum;
      70. Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare;
      71. Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt;
      72. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD);
      73. Mountain Tough [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      74. Nashville Parks Foundation [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      75. Nashville Predators;
      76. National Rifle Association;
      77. National Wild Turkey Federation;
      78. Niswonger Children's Hospital;
      79. North Carolina State University [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      80. Nurses;
      81. Ohio State University [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      82. Order of The Eastern Star [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      83. Pat Summitt Foundation;
      84. Police Activities League [Obsolete. See the Compiler’s Notes.];
      85. Prostate Cancer Awareness [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      86. Protecting Rivers and Clean Waters;
      87. Radnor Lake;
      88. Regional Medical Center at Memphis (The MED);
      89. Rotary International [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      90. Save the Bees;
      91. Service Dogs [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      92. Service Dogs Changing Lives;
      93. Share the Road;
      94. Smallmouth bass;
      95. Sons of Confederate Veterans;
      96. Sportsman;
      97. Strictly Vettes [Obsolete. See the Compiler’s Notes.];
      98. Suicide Prevention [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      99. Support Our Troops;
      100. Tennessee Association of Realtors;
      101. Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and Industry;
      102. Tennis Memphis [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      103. Tennessee School Nutrition Association [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      104. Tennessee Sheriffs' Association;
      105. Tennessee Tech University [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      106. Tennessee Titans;
      107. Tennessee Voices for Victims [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      108. Tennessee Walking Horse;
      109. Tennessee Wildlife Federation;
      110. Tennessee Wildlife Federation nongame and education programs;
      111. The Center for Living and Learning, Inc.;
      112. The Fairgrounds Nashville [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      113. TN Back the Blue [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      114. Trout Unlimited;
      115. University of Miami;
      116. University of South Carolina [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      117. University of Tennessee Health Science Center;
      118. University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers' NCAA National Championships;
      119. University of Tennessee National Championship;
      120. University of Texas;
      121. VFW [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      122. West Virginia University;
      123. Whitehaven High School [Obsolete. See the Compiler's Notes.];
      124. Women's Suffrage Centennial;
      125. Youth Villages.
4. 1. No registration plate shall be issued under this section unless authorized by this part. Registration under this part is supplemental to the motor vehicle title and registration law, compiled in chapters 1-6 of this title, and nothing in this part shall be construed as abridging or amending that law. An applicant with more than one (1) motor vehicle titled or leased in that applicant's name, or applicants with more than one (1) motor vehicle jointly titled and/or leased in their names are entitled to an unlimited number of registration plates under the applicable provision of law, as long as all other special fees and regular costs are paid by the applicant and all requirements set out in parts 1 and 2 of this chapter are followed.
   2. No qualified person shall receive more than one (1) free plate, unless the issuance of additional free plates is specifically authorized by the statute creating the cultural, specialty earmarked or new specialty earmarked plate, memorial plate or special purpose plate.
5. Registration plates issued to United States judges, United States senators, and members of the United States house of representatives pursuant to subdivisions (a)(9) and (a)(16)-(18) shall be of a distinctive design approved by the department and shall bear, as applicable, the district number of house members, the number “1” or “2” for senators, based on seniority, and the appropriate number for judges, based on seniority of appointment. Unless a conflict exists with other designs, the designs used before July 1, 1984, shall be used.
6. Whenever a spouse having a cultural, specialty earmarked or new specialty earmarked plate, memorial plate or special purpose plate is divorced and no longer entitled to the plate, the spouse no longer entitled to that plate shall deliver the plate to the county clerk, and the county clerk shall issue a regular plate valid for the same period as the cultural, specialty earmarked or new specialty earmarked plate, memorial plate or special purpose plate.
7. 1. Registration plates issued to honorary consulars pursuant to subdivision (c)(5)(C) shall be of a distinctive design approved by the department and shall bear, as applicable, the words “Honorary Consul” and an appropriate number.
   2. The revised honorary consular plates issued pursuant to this section shall be delivered to qualified persons upon renewal of registration of the vehicle to which the plates are issued. No person with honorary consular plates shall be required to exchange the plates until the renewal of registration of the vehicle to which the plates are issued.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 1998 ch. 1113, § 1; 1998, ch. 1114, § 1; 1998, ch. 1115, § 1; 1998, ch. 1116, § 1; 1998, ch. 1117, § 1; 1998, ch. 1118, § 1; 1998, ch. 1119, § 1; 1998, ch. 1120, § 1; 1998, ch. 1121, § 1; 1998, ch. 1122, § 1; 1998, ch. 1123, § 1; 1998, ch. 1124, § 1; 1998, ch. 1130, § 1; 1998, ch. 1132, § 1; 1998, ch. 1133, § 1; 1999, ch. 3, § 1; 1999, ch. 9, §§ 4, 5; 1999, ch. 42, § 1; 1999, ch. 46, § 1; 1999, ch. 71, § 1; 1999, ch. 132, § 1; 1999, ch. 281, § 1; 1999, ch. 290, § 1; 1999, ch. 292, § 1; 1999, ch. 316, § 1; 1999, ch. 400, § 1; 1999, ch. 416, § 1; 1999, ch. 449, §§ 1, 3; 1999, ch. 529, § 1; 2002, ch. 633, §§ 1, 4; 2002, ch. 876, §§ 4, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31, 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47, 49, 51, 53, 55, 57, 59, 61; 2003, ch. 130, § 1; 2003, ch. 135, § 1; 2003, ch. 140, § 1; 2003, ch. 147, § 1; 2003, ch. 151, § 1; 2003, ch. 165, § 1; 2003, ch. 265, § 1; 2003, ch. 280, § 4; 2003, ch. 372, § 1; 2003, ch. 417, §§ 1, 4; 2004, ch. 787, § 2; 2004, ch. 788, § 1; 2004, ch. 789, § 1; 2004, ch. 790, § 1; 2004, ch. 791, § 1; 2004, ch. 792, § 1; 2004, ch. 793, § 1; 2004, ch. 794, § 1; 2004, ch. 795, § 1; 2004, ch. 933, § 1; 2004, ch. 934, § 1; 2004, ch. 935, § 1; 2004, ch. 936, §§ 1, 3, 5; 2004, ch. 937, § 1; 2004, ch. 938, § 1; 2005, ch. 506, §§ 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 17, 21; 2006, ch. 911, §§ 1, 2; 2006, ch. 964, §§ 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 15, 19, 21, 26; 2007, ch. 17, §§ 1, 2; 2007, ch. 63, § 1; 2007, ch. 484, § 43; 2007, ch. 604, §§ 1, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 18, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 39, 41, 42; 2008, ch. 1165, §§ 1, 4, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 20, 22, 25, 27, 30, 32, 34, 36, 41, 43, 48, 50, 52, 54, 57, 59, 62; 2009, ch. 530, §§ 117, 118; 2009, ch. 589, §§ 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 36, 38, 39; 2010, ch. 1151, §§ 3, 6, 9, 12, 14, 16, 18, 23, 25, 28, 31, 33, 35, 37, 42, 44, 48, 50, 56; 2011, ch. 491, §§ 1, 4, 6, 9, 11, 14, 16, 20, 22, 28, 31, 33, 35, 39; 2012, ch. 543, § 1; 2012, ch. 545, § 1; 2012, ch. 546, § 1; 2012, ch. 587, § 1; 2012, ch. 590, § 1; 2012, ch. 593, § 1; 2012, ch. 597, § 1; 2012, ch. 702, § 1; 2012, ch. 746, § 1; 2012, ch. 749, § 1; 2012, ch. 768, § 1; 2012, ch. 769, § 1; 2012, ch. 782, § 1; 2012, ch. 827, § 1; 2012, ch. 864, § 1; 2012, ch. 868, § 1; 2012, ch. 920, §§ 1, 3; 2013, ch. 183, § 4; 2013, ch. 303, § 1; 2013, ch. 308, § 18(2); 2013, ch. 318, §§ 6, 7; 2013, ch. 484, §§ 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 20, 22, 24; 2014, ch. 941, §§ 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 13, 14, 15, 19, 21; 2014, ch. 966, §§ 2, 4, 24; 2015, ch. 24, § 7; 2015, ch. 383, §§ 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 18, 21, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31, 33, 37, 39; 2016, ch. 790, § 4; 2016, ch. 825, § 1; 2016, ch. 879, §§ 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31, 35, 36; 2017, ch. 97, § 1; 2017, ch. 359, § 3; 2017, ch. 384, §§ 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31, 33, 35, 39; 2018, ch. 926, § 2; 2018, ch. 1023, §§ 1, 3, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 29, 31, 33, 35, 37, 49, 54; T.C.A. 55-4-202; Acts 2019, ch. 64, § 1; 2019, ch. 253, §§ 4, 6, 8, 11, 13, 16, 19, 21, 23, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 41, 43, 48; 2020, ch. 660, §§ 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 41, 43, 48.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Provisions of Acts 1998, chs. 1113, 1114, 1116-1124, 1130, 1132 and 1133, concerning the issuance of cultural and new specialty earmarked registration plates, which conflicted with the provisions of Acts 1998, ch. 1063, were not codified. For provisions governing the issuance of such plates and the distribution of fees from such issuances, see §§ 55-4-201, 55-4-202, 55-4-209, 55-4-210 and 55-4-214—55-4-220.

The division of motor vehicles was transferred from the department of revenue to the department of safety by Executive Order No. 37 (June 29, 1990).

Acts 2002, ch. 876, § 64 provided that the provisions of subsection (f) of this section shall not apply to that act.

Acts 2002, ch. 876, § 65 provided that the commissioner of safety is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to effectuate the provisions of that act. All such rules and regulations shall be promulgated in accordance with the provisions of the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5.

Acts 2006, ch. 911, § 4 provided that the act shall apply to the issuance and renewal of all Masons license plates on or after July 1, 2006.

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2008, ch. 1165.

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2009, ch. 589.

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2010, ch. 1151.

In view of § 55-4-201(h) [now § 55-4-202(g)], former provisions concerning the new specialty earmarked plates for Adoption, Fisk Jubilee Singers, Habitat for Humanity, Harpeth River Watershed Association, Kappa Delta Sorority, Prince Hall Masons, Rotary International, SpiritHorse Therapeutic Riding, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, T. C. Thompson Children’s Hospital, Tennessee Equine Association, were deleted as obsolete and invalid in 2012, since these license plates failed to meet the minimum order requirements for issuance.

Acts 2013, ch. 318,  § 13, as amended by Acts 2014, ch. 966, § 28, provided that notwithstanding any law to the contrary, any person issued an Air Medal memorial license plate prior to June 21, 2013, shall be entitled to retain the plate for vehicular use upon compliance with all motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles. Any Air Medal military cultural plates initially issued to any recipient of the Air Medal (Meritorious) on or after May 13, 2013, shall be subject to the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and the fee provided for in § 55-4-203(c)(1) [now § 55-4-204(c)(1)]. Any Air Medal military cultural plates initially issued to any recipient of the Air Medal (Valor) on or after May 13, 2013, and prior to May 19, 2014, shall be memorial plates upon their first renewal on or after May 13, 2013; provided, that the plates shall not be subject to the regular registration fee and shall be free of charge pursuant to§ 55-4-203(b) [now § 55-4-204(b)].

Pursuant to the requirements of § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the former specialty license plates for Tennessee Veterans, Donate Life, Labrador Retriever Foundation, American Red Cross, National Civil Rights Museum, Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), American Lung Association, Tennessee Breast Cancer Coalition, Ronald McDonald House, FedEx Family House, Dogwood Arts, Music City Alumni Chapter of Western Kentucky University, Boy Scouts of America, Teamsters, Brain Injury Awareness, and Wilson County – The Place to Be! are declared to be obsolete since they did not qualify for initial issuance by the July 1, 2013, deadline.

Acts 2014, ch. 941, § 17, as amended by Acts 2015, ch. 383, §  35, and as amended by Acts 2017, ch. 384  §  52, provided that, notwithstanding § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the “Niswonger Children's Hospital” new specialty earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to  § 55-4-313 [now § 55-4-345] shall have until July 1, 2018, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)].

Acts 2014, ch. 966, § 29 provided that notwithstanding title 55, chapter 4, any person issued a Handicapped Veteran, Legion of Valor, Silver Star, Bronze Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, or Air Medal license plate prior to May 19, 2014, shall be entitled to retain the license plate for vehicular use upon compliance with all motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles.

Pursuant to the requirements of § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the former specialty license plates for Concerned Motorcyclists of Tennessee/American Bikers Active Toward Education, Alpha Eta Rho International Aviation Fraternity, Vanderbilt University Athletic Department, Northwest Tennessee Disaster Service, Suicide Prevention, Safe Schools, Tennessee Theatre, Adoption, Sons of American Revolution, Historic Collierville, Tennessee Tennis, and Almost Home Animal Rescue are declared to be obsolete since they did not qualify for initial issuance by the July 1, 2014, deadline. Pursuant to Acts 2013, ch. 308, § 18(2), these obsolete entries have been deleted and the subdivisions redesignated accordingly.

Acts 2015, ch. 24,  § 7 provided that the Tennessee Code Commission is requested to change references in Tennessee Code Annotated, as volumes are replaced and supplements are issued, from “veterans’ affairs” and “veterans affairs” to “veterans services” wherever the language appears in reference to the name or commissioner of the Tennessee department of veterans services.

Pursuant to the requirements of § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the former specialty license plates for Chambliss Center for Children, Historic Gallatin, I RECYCLE, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Lung Cancer Alliance, McCallie School, and Tennessee Federation of Garden Clubs are declared to be obsolete since they did not qualify for initial issuance by the July 1, 2015 deadline.

Pursuant to the requirements of § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the former specialty license plates for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), 2014 College World Series Champions — Vanderbilt University, Alzheimer's Association, Cystic Fibrosis Awareness, Donate Life, Germantown Charity Horse Show, Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, Inc., Music City Inc. Foundation, Native American Indian Association, Scenic and Historic Gallatin, Soulsville, U.S.A., Supporters of the Blind and Visually Impaired, Tennessee Vietnam Veterans, Inc., Vanderbilt University Athletic Department, and Wingz of Love Foundation are declared to be obsolete since they did not qualify for initial issuance by the July 1, 2016 deadline.

Acts 2017, ch. 384,  § 53 provided that notwithstanding  § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the Pat Summitt Foundation  new specialty earmarked license plates authorized pursuant to § 55-4-315 [see § 55-4-355] shall have until July 1, 2018, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)].

Pursuant to the requirements of § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the former specialty license plates for Be Nice, Combat Action, D.A.R.E., Down Syndrome Awareness, Eastern Star, Fallen Linemen, Fallen Police and Firefighters, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Nashville Parks Foundation, Prostate Cancer Awareness, Rotary International, Tennessee Schools Nutrition Association, Tennessee Tech University, The Fairgrounds Nashville, and Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFWs) are declared to be obsolete since they did not qualify for initial issuance by the July 1, 2017 deadline.

Pursuant to the requirements of § 55-4-201(h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(g)(1)], the former specialty license plates for A Soldier's Child, Alzheimer's Association, Baylor School, Boy Scouts of America, Chattanooga Football Club, Childhood Cancer Awareness, Childhood Hunger Awareness, Cystic Fibrosis Awareness, Diabetes Awareness, Germantown Charity Horse Show, Historic Collierville, Historic Whitehaven, In Remembrance, Justin P Wilson Cumberland Trail State Scenic Trail State Park, Police Activities League, Strictly Vettes, are declared to be obsolete since they did not qualify for initial issuance by the July 1, 2018 deadline.

Pursuant to the requirements of §  55-4-201(h)(1) [now §  55-4-202(g)(1)], the former speciality license plates for Boone Lake Association, Cumberland University, Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Awareness, Historic Maury, Kiwanis International, Louisiana State University, Lung Cancer Awareness, Mothers Against Drunk Driving MADD, Mountain Tough, North Carolina State University, Ohio State University, Suicide Prevention, Stand For Israel, TN Back The Blue, and University of South Carolina are declared to be obsolete since they did not qualify for initial issuance by the July 1, 2019 deadline.

Pursuant to the requirements of §  55-4-202(g)(1), the former speciality license plate for the Children’s Hospital at Erlanger did not meet  its minimum registration requirements for two consecutive renewal periods; therefore, this plate became obsolete as of July 1, 2020.

Pursuant to the requirements of §  55-4-202(g)(1), the former speciality license plates for AMVETS,  Antique Auto (unrestricted use), Blood Donor, Fighting for At-Risk Youth, Germantown Charity Horse Show, Greene County School System (reauthorized by 2020 legislation), Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), Knights of Columbus, Martin Luther King, Jr., Order of The Eastern Star, Service Dogs, Tennis Memphis, Tennessee Voices for Victims, and Whitehaven High School are declared to be obsolete since they did not qualify for initial issuance by the July 1, 2020 deadline.

Amendments. The 2020 amendment, in (c)(5), added “Antique Auto”, “Delta Kappa Gamma Society”, “Disabled Veteran (service-connected)” and, in (c)(7), added “101st Airborne Screaming Eagle”, “African American Breast Cancer Awareness”, “ALS Awareness”, “Alumni Program of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville”, “Big Brothers Big Sisters”, “Childhood Cancer Awareness”, “Enjoy the Ride”, “Greene County School System”, “Habitat for Humanity”, “I RECYCLE”, “Isiah 117 House”, “Loyal Order of Moose”, “Make-A-Wish Foundation”, “Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)”, “Service Dogs Changing Lives”, “Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and Industry”, “University of Miami”, “University of Texas”, “West Virginia University”, and “Women's Suffrage Centennial”.

Effective Dates. Acts 2020, ch. 660, § 51. July 1, 2020.

Cross-References. 101st Airborne Screaming Eagle, §  55-4-385.

African American Breast Cancer Awareness, §  55-4-374.

ALS Awareness, §  55-4-372.

Alumni Program of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, §  55-4-340.

Amateur radio station licensees, § 55-4-225.

Animal Friendly specialty license plates, § 55-4-317.

Autism Awareness, § 55-4-354.

Big Brothers Big Sisters, §  55-4-386.

Blue star family, § 55-4-265.

Bronze Star (Meritorious) and Air Medal (Meritorious) recipients, § 55-4-260.

Childhood Cancer Awareness, §  55-4-375.

Children First, § 55-4-291.

Class C misdemeanor for violations of title 55, chapters 1-4, § 55-5-120.

Dealers category plates, § 55-4-226.

Delta Kappa Gamma Society International, §  55-4-233.

Disabled drivers, § 55-4-209.

Disabled Veteran (service-connected), §  55-4-377.

Disabled veterans, § 55-4-256.

Dollywood Foundation, § 55-4-352.

Down Syndrome Awareness, § 55-4-371.

East Tennessee Children's Hospital, § 55-4-343.

Emergency category plates, § 55-4-223.

Enjoy the Ride, §  55-4-384.

Fees for new specialty earmarked plates, § 55-4-204.

Fish and wildlife species plates, § 55-4-307.

Friends of Shelby Park and Bottoms, §  55-4-313.

Friends of Sycamore Shoals Historic Area, Inc., §  55-4-323.

Former prisoners of war, § 55-4-261.

Fraternal Order of Police plates, § 55-4-326.

General assembly members, § 55-4-220.

Governmental service plates, § 55-4-219.

Greene County School System, §  55-4-382.

Habitat for Humanity, §  55-4-378.

Holders of the Purple Heart, § 55-4-257.

I RECYCLE, §  55-4-360.

Isaiah 117 House, §  55-4-377.

Jackson State University, §  55-4-366.

Judiciary members, § 55-4-221.

Legion of Merit, §  55-4-275.

Legislator Emeritus, § 55-4-229.

Linemen Power Tennessee, §  55-4-361.

Loyal Order of Moose, §  55-4-376.

Make-A-Wish Foundation, §  55-4-373.

Medal of Honor § 55-4-258.

Medal of Honor recipients, § 55-4-259.

Members of 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), § 55-4-273.

Memorial registration plates, § 55-4-250.

Memphis Grizzlies, § 55-4-336.

Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, § 55-4-364.

Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, § 55-4-347.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), §  55-4-380.

National guard members, § 55-4-255.

Niswonger Children's Hospital plates, § 55-4-345.

Nurse plates, § 55-4-348.

Paratrooper,  § 55-4-272.

Pat Summitt Foundation, § 55-4-355.

Protecting Rivers and Clean Waters, § 55-4-314.

Radnor Lake plates, § 55-4-315.

Rakkasans, § 55-4-274.

Save the Bees, § 55-4-318.

Service Dogs Changing Lives, §  55-4-383.

Submarine veteran, § 55-4-268.

Support Our Troops plates, § 55-4-324.

Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and Industry, §  55-4-379.

Tennessee Sheriffs' Association, § 55-4-325.

The Center for Living and Learning, lnc, §  55-4-381.

University of Miami, §  55-4-367.

University of Tennessee Health Science Center, §  55-4-341.

University of Texas, §  55-4-368.

West Virginia University, §  55-4-369.

Women's Suffrage Centennial, §  55-4-387.

Women Veterans of Color, §  55-4-276.

Attorney General Opinions. Subsection (c)(1) of T.C.A. § 54-2-202 and T.C.A. § 55-4-222 [now § 54-2-203 and T.C.A. § 55-4-223] do not authorize the issuance of emergency license plates to trauma physicians except to the extent that such physicians may also be authorized to receive such plates by virtue of membership in a group to whose members such plates may be issued, OAG 03-163; 2003 Tenn. AG LEXIS 178 (12/23/03).

55-4-204. Fees.

1. In addition to title, registration, transfer or other fees or taxes otherwise applicable under this title, persons applying for and receiving registration plates under this part shall pay additional fees as follows:
   1. Antique motor vehicle — thirty dollars ($30.00), pursuant to § 55-4-111(a)(1) Class C and as provided for in § 55-4-111(b);
   2. Dealers, as provided for in § 55-4-226;
   3. Disabled — regular fee applicable to the vehicle, except as expressly provided otherwise in § 55-21-103;
   4. Emergency:
      1. Amateur radio:
         1. Regular fee applicable to the vehicle, if the applicant meets the qualifications of § 55-4-225(e); or
         2. Twenty-five dollars ($25.00), if the applicant does not meet the qualifications of § 55-4-225(e);
      2. On-call surgical personnel — regular fee applicable to the vehicle and as provided for in § 55-4-223(i);
      3. Police officer — regular fee applicable to the vehicle and as provided for in § 55-4-223(f);
      4. Regular fee applicable to the vehicle and as provided for in § 55-4-223 for the following special purpose plates:
         1. Auxiliary police;
         2. Civil air patrol;
         3. Civil defense;
         4. Constables;
         5. Emergency services squad, including, but not limited to, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, emergency medical technician-paramedics, other emergency medical services providers or emergency medical responders, or physicians or nurses on the scene or accompanying or attending a patient in an ambulance; and
         6. Rescue squad;
      5. Tennessee state guard — regular fee applicable to the vehicle and a fee proportionately equal to the cost of actually designing and manufacturing the plates to ensure that the issuance of the plates is revenue neutral; provided, that the fee shall only be applicable upon initial issuance or reissuance of the plates provided for in this section and shall not be applicable at the time of renewal;
      6. Trauma nurses — regular fee applicable to the vehicle and as provided for in § 55-4-223(h);
      7. Trauma physicians — regular fee applicable to the vehicle and as provided for in § 55-4-223(g); and
      8. United States coast guard auxiliary — regular fee applicable to the vehicle and a fee proportionately equal to the cost of actually designing and manufacturing the plates to ensure that the issuance of the plates is revenue neutral; provided, that the fee shall only be applicable upon initial issuance or reissuance of the plates provided for in this section and shall not be applicable at the time of renewal;
   5. Firefighter — regular fee applicable to the vehicle and as provided for in § 55-4-224;
   6. General assembly — twenty-five dollars ($25.00);
   7. Government service — as provided for in § 55-4-219;
   8. Judiciary — twenty-five dollars ($25.00);
   9. National guard: enlisted, officers, retirees and honorably discharged members — as provided for in § 55-4-255;
   10. Sheriff — twenty-five dollars ($25.00);
   11. Street rod — fifty dollars ($50.00) and as provided for in § 55-4-318 [obsolete];
   12. United States house of representatives — twenty-five dollars ($25.00);
   13. United States judge — twenty-five dollars ($25.00);
   14. United States senate — twenty-five dollars ($25.00);
   15. Regular fee as provided for in Class H of § 55-4-111(a)(1) and as provided for in part 7 of this chapter for Class I off-highway vehicles and Class II off-highway vehicles; and
   16. Legislator Emeritus — twenty-five dollars ($25.00).
2. The following plates shall be issued free of charge and in the number specified by the section authorizing the issuance of the individual plate; provided, that the appropriate criteria are met by the applicant:

   Memorial:

   1. Air Force Cross recipients;
   2. Air Medal (Valor) recipients;
   3. Bronze Star (Valor) recipients;
   4. Disabled Veterans, including those disabled veterans who choose to receive the Purple Heart plate pursuant to § 55-4-257(e);
   5. Distinguished Flying Cross recipients;
   6. Distinguished Service Cross recipients;
   7. Former Prisoner of War;
   8. Gold star family;
   9. Holder of the Purple Heart;
   10. Medal of Honor recipients;
   11. Navy Cross recipients; and
   12. Silver Star recipients.
3. 1. The following military cultural plates shall be issued upon the payment of the regular registration fee and a fee equal to the cost of actually designing and manufacturing the plates; provided, that the issuance of these plates shall be revenue neutral:
      1. 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne);
      2. Air Medal (Meritorious) recipients;
      3. Blue Star family;
      4. Bronze Star (Meritorious) recipients;
      5. Combat veterans;
      6. Disabled Veteran (service-connected);
      7. “Enemy Evadees,” as certified by the department of veterans services, pursuant to § 55-4-263;
      8. Honorably discharged veterans of the United States armed forces, pursuant to § 55-4-253;
      9. Legion of Merit recipients;
      10. Marine Corps League;
      11. Paratrooper;
      12. Pearl Harbor survivors, pursuant to § 55-4-262;
      13. Rakkasans;
      14. Submarine veteran;
      15. Tennessee woman veteran, pursuant to § 55-4-267;
      16. United States military, active forces, pursuant to § 55-4-252;
      17. United States military, honorably discharged members, pursuant to § 55-4-252;
      18. United States military, retired, pursuant to § 55-4-252;
      19. United States reserve forces, honorably discharged members, pursuant to § 55-4-252;
      20. United States reserve forces, pursuant to § 55-4-254;
      21. United States reserve forces, retired, pursuant to § 55-4-252; and
      22. Women Veterans of Color.
   2. Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, the payment of the fee equal to the cost of actually designing and manufacturing the plates provided in subdivision (c)(1) shall only be applicable upon initial issuance or reissuance of the plates specified in subdivision (c)(1) and shall not be applicable at the time of renewal.
4. All other cultural, specialty earmarked and new specialty earmarked plates authorized by this part shall be issued upon the payment of a fee of thirty-five dollars ($35.00), in addition to the regular registration fee, in accordance with § 55-4-202(b)(2).
5. OEM headquarters company plates shall be issued free of charge as provided for in § 55-4-227.
6. For purposes related to this chapter, the department may authorize the state treasurer to establish a program for the sale of nonrefundable gift vouchers, gift cards, rebates, incentives, debit cards or any other form of electronic payments. The state treasurer, or designated entity, may administer all or any portion of the program regarding the use of such gift vouchers, gift cards, rebates, incentives, debit cards or any other form of electronic payments. The treasurer may charge for reasonable administration costs, or authorize the designated entity to charge a fee to defray such costs.

Acts 1984, ch. 966, § 1; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 5, 12; 1987, ch. 172, § 5; 1988, ch. 618, § 2; 1988, ch. 687, § 2; 1988, ch. 781, § 3; 1988, ch. 864, § 2; 1990, ch. 925, § 3; 1991, ch. 482, § 6; 1992, ch. 846, § 2; 1992, ch. 1008, § 2; 1993, ch. 105, § 2; 1993, ch. 236, § 2; 1993, ch. 446, § 2; 1994, ch. 624, § 2; 1994, ch. 665, § 2; 1994, ch. 930, § 2; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 2-4; 1995, ch. 122, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, § 2; 1995, ch. 399, § 2; 1996, ch. 615, § 2; 1996, ch. 658, § 2; 1996, ch. 672, § 5; 1996, ch. 673, § 2; 1996, ch. 854, § 2; 1996, ch. 914, § 2; 1996, ch. 963, § 2; 1996, ch. 965, § 3; 1996, ch. 971, § 2; 1996, ch. 994, § 2; 1996, ch. 1024, § 2; 1996, ch. 1030, § 4; 1996, ch. 1047, § 3; 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 1999, ch. 98, § 3; 2002, ch. 633, §§ 2, 5; 2002, ch. 866, § 1; 2002, ch. 876, §§ 2, 5; 2003, ch. 280, § 5; 2004, ch. 933, § 2; 2004, ch. 937, § 2; 2006, ch. 964, §§ 16, 27; 2007, ch. 63, § 2; 2007, ch. 604, §§ 19, 43, 44; 2008, ch. 924, § 13; 2008, ch. 1165, §§ 5, 8, 23, 31, 44; 2009, ch. 530, § 119; 2010, ch. 1151, §§ 7, 10; 2011, ch. 491, § 23; 2013, ch. 318, §§ 8, 9; 2014, ch. 869, § 1; 2014, ch. 966, §§ 3, 5, 25; 2015, ch. 24, § 7; 2016, ch. 790, § 5; 2017, ch. 97, § 4; 2017, ch. 384, § 37; 2018, ch. 926, § 3; 2018, ch. 1023, §§ 4, 24, 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-203; Acts 2019, ch. 253, §§ 17, 42; 2019, ch. 254, § 1; 2020, ch. 597, § 1; 2020, ch. 660, § 44.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Provisions of Acts 1998, chs. 1113, 1114, 1116-1124, 1130, 1132 and 1133, concerning the issuance of cultural and new specialty earmarked registration plates, which conflicted with the provisions of Acts 1998, ch. 1063, were not codified. For provisions governing the issuance of such plates and the distribution of fees from such issuances, see §§ 55-4-201, 55-4-202, 55-4-209, 55-4-210 and 55-4-214—55-4-220.

Acts 2002, ch. 876, § 65 provided that the commissioner of safety is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to effectuate the provisions of that act. All such rules and regulations shall be promulgated in accordance with the provisions of the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5.

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2008, ch. 1165.

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2010, ch. 1151.

Acts 2013, ch. 318,  § 13, as amended by Acts 2014, ch. 966, § 28, provided that notwithstanding any law to the contrary, any person issued an Air Medal memorial license plate prior to June 21, 2013, shall be entitled to retain the plate for vehicular use upon compliance with all motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles. Any Air Medal military cultural plates initially issued to any recipient of the Air Medal (Meritorious) on or after May 13, 2013, shall be subject to the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and the fee provided for in § 55-4-203(c)(1) [now § 55-4-204(c)(1)]. Any Air Medal military cultural plates initially issued to any recipient of the Air Medal (Valor) on or after May 13, 2013, and prior to May 19, 2014, shall be memorial plates upon their first renewal on or after May 13, 2013; provided, that the plates shall not be subject to the regular registration fee and shall be free of charge pursuant to § 55-4-203(b) [now § 55-4-204(b)].

Acts 2014, ch. 966, § 29 provided that notwithstanding title 55, chapter 4, any person issued a Handicapped Veteran, Legion of Valor, Silver Star, Bronze Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, or Air Medal license plate prior to May 19, 2014, shall be entitled to retain the license plate for vehicular use upon compliance with all motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles.

Acts 2015, ch. 24,  § 7 provided that the Tennessee Code Commission is requested to change references in Tennessee Code Annotated, as volumes are replaced and supplements are issued, from “veterans’ affairs” and “veterans affairs” to “veterans services” wherever the language appears in reference to the name or commissioner of the Tennessee department of veterans services.

Amendments. The 2020 amendment by ch. 597 inserted “, emergency medical technician-paramedics, other emergency medical services providers or emergency medical responders, or physicians or nurses on the scene or accompanying or attending a patient in an ambulance” in (a)(4)(D)(v).

The 2020 amendment by ch. 660 added “Disabled Veteran (service-connected);” in (c)(1).

Effective Dates. Acts 2020, ch. 597, § 4. July 1, 2020.

Acts 2020, ch. 660, § 51. July 1, 2020.

55-4-205. Seven characters maximum.

Registration plates issued under this part may bear up to seven (7) characters or positions for a passenger motor vehicle, recreational vehicle or truck of one-half  or three-quarter-ton rating, or, if authorized, up to six (6) characters or positions for a motorcycle.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-204.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Cross-References. Registration fees for dealers, manufacturers and transporters, § 55-4-117.

Law Reviews.

Evidence — 1963 Tennessee Survey (Lyman R. Patterson), 17 Vand. L. Rev. 1058.

55-4-206. Rules and regulations — Compliance with state license laws — Location for making application for plates — Waiver of county name requirement.

1. The commissioner, or any other department commissioner designated with responsibility in this section, shall make rules and regulations as are necessary to require compliance with all state license laws relating to the use and operation of a motor vehicle before issuing cultural, specialty earmarked or new specialty earmarked plates, memorial plates or special purpose plates in lieu of the regular Tennessee license plates, and all applications for the plates shall be made to the county clerk of the county wherein the applicant resides, unless provided for otherwise.
2. The commissioner is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to effectuate the purposes of this part. All such rules and regulations shall be promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5.
3. Notwithstanding § 55-4-103(b)(4), if additional space is needed on any cultural, specialty earmarked or new specialty earmarked plate, memorial plate or special purpose plate issued pursuant to this part for a logo or other identifying message, the commissioner shall be authorized to waive the requirement that the plates specify the name of the county of issue.
4. The commissioner is authorized to facilitate delivery of any new specialty earmarked, emergency, firefighter, national guard, memorial or military plate authorized for a motorcycle in this part in a manner that maximizes efficiency and costs, and is not unduly burdensome to either the department or county clerks.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, §§ 1, 6; 1999, ch.400, § 2; T.C.A. §§ 55-4-298, 55-4-299; Acts 2007, ch. 484, § 44; 2009, ch. 589, § 34; Acts 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-205.

Code Commission Notes.

Former §§ 55-4-298 and 55-4-299 were transferred to this section, as (c) and (b), respectively, in 1999, by authority of the Tennessee code commission.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2009, ch. 589.

55-4-207. Expiration and renewal.

1. Notwithstanding § 55-4-104 or other provisions of part 1 of this chapter, all license plates issued under this part and certificates of registration shall not expire on March 31 of each year, but rather shall expire pursuant to subsection (b).
2. With respect to motor vehicles using plates issued pursuant to this part, the commissioner shall establish a system of registration renewals at alternate intervals which will allow for the distribution of the registration workload as uniformly as is practicable throughout the calendar year. Registrations issued under the alternate method are valid for twelve (12) months, and expire on the last day of the last month of the registration period. However, during a transition period, or at any time thereafter when the commissioner shall determine that the volume of work for any given interval is unduly burdensome or costly, either registrations or renewals, or both of them, may be issued for terms of not less than six (6) months nor more than eighteen (18) months. The fee imposed for registration of any vehicle under the alternate interval method for a period of other than twelve (12) months shall be proportionate to the annual fee fixed for the vehicle and modified in no other manner, except that the proportional fee shall be rounded off to the nearest quarter of a dollar ($0.25).
3. Notwithstanding this section, dealer plates shall be issued and renewed pursuant to § 55-4-226.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. 55-4-206.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

55-4-208. Reimbursement of cost.

The cost of any registration plate that is provided without cost to an individual on account of employment, membership, or participation in any agency, department, organization, or governmental entity shall be reimbursed to the department by the agency, department, organization, or governmental entity of which the person is an employee, member, or participant.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-207.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

55-4-209. Disabled drivers.

1. Registration plates for disabled drivers shall be issued in accordance with this chapter and chapter 21 of this title.
2. 1. Persons who are eligible to purchase or receive a license plate or plates of distinctive design for disabled drivers pursuant to chapter 21 of this title may elect to personalize the plate or plates pursuant to §§ 55-4-214 and 55-21-103.
   2. Personalized plates for disabled drivers must bear the stylized wheelchair symbol or symbol of access in accordance with § 55-21-104.
   3. The issuance and renewal of plates for disabled drivers shall otherwise comply with §§ 55-4-214 and 55-4-218, including annual payment by the applicant of a twenty-five-dollar ($25.00) fee for each personalized plate in addition to the regular registration fee, if the regular registration fee is applicable.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023,  § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-224; Acts 2019, ch. 112, § 4.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Acts 2019, ch. 112, § 1 provided that the act shall be known and may be cited as the “Dynamic Accessibility Act.”

Acts 2019, ch. 112, § 8 provided that a state governmental entity that receives documentation from a federal agency that compliance with a provision of the act may jeopardize federal funding or grant money for the state governmental entity is not required to comply with such provision; provided, that the state governmental entity shall comply with each provision of the act that does not jeopardize such federal funding or grant money.

Provisions of Acts 1998, ch. 1128, concerning the issuance of cultural and new specialty earmarked registration plates, which conflicted with the provisions of Acts 1998, ch. 1063, were not codified. For provisions governing the issuance of such plates and the distribution of fees from such issuances, see §§ 55-4-201, 55-4-202, 55-4-209, 55-4-210 and 55-4-214—55-4-220 [see the parallel reference table under § 55-4-201 for present section designations].

The twenty-five dollar ($25.00) fee for personalized plates, referred to in this section, was increased to thirty-five dollars ($35.00) by Acts 2008, ch. 924, § 14, effective July 1, 2008.

55-4-210. Authorization; issuance.

1. The department is authorized to administratively issue personalized plates to qualified applicants; provided, that the minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-202(b)(3) and all other requirements of this part are met.
2. The department is additionally authorized to administratively issue collegiate plates, as defined in § 55-4-201, that have a special reference to or identification or information on a two-year or four-year college or university located within Tennessee or a four-year college or university located outside Tennessee to qualified applicants; provided, that the minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-202(b)(3) and all other requirements of this part are met for each classification of collegiate plates.
3. 1. All cultural, specialty earmarked and new specialty earmarked plates, including personalized and collegiate plates, may be issued for private passenger automobiles, recreational vehicles and trucks of one-half or three-quarter-ton rating, unless specifically prohibited by § 55-4-214.
   2. Personalized and collegiate plates may also be issued for motorcycles, provided the minimum issuance requirements of § 55-4-202(b)(3) are met.
4. 1. The commissioner shall not issue any license plate commemorating any practice which is contrary to the public policy of the state, nor shall the commissioner issue any license plate to any entity whose goals and objectives are contrary to the public policy of Tennessee.
   2. The commissioner shall refuse to issue any combination of letters, numbers or positions that may carry connotations offensive to good taste and decency or that are misleading.
5. Registration numbers for license plates issued pursuant to this part shall not conflict with or duplicate the registration numbers for any existing passenger, recreational, commercial, trailer or motor vehicle registration plates that are presently issued pursuant to statute, resolution, executive order, or custom.
6. 1. The department is authorized to design, issue, and renew, or to authorize a designee to issue and renew, off-highway vehicle plates for the following vehicles registered by residents of this state:
      1. Class I off-highway vehicles; and
      2. Class II off-highway vehicles.
   2. The department is authorized to design, issue, and renew, or to authorize a designee to issue and renew off-highway vehicle temporary permits in lieu of plates for off-highway vehicles registered by nonresidents; provided, however, that a nonresident may apply directly to the department for an off-highway vehicle permit. An off-highway vehicle temporary permit shall be valid for thirty (30) days.
   3. The department is authorized to contract with county clerks and with private vendors for the issuance and renewal of off-highway vehicle plates and off-highway temporary permits.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2007, ch. 484, § 46; 2016, ch. 790, § 7; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

55-4-211. Computerization of applications and records.

The commissioner is urged to take the necessary steps to computerize applications for and records of the cultural, specialty earmarked and new specialty earmarked plates, memorial plates and special purpose plates authorized by this part.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2007, ch. 484, § 45; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-208.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

55-4-212. Miscellaneous provisions.

1. This subsection (a) shall apply to the issuance and renewal of the cultural, specialty earmarked and new specialty earmarked plates authorized by this part, unless the section authorizing the issuance of an individual plate specifically provides otherwise:
   1. The plates enumerated in this subsection (a) shall be issued in conformity with § 55-4-203;
   2. The plates shall contain the logo, emblem, insignia, or other distinctive design of the agency, organization, purpose or other entity which is being honored or recognized by the issuance of that specific plate;
   3. The plates shall be designed in consultation with the commissioner and the department's taxpayer and vehicle services director, in addition to any other person or entity designated to be consulted relative to the design of the plate in the section authorizing an individual plate;
   4. The plates shall include:
      1. A unique identifying number not to exceed seven (7) characters or positions for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c)(1); or
      2. If authorized, a unique identifying number not to exceed six (6) positions or characters for a motorcycle;
   5. No two (2) applicants shall be assigned identical registration numbers or identical license plates;
   6. Any eligible person may elect to exchange a regular registration plate for a plate enumerated in subsection (a); provided, that the fees prescribed under § 55-4-204 are paid;
   7. The whole or parts of the additional fee prescribed by § 55-4-204 for a cultural, specialty earmarked or new specialty earmarked plate shall not be refunded for the exchange of a regular plate;
   8. Additional such plates may be obtained by any eligible person upon payment of the regular license fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, plus the payment of the fee prescribed in § 55-4-204;
   9. The plates enumerated in this subsection (a) shall be issued for the applicant's use only on the authorized motor vehicle, and in the event of a transfer of title, the transferor shall surrender the plate to the department through the county clerk;
   10. The plates may be transferred to another vehicle of the same weight class owned or leased by the same person upon proper application being made therefor and approved by the department; and
   11. It is unlawful for any person to whom the plates have been issued to knowingly permit them to be displayed on any motor vehicle, except as authorized by the department.
2. This section shall also apply to the issuance and renewal of special purpose plates and memorial plates, unless the section authorizing the issuance of an individual memorial or special purpose plate specifically provides otherwise.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2007, ch. 484, § 48; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-220.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

55-4-213. Promotional campaign.

1. To increase public knowledge of the availability of cultural, specialty earmarked and new specialty earmarked motor vehicle registration plates, the department shall conduct a promotional campaign, which shall include, but not be limited to, the inclusion of applications for, and information about, these plates with motor vehicle registration renewal notices.
2. The promotional campaign authorized in subsection (a) shall include, but not be limited to:
   1. The inclusion of the following information in the motor vehicle registration renewal notices:
      1. An application for cultural, specialty earmarked and new specialty earmarked plates;
      2. An explanation of the formula by which the additional fees for each plate are allocated; and
      3. An illustration of the plates, selected in consultation with the transportation and safety committee of the senate and transportation committee of the house of representatives; and
   2. The creation and distribution of a chart containing an illustration and the information required by subdivision (b)(1)(B) for each cultural, specialty earmarked and new specialty earmarked plate at each county clerk's office. The chart shall be printed on paper eight and one-half inches by seven inches (8½" x 7").
3. For any insert included in the mailing of renewal notices which originates from a county and which causes the total postal weight to be over one ounce (1 oz.) as permitted by the United States postal service, the county shall pay the increased cost of mailing. However, the weight of any notice of a vehicle emissions testing requirement shall not be included in the calculation of the total weight.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2008, ch. 1007, § 3; 2013, ch. 236, § 90; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

55-4-214. Personalized plates — Fees.

1. 1. In addition to the personalized plates authorized by § 55-4-210, an applicant may, through the payment of a personalization fee of thirty-five dollars ($35.00), in addition to the regular registration fee and the thirty-five-dollar ($35.00) fee established by § 55-4-202(b)(2), obtain certain cultural, specialty earmarked and new specialty earmarked plates with a personalized combination of numbers, letters, positions or a combination of numbers, letters and positions.
   2. The personalization fee shall be paid by the applicant upon the issuance and renewal of any personalized plate.
2. 1. An applicant for the issuance of personalized motor vehicle registration plates or the personalization of cultural, specialty earmarked or new specialty earmarked motor vehicle registration plates pursuant to subsection (a) or the renewal of those plates in a subsequent registration year shall file an application in the form and by the date as the department may require, indicating the numbers, letters, positions or combination, requested as a registration number.
   2. The registration number shall consist of not less than three (3) nor more than seven (7) numbers, letters, positions or combination of numbers, letters or positions for a passenger motor vehicle, truck of one-half or three-quarter-ton rating or recreational vehicle or trailer or semitrailer that is not required to be registered but that the owner desires to be registered pursuant to § 55-4-111(c)(3), or, if authorized, not less than three (3) nor more than six (6) numbers, letters, positions or combination of numbers, letters or positions for a motorcycle.
   3. Registration numbers issued pursuant to this section shall be in compliance with § 55-4-210(d) and (e).
3. The following plates shall not be eligible for personalization pursuant to this section, but may be personalized if the statute authorizing such plate permits or requires the plates to be personalized in some form:
   1. Dealer;
   2. Emergency;
   3. Firefighter, pursuant to § 55-4-224;
   4. General assembly;
   5. Government service;
   6. Honorary consular;
   7. Judiciary;
   8. Memorial, as enumerated in § 55-4-203(c)(4) and defined in § 55-4-250;
   9. Metropolitan council;
   10. Military, as enumerated in § 55-4-203(c)(5)(F);
   11. National guard;
   12. OEM headquarters company;
   13. Sheriff;
   14. Street rod, as defined in [former] § 55-4-230 [obsolete];
   15. United States house of representatives;
   16. United States judge; and
   17. United States senate.
4. 1. Notwithstanding any provision of this title to the contrary, any person who fulfills the following conditions may continue to renew and be issued personalized plates that consist of two (2) letters, numbers, or a combination of letters and numbers:
      1. The person was the owner of a passenger motor vehicle which was registered with the department prior to July 1, 1984; and
      2. The person was issued a personalized motor vehicle registration plate which consisted of two (2) letters, numbers, or combination thereof prior to July 1, 1984.
   2. All other provisions of this title regarding registration and licensing of passenger motor vehicles shall apply to any registration plates issued in accordance with subdivision (d)(1).
5. Notwithstanding subdivisions (c)(8) and (10), memorial plates, as enumerated in § 55-4-203(c)(4) and defined in § 55-4-250, and military plates, as enumerated in § 55-4-203(c)(5)(F), are eligible for personalization pursuant to this section. In addition to any other fees required by this section or by this part for the issuance of such plates, an applicant for the personalization of memorial or military plates shall pay a fee equal to the cost of actually designing and manufacturing the personalized plates. Nothing in this subsection (e) authorizes the removal or other redesign of any distinctive identification legend or letters required to be included on memorial or military plates.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2002, ch. 876, § 63; 2007, ch. 142, § 3; 2008, ch. 924, § 14; 2009, ch. 530, § 121; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-211; Acts 2019, ch. 461, § 1.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Acts 2002, ch. 876, § 64 provided that the provisions of subsection (f) of this section shall not apply to that act.

Acts 2002, ch. 876, § 65 provided that the commissioner of safety is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to effectuate the provisions of that act. All such rules and regulations shall be promulgated in accordance with the provisions of the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5.

In view of § 55-4-201(h), former § 55-4-230 (Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2009, ch. 589, § 40) was deleted as obsolete and invalid in 2010, since the street rod new specialty earmarked plates in the section failed to meet the minimum requirements for issuance.

55-4-215. Allocation of revenue from personalized plates.

1. Effective July 1, 1998, and for all subsequent fiscal years, all revenues produced from the sale or renewal of personalized plates and all revenues produced from the personalization of cultural, specialty earmarked and new specialty earmarked motor vehicle registration plates as authorized by §§ 55-4-214 and 55-4-241, or renewals of the plates, after deducting the expense the department has incurred in designing, manufacturing and marketing the plates, shall be allocated to the Tennessee arts commission created in title 4, chapter 20.
2. Nothing in this section shall be construed as reallocating the revenues produced from the regular motor vehicle registration fees, or renewals thereof, imposed by part 1 of this chapter. Such revenues shall be allocated in accordance with § 55-6-107.
3. 1. Notwithstanding subsection (a), funds received from the sale of personalized trailer plates shall be earmarked as provided by this subsection (c). A general fund reserve is established to be allocated by the general appropriations act, which shall be known as the trailer license plate fund, referred to as the fund in this subsection (c).
   2. Moneys from the fund shall be expended to finance the development and maintenance of public horseback riding trails.
   3. Any revenues deposited in the fund shall remain in the fund until expended for purposes consistent with this section, and shall not revert to the general fund on any June 30.
   4. Any excess revenues shall not revert on any June 30, but shall remain available for appropriation in subsequent fiscal years.
   5. Any appropriation from the fund shall not revert to the general fund on any June 30, but shall remain available for expenditure in subsequent fiscal years.
   6. No moneys shall be expended from the fund unless the funds are specifically appropriated by the general appropriations act.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2007, ch. 142, § 5; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-214.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

55-4-216. Allocation of revenue from cultural plates.

1. Effective July 1, 1998, and for all subsequent fiscal years, all revenues produced from the sale or renewal of cultural motor vehicle registration plates as defined in § 55-4-201, excluding personalized plates and the arts plates authorized by § 55-4-240, after deducting the expense the department has incurred in designing, manufacturing and marketing the plates, shall be allocated as follows:
   1. Eighty percent (80%) of the funds shall be allocated to the Tennessee arts commission created in title 4, chapter 20; and
   2. Twenty percent (20%) of the funds shall be allocated to the state highway fund.
2. 1. Notwithstanding subsection (a), the revenues produced from the sale or renewal of personalized plates pursuant to § 55-4-210 and the revenues produced from the personalization of cultural, specialty earmarked and new specialty earmarked motor vehicle registration plates pursuant to §§ 55-4-214 and 55-4-241, or renewals thereof, shall be allocated in accordance with § 55-4-215.
   2. Notwithstanding this section, the revenues produced from the sale or renewal of the cultural plates to support the arts authorized by § 55-4-240 shall be allocated in accordance with § 55-4-217.
3. Nothing in this section shall be construed as reallocating the revenues produced from the regular motor vehicle registration fees, or renewals thereof, imposed by part 1 of this chapter. The revenues shall be allocated in accordance with § 55-6-107.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 1999, ch. 494, § 2; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

55-4-217. Allocation of revenue from cultural earmarked plates.

1. Notwithstanding any provision of this part to the contrary, all revenues produced in each fiscal year from the sale or renewal of the cultural earmarked plates to support the arts authorized by § 55-4-240, minus the expense the state has incurred in manufacturing the plates, shall be allocated to the Tennessee arts commission.
2. Nothing in this section shall be construed as reallocating the revenues produced from the regular motor vehicle registration fees, or renewals thereof, imposed by part 1 of this chapter. The revenues shall be allocated in accordance with § 55-6-107.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-218.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

55-4-218. Allocation of revenue from special purpose and memorial plates.

Effective July 1, 1998, and for all subsequent fiscal years, the revenues produced from the sale or renewal of special purpose motor vehicle registration plates and memorial motor vehicle registration plates as defined in § 55-4-201, after deducting the expense the department has incurred in manufacturing the plates, shall be allocated in accordance with § 55-6-107.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-219.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

55-4-219. Governmental service.

1. 1. 1. Upon the sworn statement from the head of any department of state government or the county mayor of any county, or the mayor or other executive head of any town or city, or upon certification of authorized officials of the United States government, or upon the sworn statement from the chief of any private or volunteer fire department, that the motor vehicle for which application is being made for registration is owned or leased by the state, the county, municipality, United States government, or the private or volunteer fire department, and operated exclusively for essential governmental purposes or exclusively for fire protection purposes, the department, through the county clerk or as otherwise provided hereinafter, shall register the vehicles and issue registration plates upon the payment of one dollar and twenty-five cents ($1.25).
      2. In addition to the governmental entities listed in subdivision (a)(1)(A), senior citizens service centers which meet the standards set by the commission on aging and disability for eligibility to receive state funds may also apply for government service plates under this section for vans owned by the centers and used exclusively for the centers' activities.
      3. In addition to the governmental entities listed in subdivisions (a)(1)(A) and (B), human resource agencies created pursuant to § 13-26-102 and development districts as created pursuant to § 13-14-102 may also apply for government service plates under this section for vans owned by such human resource agencies and development districts and used exclusively for agencies' and districts' activities.
      4. In addition to the governmental entities listed in subdivisions (a)(1)(A) and (B), community action agencies may also apply for government service plates under this section for vans owned by such community action agencies and used exclusively for agencies' activities.
   2. The county clerk shall have a right to collect the fee for registration as hereinafter provided.
   3. The commissioner shall promulgate rules and regulations to effectuate this section.
   4. Registration certificates and plates shall be valid for the motor vehicles until the transfer of ownership or the destruction of the motor vehicles at which time the registration shall expire. Upon the expiration of any such registration, the registration certificates and plates shall be returned to the department.
   5. Upon proper application through the county clerk, the registration plates may be transferred to another motor vehicle acquired by the owner to whom the registration certificates and plates were previously issued upon the payment of one dollar ($1.00) plus the county clerk's fee, except that application from the head of any department of state government may be made directly to the department of revenue.
   6. All registration plates issued to state departmental agencies shall be of a distinctive design as approved by the commissioner and shall not display the year of issuance. All registration plates issued to governmental agencies, other than the state, shall be of a distinctive design and shall have conspicuously inscribed, stamped or printed thereon so as to be easily seen and read the words “Govt. Service” or “Govt. Ser.” All registration plates issued to private or volunteer fire departments shall be of a distinctive design.
2. The exemption conferred by this section shall apply only to motor vehicles owned or leased and operated by governmental units or private or volunteer fire department units exclusively for governmental and fire protection purposes and shall not apply to motor vehicles operated by governmental units as bailee.
3. 1. “Essential government purposes” includes the operation of local transit service by independent contractors operating a local transit company.
   2. As used in this subsection (c):
      1. “Local transit company” means a person, firm, partnership or corporation, engaged in furnishing, and at least sixty percent (60%) of the total passenger fare revenue of which shall be derived from, scheduled common carrier public passenger land transportation service along the regular routes within a municipality and the territory adjacent thereto, or within a metropolitan government created under title 7, chapters 1-3, the operation of which is supervised, regulated and controlled as a street railway company, under § 65-16-101 [repealed] and all other legislative and statutory provisions applicable thereto; and
      2. “Local transit service” means scheduled common carrier public passenger land transportation service furnished by a local transit company within the territorial limits of the regulatory jurisdiction of the municipality or metropolitan government that is authorized to supervise, regulate and control the operations of such company, under § 65-16-101 [repealed], and all other legislative and statutory provisions applicable thereto.
4. Upon the further certification of the person authorized by this section to apply for registration that issuance of plates has been requested for vehicles assigned for use in the investigation of actual or suspected violations of the law, the department may issue plates or authorize issuance thereof from the regular series used for non-tax-exempt vehicles. The registrar of motor vehicles, with the approval of the attorney general and reporter, may enter into agreements with the proper officials of other states for the exchange of plates for the purposes provided in this section.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2000, ch. 630, §§ 1, 2; 2003. ch. 90 § 2; 2007, ch. 484, § 49; 2010, ch. 1151, §§ 20, 54; 2018, ch. 985, §§ 1-3; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-223.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Section 65-16-101, referred to in this section, was repealed by Acts 2003, ch. 19, § 2, effective April 11, 2003.

Acts 2003, ch. 90, § 2, directed the code commission to change all references from “county executive” to “county mayor” and to include all such changes in supplements and replacement volumes for Tennessee Code Annotated.

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2010, ch. 1151.

The term “commission on aging and disability” was substituted for “commission on aging” pursuant to Acts 2001, ch. 397.

55-4-220. General assembly members.

1. A member of the general assembly, complying with the title and registration law and upon payment of the regular license fee appropriate to the vehicle's design or use as prescribed in this chapter, plus payment of the additional fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a registration plate as provided for in this part.
2. The design of the special purpose license plates shall be rectangular in shape, white in color with all letters and numbers in blue and the great seal of Tennessee in gold. There shall be centered on the upper edge, the word “Tennessee” or “Tenn” enclosed in a drawing of the state, with the current year of registration designated in the upper left and right corners of the rectangle; centered on the lower edge shall be the word or words “Senate” or “House” as may be appropriate; on the left half of the plate shall be the great seal of the state of Tennessee; and on the right half of the plate the member may at option use the member's initials or other letters if the total number of characters making up the configuration does not exceed four (4) rather than the number assigned to the member. The design of the plate shall not be used by any other branch or agency of the state.
3. The suffixes provided for in § 55-4-203(b)(2), shall be assigned by the speaker of each house. The same numbers assigned in the first year of the biennial for a general assembly shall be assigned for the second year.
4. A member, optionally, may use initials or other letters if the total number of characters does not exceed four (4). In the event there is a conflict with respect to like letters, the first applicant to the department shall be entitled to preference.
5. Members of the general assembly may be entitled to special purpose plates for additional automobiles owned by the members or their immediate families. These additional plates may bear the same legend as the first assigned tags but shall be distinguished therefrom by the addition of letters A, B, or C; provided, that the letters do not exceed the requirements of this part.
6. The special plates shall be delivered to the several county clerks for issuance during each registration renewal period as provided in § 55-4-207, except that the registrar of motor vehicles may make direct issue of the plates to the members upon proper application being made, if the plates can be prepared for direct issuance prior to March 1.
7. This section shall not be construed to mean that any member shall be prevented from exchanging a regular type plate for one of special design in the course of a given registration year.
8. The commissioner is authorized to facilitate the continued utilization of existing, issued special purpose plates by a member of the general assembly upon the member's reelection through the issuance of decals or by any other means as to effectuate this subsection (h). Any method of continued utilization shall only be available for plates previously issued to members of the general assembly or their immediate families. Upon ineligibility under this section, any special purpose plates issued shall be surrendered to the department and the department shall issue a regular registration plate valid for the same period as the surrendered special purpose plate. The continued use of existing, issued special purpose plates upon reelection shall be accomplished in a manner that maximizes efficiency and costs and is not unduly burdensome to either the department or county clerks.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2004, ch. 481, §§ 4-6; 2009, ch. 589, § 43; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-225.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2009, ch. 589.

55-4-221. Judiciary members.

1. Registration plates for members of the judiciary shall be issued in accordance with this part.
2. Registration plates for judges of the state courts of record shall bear individual distinctive numbers, as determined by the commissioner in consultation with the administrative director of the courts.
3. 1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is a duly elected juvenile court judge, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, payment of the regular license fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and payment of the additional fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a license plate, as prescribed by § 55-4-101, for motor vehicles authorized by § 55-4-210(c), upon which, in lieu of the numbers as prescribed by § 55-4-103, shall be inscribed an individual distinctive number.
   2. Former juvenile court judges may also obtain a license plate as provided for in subdivision (c)(1).
4. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is a duly elected general sessions court judge or former general sessions court judge, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, payment of the regular license fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and payment of the additional fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a license plate, as prescribed by § 55-4-101, for motor vehicles authorized by § 55-4-210(c), upon which, in lieu of the numbers as prescribed by § 55-4-103, shall be inscribed with an individual distinctive number.
5. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is a retired or former member of the Tennessee judicial conference, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, payment of the regular license fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and payment of the additional fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a license plate, as prescribed by § 55-4-101 for motor vehicles authorized by § 55-4-210(c), upon which, in lieu of the numbers as prescribed by § 55-4-103, shall be inscribed an individual distinctive number.
6. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is a municipal court judge or former municipal court judge, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, payment of the regular license fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, payment of the additional fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a license plate, as prescribed by § 55-4-101, for motor vehicles authorized by § 55-4-210(c), upon which, instead of the numbers as prescribed by § 55-4-103, shall be inscribed an individual distinctive number.
7. The amendments to this section by chapter 336 of the Public Acts of 1987, which applied provisions of this section to certain former judges, shall not apply to any judge who has been convicted of a felony or who has been removed from office.
8. Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, the commissioner is authorized, and shall issue, license plates to owners or lessees of motorcycles otherwise qualified pursuant to this section upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motorcycles and paying the regular fee applicable to motorcycles and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204.
9. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and whose duty is to serve a judiciary function as a magistrate, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, payment of the regular license fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and payment of the additional fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a license plate, as prescribed by § 55-4-101, for motor vehicles authorized by § 55-4-210(c), upon which, instead of the numbers as prescribed by § 55-4-103, shall be inscribed an individual distinctive number.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2003, ch. 380, § 1; 2009, ch. 589, § 4; 2010, ch. 1151, § 43; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-226.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Acts 2003, ch. 380, § 2 provided that the commissioner of safety is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to effectuate the provisions of the act.

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2009, ch. 589.

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2010, ch. 1151.

55-4-222. Sheriffs.

An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is a duly elected sheriff, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, payment of the regular license fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and payment of the additional fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a registration plate which shall bear the number of the sheriff's county of jurisdiction and the word “SHERIFF” in capital letters.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-227.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

55-4-223. Emergency personnel.

1. Registration plates issued under the emergency category pursuant to § 55-4-203(c)(1)(B)-(K) may be issued to persons included in the groups set out in this section, and in accordance with this part.
2. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who holds a permanent official identification card of an auxiliary police unit working with the civil defense authorities, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, payment of the regular license fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111 and payment of the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a registration plate as provided for in this part.
3. A resident of the state who holds a permanent official registration card of the civil air patrol and/or the civil defense organization, and/or a spouse, whose vehicle is titled or leased in the name of the resident and/or spouse, upon application accompanied by a letter from the local civil defense director indicating the current membership of the applicant and/or the spouse of the applicant, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, payment of the regular license fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and payment of any fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a registration plate as provided for in this part.
4. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle, who is a resident of this state and who is a member of the Tennessee Association of Rescue Squads or who is a resident of this state and a member of an emergency services squad in any county having a population of six hundred thousand (600,000) or more, according to the 1970 federal census or any subsequent federal census, or who is a resident of this state and is an emergency medical technician, paramedic, emergency medical technician-paramedic, or other emergency medical responder, upon complying with the title and registration law, payment of the regular license fee appropriate to the vehicle's design or use, as prescribed under § 55-4-111 or § 55-4-113, and payment of the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a registration plate as provided for in this part; except, that any active volunteer member of a local rescue squad who has at least one (1) year of service shall be exempt, at the time of renewal, from the regular license fee for only one (1) motor vehicle, upon the certification or sworn statement from the captain of the local rescue squad to which the person is attached confirming the person is an active volunteer member. In addition to the exemption provided by this subsection (d), the legislative body of a county is authorized to waive the motor vehicle tax for motor vehicles receiving an exemption under this subsection (d) from the registration fee if the waiver is approved in the same manner as the adoption of the motor vehicle tax under § 5-8-102. The county clerk shall issue no plates to a local rescue squad member until receiving a list of all eligible members from the captain of the local rescue squad. Emergency medical technicians, paramedics, or emergency medical technician-paramedics not affiliated with a local rescue squad are required to present a current, valid paramedic, emergency medical technician, or emergency medical technician-paramedic's license prior to issuance of a plate under this section. Other emergency medical responders not affiliated with a local rescue squad are required to present a current, valid emergency medical responder's certification prior to issuance of a plate under this section.
5. 1. The commissioner shall cause to be manufactured metal plates of distinctive design for various groups included in the emergency category. Upon application by the president, or other chief executive officer, of recognized organizations of persons in the various groups in the emergency category and the submission of a certified listing of the members of that organization and their motor vehicle registration numbers, the commissioner shall sell, at a cost of two dollars and fifty cents ($2.50) per plate, to the chief executive officer the appropriate number of plates for distribution to each listed person, with the plates to be displayed on the front of each vehicle registered by that person in the emergency category.
   2. The plates shall be for identification purposes only and shall not be valid for motor vehicle operation. The plates shall be issued only for the term of the emergency category registration plate, and shall be surrendered by the holder at such time as the holder's emergency registration expires or the holder ceases to be a member of the group included in the emergency category.
   3. It is a Class A misdemeanor to display the plate on any vehicle that is not properly registered in the emergency category.
6. Notwithstanding  this section to the contrary, an owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of the state and who is a full-time police officer as defined by § 38-8-101 and is certified as such, and authorized, by the chief law enforcement officer of the organization to which the person is attached or by which the person is employed, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle, shall be issued an emergency registration plate.
7. Notwithstanding  this section to the contrary, an owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of the state and who is a trauma physician licensed by the board of medical examiners, who submits a statement or certification from the board of medical examiners and from a trauma center in a hospital or other medical facility confirming that the applicant practices medicine as a trauma physician, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and a fee equal to the cost of producing the plate; provided, however, that the issuance of the plates shall be revenue neutral, shall be issued an emergency registration plate and shall be eligible to renew such emergency registration plate.
8. Notwithstanding  this section to the contrary, an owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of the state and who is a nurse licensed by the Tennessee board of nursing, who submits a statement or certification from a trauma center or emergency room in a hospital or other medical facility confirming that the applicant is a trauma nurse, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and a fee equal to the cost of producing the plate; provided, that the issuance of the plates is revenue neutral, shall be issued an emergency registration plate and shall be eligible to renew the registration plate.
9. Notwithstanding  this section to the contrary, an owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is on-call surgical personnel licensed or certified under title 63 or as a surgical technologist under title 68, chapter 57, serving in a hospital, emergency room or surgical department, who submits a statement or certification from the hospital, emergency room or surgical department confirming that the applicant is on-call surgical personnel, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and a fee equal to the cost of producing such plate, shall be issued an emergency registration plate and shall be eligible to renew such registration plate; provided, that the issuance of the plates shall be revenue neutral.
10. Subject to the requirements of § 55-4-202, the commissioner is authorized and shall issue a license plate to an owner or lessee of a motorcycle who is otherwise eligible for an emergency plate in the appropriate category; provided, however, that the owner or lessee shall comply with the state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motorcycles and shall pay the regular fee applicable to motorcycles and the applicable fee specified in § 55-4-204 prior to the issuance of the plate.
11. Notwithstanding this section to the contrary, an owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of the state and who is a constable duly elected, trained, and qualified in accordance with title 8, chapter 10, and is certified as such, and authorized, by the county legislative body of the county in which the person serves, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle, shall be issued an emergency registration plate.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2002, ch. 633, §§ 3, 6; 2004, ch. 937, § 3; 2007, ch. 63, §§ 3, 4; 2008, ch. 1007, § 4; 2008, ch. 1165, §§ 45, 46; 2009, ch. 589, § 35; 2017, ch. 97, §§ 2, 3; 2018, ch. 923, § 2; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-222; Acts 2020, ch. 597, §§ 2, 3.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2008, ch. 1165.

For tables of U.S. decennial populations of Tennessee counties, see Volume 13 and its supplement.

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2009, ch. 589.

Acts 2018, ch. 923, § 3, which amended this section, shall apply to registration plates renewed on or after May 15, 2018.

Amendments. The 2020 amendment, in (d), substituted “emergency medical technician, paramedic, emergency medical technician-paramedic, or other emergency medical responder” for “emergency medical technician or paramedic” in the first sentence, in the fourth sentence, inserted “, or emergency medical technician-paramedics” preceding “not affiliated”, substituted “are” for “shall be”, inserted “, emergency medical technician,” following “valid paramedic” and substituted “technician-paramedic's” for “technician's”, and added the last sentence.

Effective Dates. Acts 2020, ch. 597, § 4. July 1, 2020.

Cross-References. Penalty for Class A misdemeanor, § 40-35-111.

Attorney General Opinions. T.C.A. § 55-4-222 and T.C.A. § 55-4-202(c)(1) [T.C.A. § 55-4-223 and T.C.A. § 55-4-203(c)(1)] now do not authorize the issuance of emergency license plates to trauma physicians except to the extent that such physicians may also be authorized to receive such plates by virtue of membership in a group to whose members such plates may be issued, OAG 03-163, 2003 Tenn. AG LEXIS 178 (12/23/03).

55-4-224. Firefighters.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is a member of a volunteer fire department or full-time firefighting unit, or another bona fide firefighter, including a paid, paid-on-call, or volunteer firefighter, or a bona fide retired firefighter, shall be issued a special firefighter registration plate, as provided for in this part, upon proof of current membership in a firefighting unit, or upon proof of former membership in a firefighting unit from which the owner or lessee is a retired member in good standing, and upon compliance with state motor vehicle registration and licensing laws and payment of the applicable registration fee under § 55-4-111; except, that any active volunteer firefighter who has at least one (1) year of service shall be exempt, at the time of renewal, from the applicable registration fee for only one (1) motor vehicle, upon the certification or sworn statement from the chief of the fire department to which the person is attached confirming the person is an active volunteer firefighter. In addition to the exemption provided by this subsection (a), the legislative body of a county is authorized to waive the motor vehicle tax for motor vehicles receiving an exemption under this subsection (a) from the registration fee if the waiver is approved in the same manner as the adoption of the motor vehicle tax under § 5-8-102.
2. Subject to the requirements of § 55-4-202, the commissioner is authorized and shall issue a license plate to an owner or lessee of a motorcycle who is otherwise eligible for a special firefighter registration plate; provided, however, that the owner or lessee shall comply with the state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motorcycles and shall pay the regular fee applicable to motorcycles and the applicable fee specified in § 55-4-204 prior to the issuance of the plate.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2004, ch. 481, § 7; 2007, ch. 604, § 3; 2009, ch. 589, § 42; 2018, ch. 923, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-241.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2009, ch. 589.

Acts 2018, ch. 923, § 3, which amended this section, shall apply to registration plates renewed on or after May 15, 2018.

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-201, 55-4-202.

55-4-225. Amateur radio station licensees.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who holds an unrevoked and unexpired official amateur radio station license issued by the federal communications commission may apply to the department, through the county clerk, for issuance of a special purpose license plate under this part. The application shall be accompanied by proof of ownership of a amateur radio station license.
2. 1. The initial issuance of a special purpose license plate to the applicant shall be made upon payment of the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and upon payment of the additional fee prescribed by § 55-4-204, if applicable. Thereafter, annual renewal for a qualified resident shall be as provided by this chapter.
   2. The special purpose license plates issued pursuant to this section for motor vehicles authorized by § 55-4-210(c) and motorcycles shall bear the official amateur radio call letters assigned by the federal communications commission to the applicant.
3. All applications under this section shall be accompanied by the required fees.
4. In the event of the reissuance of a special purpose license plate under this section whether due to design changes, loss, changes in call letters, revocation or expiration of the radio station license or any other reason shall require payment of fees in the same manner as initial issuance of the license plate.
5. 1. To be eligible for an amateur radio license plate issued pursuant to § 55-4-203(c)(1)(A) without paying the fee prescribed by § 55-4-204(a)(4)(A)(ii) in addition to the regular fee for the plate, the registrant shall furnish proof to the commissioner, through the county clerk, that the registrant is a member of a squad or group that actively participates in needed services during any and all emergencies, as determined by the civil defense, rescue squads or other organizations that are engaged in volunteer emergency services.
   2. Notwithstanding this part to the contrary, to be eligible for an amateur radio license plate without paying the fee prescribed by § 55-4-204(a)(4)(A)(ii) in addition to the regular fee for the plate, the registrant shall furnish proof to the commissioner, through the county clerk, that the registrant:
      1. Has credentials approved by the county emergency management director; or
      2. Holds a class license as an amateur radio operator issued by the federal communications commission.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2016, ch. 702, § 1; 2018, ch. 990, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-229.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Acts 2016, ch. 702, § 2 provided that the act, which amended this section, took effect April 6, 2016 and shall apply to registration plates issued or renewed on or after such date.

55-4-226. Dealers.

1. Registration plates issued under the dealer category may be issued to manufacturers, dealers and transporters of motor vehicles as provided for in this part.
2. 1. Any dealer owning any vehicle that may be legally operated upon the streets or highways of this state with a regular vehicle registration may, either in person or through a duly authorized agent or employee, operate or move the vehicle upon any highway of the state without registering each such vehicle, upon condition that the vehicle display a special purpose plate issued to that owner as prescribed in this part. The dealer may further authorize the operation of the vehicle bearing such plates by customers for temporary purposes not to exceed seventy-two (72) hours. The dealer may further authorize the operation of the vehicle bearing such plates by any customer who is using the vehicle, without charge, while the customer's vehicle is being serviced or repaired by the dealer or by any person who is participating in a driver's education program and is operating a vehicle that was provided by the dealer to a school for use in the driver's education program.
   2. The special purpose dealer plate shall have the legend “TENN” at the top of the plate and shall have “auto dealer” at the bottom of the plate. The legend shall contain the letter “D” and five (5) numbers. The special purpose dealer plate for a motor vehicle dealer that sells used motor vehicles shall have a red background and white letter and numbers. The special purpose dealer plate for a franchise motor vehicle dealer that sells new motor vehicles shall have a white background and black letter and numbers.
   3. Any dealer who has a valid number assigned by the motor vehicle commission may make application to the department for one (1) or more special purpose plates. The fee for the first plate is forty-seven dollars and thirty cents ($47.30), and the fee for any plates in addition to the first plate is twenty-three dollars and sixty-five cents ($23.65) for each additional plate. No dealer shall be permitted to purchase more than two hundred twenty-five (225) auto dealer plates during a registration year.
   4. A transporter may operate or move any vehicle that may be legally operated under a regular vehicle registration upon any highway within this state solely for the purpose of delivery, upon likewise displaying thereon like plates issued to the transporter as provided in this part.
   5. Any vehicle preparation service or motor vehicle auction company licensed by the state may obtain special purpose plates to operate or move dealer-owned vehicles upon any highway within the state solely for the purpose of transporting the vehicles between a dealer's business location and the location where the cleaning, repairing, or preparation is performed or where the vehicle is to be auctioned, and for the purposes of testing the vehicle within a twenty (20) mile radius of the location where the cleaning, repairing or preparation is performed.
   6. This subsection (b) shall not apply to work or service vehicles owned by a manufacturer, transporter or dealer.
3. 1. Any manufacturer or transporter may make application to any county clerk within the state, and any vehicle preparation service may make application to the county clerk of the county where the established place of business of the service is located, upon appropriate forms for a certificate and for one (1) or more special purpose plates or single special purpose plates as appropriate to vehicles subject to registration hereunder, which plates shall be of the same color as auto dealer plates issued in the state for the particular year in question and on which shall appear the letters “DL” and identifying numbers. An applicant for these registration plates who is a transporter shall submit proof of the applicant's status as a bona fide transporter that may reasonably be required by the county clerk to whom the application is made. If the applicant is a manufacturer, the county clerk shall not issue the registration plates until the applicant has registered with the county clerk to whom the application is made the number of the current license issued to such manufacturer by the motor vehicle commission. For registering the license number of such manufacturers and dealers, the county clerk shall be entitled to a fee of five dollars ($5.00).
   2. The county clerk, upon granting an application, shall, upon the payment of the appropriate fee, issue to the applicant a certificate containing the applicant's name and address.
   3. All special purpose plates issued to any vehicle preparation service, manufacturer, or transporter shall bear identifying numbers, and no special purpose plates issued to other vehicle preparation services, manufacturers, or transporters shall bear the same number.
   4. The commissioner is authorized and empowered to design, issue and regulate the use of temporary plates for use in cases where dealer plates cannot be used. Upon the depletion of the department's current inventory of temporary plates, the department shall redesign the temporary plates in such a manner as determined by the commissioner as will permit the conspicuous display of individual distinctive alpha-numerical characters. Temporary plates may be issued for a period of thirty (30) days. The fee for the thirty-day plate is five dollars and fifty cents ($5.50). No person may operate a motor vehicle for more than sixty (60) days with the temporary plate. Nothing in this section shall be construed as a grant of authority for the issuance or use of the temporary plates on trucks or truck tractors being used or tested under load conditions over the streets and highways of this state.
4. 1. Registration plates issued under this subsection (d) may only be issued to dealers as provided for in this subsection (d).
   2. Any dealer owning a vehicle suitable for special event services may, either in person or through a duly authorized agent, employee, or lessee, operate or move the vehicle upon any highway of the state without registering such vehicle, upon condition that the vehicle display a special event plate issued to that owner as prescribed in this part.
   3. A vehicle is suitable for special event services if it:
      1. Is rented to legal entities of this state, or any political subdivision thereof, pursuant to a rental agreement;
      2. Only travels in this state during the rental period;
      3. Is capable of holding fifteen (15) or more passengers; and
      4. Has fewer than two thousand five hundred (2,500) miles on the odometer.
   4. Notwithstanding any statute to the contrary, a vehicle meeting all of the criteria of a special event services vehicle pursuant to subdivision (d)(3) shall not be eligible to use a special purpose dealer plate.
   5. The special event plate shall have the legend “TENN” at the top of the plate and shall have “Special Event” at the bottom of the plate. The legend shall contain the letters “SE” and five (5) numbers. The special event plates shall have a light blue background with black letters and numbers.
   6. Any dealer who has a valid number assigned by the motor vehicle commission may make application to the department for one (1) or more special event plates and shall provide sufficient information as reasonably requested by the commissioner to show how many vehicles are suitable for special event services. The fee for such plate shall be more than one hundred fifty-two dollars and sixty-three cents ($152.63). No dealer shall be permitted to purchase more than one hundred (100) special event plates during a registration year.
5. 1. Except as provided in subdivision (e)(2), the special purpose plates issued under this section shall expire on May 31 of each year, and a new plate or plates for the ensuing year may be obtained by the person to whom the expired plate or plates were issued upon application to the registrar of motor vehicles, or the registrar's deputy as provided by law. Issuance of the plates shall begin May 1 of each year, upon payment of the fee provided by law, and proof by the applicant that the applicant is still engaged in business as a manufacturer, transporter, dealer or vehicle preparation service.
   2. In the year in which the issuance of such plates shall be valid for a period of fourteen (14) months pursuant to this section, the fee provided by law shall be computed as seven-sixths (7/6) times the regular annual fee. The intent of this subdivision (e)(2) is to provide that the annual fee be increased by a pro-rata portion to cover the additional two (2) months fee during the transition year of implementation of this new schedule. Issuance of the plates pursuant to this subdivision (e)(2) shall begin on March 1 of the year so affected, upon payment of the appropriate fee, and proof by the applicant that such applicant is still engaged in business as a manufacturer, transporter, dealer or vehicle preparation service.
6. 1. Registration plates issued under this subsection (f) may only be issued to manufacturers and dealers of boats as provided for in this subsection (f).
   2. A person may operate a boat trailer for hire upon any highway within this state without registering the boat trailer, if the boat trailer is operated solely for the purpose of delivery of a boat to a customer of a manufacturer or dealer of boats and the boat trailer displays a special purpose boat dealer plate issued to the manufacturer or dealer as prescribed in this subsection (f).
   3. Any dealer or manufacturer of boats who hires individuals who own or operate boat trailers to deliver boats to the dealer's or manufacturer's customers may make, either in person or through a duly authorized agent, employee, or lessee, application to any county clerk within the state, upon appropriate forms for a certificate and for one (1) or more special purpose boat dealer plates.
   4. The boat dealer plates must be of a different color than the auto dealer and special event plates issued in the state for the particular year in question and must have the legend “TENN” at the top of the plate and must have “boat dealer” at the bottom of the plate. The legend must contain the letters “BD” and five (5) numbers.
   5. The fee for the first plate is forty-seven dollars and thirty cents ($47.30), and the fee for any plates in addition to the first plate is twenty-three dollars and sixty-five cents ($23.65) for each additional plate. A dealer or manufacturer of boats shall not purchase more than two hundred twenty-five (225) boat dealer plates during a twelve-month period.
   6. The county clerk, upon granting an application, shall issue to the applicant, upon the payment of the appropriate fee, a certificate containing the applicant's name and address.
   7. The special purpose boat dealer plates issued under this subsection (f) expire on May 31 of each year, and a new plate or plates for the ensuing year may be obtained by the person to whom the expired plate or plates were issued upon application to the registrar of motor vehicles, or the registrar's deputy as provided by law. Issuance of the plates begins May 1 of each year, upon payment of the fee provided by law, and proof by the applicant that the applicant is still engaged in business as a manufacturer or dealer of boats.
7. The commissioner is authorized and empowered to promulgate rules and regulations for the administration of this section.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 1999, ch. 98, §§ 12, 13; 2001, ch. 98, § 1; 2001, ch. 233, § 7; 2002, ch. 722, § 1; 2002, ch. 856, §§ 8m, 8n; 2007, ch. 484, § 116; 2009, ch. 530, § 124; 2010, ch. 1151, § 52; 2013, ch. 117, §§ 2, 3; 2013, ch. 183, § 5; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-221; Acts 2020, ch. 571, § 2.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Acts 1999, ch. 98, § 15, provided that it was the intent of that act that any registration issued prior to January 1, 2000, shall remain valid until the expiration.

Acts 2001, ch. 98, § 2 provided that the act shall apply to any plate issued which would expire after March 31, 2002.

Acts 2001, ch. 233, § 10 provided:

“The additional revenue generated from the additional temporary operation fees and permits authorized in § 55-4-115(a)(1) and the additional temporary plate fees and permits authorized in § 55-4-221(c)(4) shall be deposited in the alcohol and drug addiction treatment fund provided in § 40-33-211 and shall not be included in the general fund.”

Acts 2002, ch. 856, § 8(o) provided that notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, all revenues attributable to statutory changes effectuated by the provisions of § 8 of that act shall be deposited exclusively in the state's general fund and shall be allocated for general state purposes in accordance with the provisions of the General Appropriations Act.

Acts 2002, ch. 856, § 13 provided that no expenditure of public funds pursuant to that act shall be made in violation of the provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as codified in 42 U.S.C. § 2000d.

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2010, ch. 1151.

Amendments. The 2020 amendment added (f), and redesignated former (f) as present (g).

Effective Dates. Acts 2020, ch. 571, § 3. July 1, 2020.

Attorney General Opinions. Restrictions on how dealers and customers may use vehicles for which registration plates have been issued under T.C.A. § 55-4-221(b) [now T.C.A. § 55-4-226(b)]; fees for use of such vehicles.  OAG 12-108, 2012 Tenn. AG LEXIS 112 (12/14/12).

55-4-227. OEM headquarters company.

1. Registration plates issued under the OEM headquarters company category pursuant to § 55-4-203(a) may be issued to any OEM headquarters company for purposes of registering any OEM headquarters company vehicle. Eligible employees and eligible family members may operate an OEM headquarters company vehicle on any highway within this state upon displaying thereon plates issued to the OEM headquarters company as provided in this part. A registration plate issued under the OEM headquarters company category may only be transferred to another qualified OEM headquarters company vehicle.
2. The special purpose OEM headquarters company plates provided for in this section shall be designed by the commissioner in consultation with the OEM headquarters company making application for the plate. All special purpose plates issued to any OEM headquarters company shall bear identifying numbers and shall display the word “Tennessee” or an abbreviation thereof.
3. This registration shall be valid so long as title to the OEM headquarters company vehicle is vested in the OEM headquarters company and shall not be subject to the provisions of this chapter requiring annual registration.
4. Any OEM headquarters company may make application to the department for the special purpose plates authorized by this section. The plates shall be free of charge, as provided in § 55-4-204.
5. Any motor vehicle registered for use as an OEM headquarters company vehicle under this section shall, at the termination of such use, be sold at an auction limited to any dealer who sells new or unused motor vehicles of the same line-make as the motor vehicle to be sold.

Acts 2009, ch. 530, § 122; 2013, ch. 183, § 6; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-232.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

55-4-228. Special purpose nonprofit organization plate.

1. Any nonprofit organization owning any vehicle that may be legally operated upon the streets or highways of this state with a regular vehicle registration may, through an authorized agent or employee, operate or move the vehicle upon any highway of the state without registering the vehicle, upon condition that the vehicle display a special purpose plate issued to that owner as prescribed in this section.
2. The special purpose nonprofit organization plate shall have the legend “TENN” at the top of the plate and shall have “nonprofit organization” at the bottom of the plate. The legend shall contain the letters “CVPT” and three (3) numbers. The special purpose nonprofit organization plate shall have a purple background and white letters and numbers.
3. A nonprofit organization may make application to the department for one (1) or more special purpose nonprofit organization plates and shall provide sufficient information as reasonably requested by the commissioner to show that the applicant is a nonprofit organization. The fee for each special purpose plate is forty-seven dollars and thirty cents ($47.30), and the fee for any plates in addition to the first plate is twenty-three dollars and sixty-five cents ($23.65) for each additional plate. No nonprofit organization shall be permitted to purchase more than three (3) nonprofit organization plates each year.
4. A special purpose nonprofit organization plate may be used in the place of a regular vehicle registration to operate or move the vehicle upon any highway of the state without registering such vehicle, solely for the following purposes:
   1. To transport the vehicle between a prior or subsequent owner and the nonprofit organization;
   2. To transport the vehicle between the nonprofit organization and a location where cleaning, repairing, or preparation is performed; or
   3. To test the vehicle within a twenty-mile radius of the location where the cleaning, repairing, or preparation is performed.
5. A special purpose nonprofit organization plate may be used solely for vehicles that were donated to the nonprofit organization with the intent that the vehicle be transferred to a subsequent owner. This section does not apply to vehicles used in a nonprofit organization's daily operations.
6. The special purpose plates issued under this section shall expire on May 31 of each year, and a new plate or plates for the ensuing year may be obtained by the person to whom the expired plate or plates were issued upon application to the department or any county clerk within the state. Issuance of the plates shall begin May 1 of each year, upon payment of the fee provided by law, and proof by the applicant that the applicant continues to be a nonprofit organization.
7. For purposes of this section, “nonprofit organization” means an organization that has received a determination of exemption from the internal revenue service under the Internal Revenue Code § 501(c)(3) (26 U.S.C. § 501(c)(3)).

Acts 2016, ch. 902, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-343.

55-4-229. Legislator Emeritus.

1. A member of the general assembly, or a former member of the general assembly, who is deemed by this section to have emeritus status after having served in the general assembly eight (8) or more years, upon complying with the title and registration law and upon payment of the regular license fee appropriate to the vehicle's design or use as prescribed in this chapter, plus payment of the additional fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a registration plate as provided for in this part.
2. The design on the Legislator Emeritus special purpose license plates shall be distinguishable from the special purpose license plates authorized by § 55-4-220 for members or former members of the general assembly. There shall be an image of the state capitol on the left half of the plate and the plate shall bear the legend “Legislator Emeritus”.
3. The special purpose license plates shall be delivered to the several county clerks for issuance during each registration renewal period as provided in § 55-4-207, except that the registrar of motor vehicles may make direct issue of the plates to the members or former members upon proper application being made, if the plates can be prepared for direct issuance prior to March 1.
4. This section shall not be construed to mean that any member or former member shall be prevented from exchanging a regular type plate for one of special design in the course of a given registration year.

Acts 2017, ch. 384, § 36; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-346.

55-4-230. Tennessee Police Benevolent Association.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is certified as a member of the Tennessee Police Benevolent Association, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Tennessee Police Benevolent Association cultural license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. 1. The application for these license plates shall be accompanied by a statement from the Tennessee Police Benevolent Association, certifying the applicant to be a member of this organization.
   2. This application shall only be permitted to full-time paid or retired law enforcement officers who are members of the Tennessee Police Benevolent Association.
3. The cultural plates provided for in this section shall bear the inscription “POLICE BENEVOLENT ASSOCIATION” or “PBA” and an appropriate standardized insignia of the organization.
4. 1. Within thirty (30) days of terminating membership in the Tennessee Police Benevolent Association, an applicant to whom a cultural license plate has been issued pursuant to this section shall surrender the plate to the county clerk of the county of the applicant's residence.
   2. The Tennessee Police Benevolent Association shall provide biannually to the department the names and addresses of any persons who have terminated their membership in the Tennessee Police Benevolent Association, together with any other identifying information as the commissioner may require.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2001, ch. 233, § 9; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-258.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-231. Retired Female Firefighter.

1. A distinctive license plate is authorized for any female who is a retired firefighter, if the female is currently a resident of this state, is otherwise qualified to register and license a motor vehicle pursuant to this title, and submits proof of former membership in a firefighting unit from which the female is a bona fide retired member in good standing.
2. The registration plates shall bear the legend “Retired Female Fire- fighter”.
3. The registration plate shall be issued upon payment of the regular registration fee pursuant to this chapter and an additional fee equal to the cost of actually designing and manufacturing the plates, and submission of information in accordance with subsection (d).
4. For issuance of a license plate pursuant to this section, all applications shall contain information that the commissioner requires proving the eligibility of the applicant as a female who retired in good standing as a firefighter pursuant to subsection (a).

Acts 2017, ch. 384, § 26; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-325.

Compiler's Notes. In view of § 55-4-201(h), former § 55-4-325 (Acts 2015, ch. 383, § 30) was deleted as obsolete and invalid in 2016, since the Donate Life new specialty earmarked plates in this section failed to meet the minimum requirements for issuance.

55-4-232. [Obsolete.]

Compiler's Notes. In view of § 55-4-202(g), former § 55-4-232 (Acts 2019, ch. 253, § 29; T.C.A. § 55-4-337) was deleted as obsolete and invalid in 2020, since the Antique Auto new specialty earmarked plates in this section failed to meet the minimum requirements for issuance.

55-4-233. Delta Kappa Gamma Society International.

1. An owner or lessee of an antique motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Delta Kappa Gamma Society International cultural license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. The Delta Kappa Gamma Society International cultural license plates provided for in this section shall contain the official logo or other design representative of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International. Such plates shall be designed in consultation with a representative of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International.

Acts 2020, ch. 660, § 17.

Effective Dates. Acts 2020, ch. 660, § 51. July 1, 2020.

55-4-234 — 55-4-239. [Reserved.]

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a cultural earmarked plate to support the arts for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. The Tennessee arts commission is authorized to design multiple plates for issuance pursuant to this section; provided, that the minimum requirements of § 55-4-202(b)(3) shall apply to the issuance of each individual classification of the plates.
3. The Tennessee arts commission shall determine the colors and pictorial representations to be included on the plates.
4. Notwithstanding this part to the contrary, all revenues produced from the sale or renewal of cultural earmarked plates to support the arts, minus the expense the state has incurred in manufacturing the plates, shall be allocated to the Tennessee arts commission.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-264.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-241. Collegiate plates.

1. Collegiate motor vehicle registration plates shall be the same size as regular passenger motor vehicle or motorcycle license plates and may be of the same color and design as regular license plates or may be of the colors and contain the logo or other distinctive design of the appropriate college or university. The commissioner, after consultation with the appropriate college or university, shall determine the colors and design for each classification of collegiate plates.
2. Applicants may elect to personalize collegiate plates pursuant to § 55-4-214.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2007, ch. 484, § 47; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-212.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

55-4-242. Penn State University alumnus.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Penn State University collegiate license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. The collegiate plates provided for in this section shall be of the colors and contain the logo of Penn State University.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-247.

Compiler's Notes. The division of motor vehicles was transferred from the department of revenue to the department of safety by Executive Order No. 37 (June 29, 1990).

Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-243. University of Florida alumnus.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a University of Florida collegiate license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. The collegiate plates provided for in this section shall be of the colors and contain the logo of the University of Florida.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-250.

Compiler's Notes. The division of motor vehicles was transferred from the department of revenue to the department of safety by Executive Order No. 37 (June 29, 1990).

Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-244. University of Arkansas alumnus.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a University of Arkansas collegiate license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. The collegiate plates provided for in this section shall be of the colors and contain the logo of the University of Arkansas.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-251.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-245. University of Mississippi alumnus.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a University of Mississippi collegiate license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. The collegiate plates provided for in this section shall be of the colors and contain the logo of the University of Mississippi.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-256.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-246. [Obsolete.]

Compiler's Notes. In view of § 55-4-202(h) [now 55-4-202(g)], former § 55-4-246 (Acts 2018, ch. 1023, § 22) was deleted as obsolete and invalid in 2019 since the Cumberland University new specialty earmarked plates in this section failed to meet the minimum requirements for issuance.

55-4-247 — 55-4-249. [Reserved.]

Memorial registration plates shall be issued in accordance with this part and § 55-4-261 pertaining to former prisoners of war, § 55-4-258 pertaining to recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor, § 55-4-259 pertaining to recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross, Air Force Cross, Navy Cross, Silver Star, Bronze Star (Valor), Air Medal (Valor), and Distinguished Flying Cross, and § 55-4-256 pertaining to disabled veterans.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2011, ch. 491, § 25; 2013, ch. 318, § 4; 2014, ch. 966, § 18; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-240.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Acts 2013, ch. 318,  § 13, as amended by Acts 2014, ch. 966, § 28, provided that notwithstanding any law to the contrary, any person issued an Air Medal memorial license plate prior to June 21, 2013, shall be entitled to retain the plate for vehicular use upon compliance with all motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles. Any Air Medal military cultural plates initially issued to any recipient of the Air Medal (Meritorious) on or after May 13, 2013, shall be subject to the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and the fee provided for in § 55-4-203(c)(1) [now § 55-4-204(c)(1)]. Any Air Medal military cultural plates initially issued to any recipient of the Air Medal (Valor) on or after May 13, 2013, and prior to May 19, 2014, shall be memorial plates upon their first renewal on or after May 13, 2013; provided, that the plates shall not be subject to the regular registration fee and shall be free of charge pursuant to § 55-4-203(b) [now § 55-4-204(b)].

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-251. Annual verification process for memorial registration plates and military registration plates.

1. This section shall apply to memorial registration plates described in § 55-4-203(c)(4) and military registration plates described in § 55-4-203(c)(5)(F).
2. Each registration plate to which this section applies shall be subject to a verification process that shall occur annually upon the renewal of the plate, if applicable, or upon such other time as determined by the department. The department may prescribe the form and manner of submitting any proof or documentation required by this section; provided, that the holder shall be permitted to submit such proof or documentation by mail or in person.
3. At the time of annual verification, the holder of the plate shall submit satisfactory proof that the holder is a resident of the county in which the vehicle is registered, and any other proof that the department may require showing that the holder is complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration.
4. If the holder of the plate is deceased as of the date of annual verification, and if the copy of the death certificate of the deceased holder has not been previously submitted, then the surviving spouse of the deceased or the personal representative of the deceased holder's estate shall submit a copy of the death certificate at the time of the annual verification.
5. If any surviving spouse of a deceased holder of a plate wishes to continue the issuance of, and retain the plate formerly held by the deceased holder, or apply for issuance of the plate to which the deceased spouse was entitled, as authorized by § 55-4-261, § 55-4-257, § 55-4-263, § 55-4-252, or § 55-4-253, as applicable, then the surviving spouse shall do so at the time of the annual verification. The surviving spouse shall submit a copy of the death certificate of the deceased holder and documentation showing the surviving spouse is a resident of the county for which the vehicle that is owned or leased by the deceased holder or surviving spouse is registered, and shall pay any applicable fees.

Acts 2014, ch. 966, § 22; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-316.

55-4-252. United States military — Active, retired and honorably discharged members — Military reserves.

1. Registration plates are authorized for active, retired and honorably discharged members of the United States military and the United States military reserves in good standing. The plates are approved for display on motor vehicles that are authorized by § 55-4-210(c) and that are owned and operated, or leased by, a member or member's spouse. A surviving spouse of a deceased retired or honorably discharged member or of a member who died while on active duty, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and upon paying the regular fee applicable to the vehicle and the fee prescribed by § 55-4-204, shall be issued a registration plate pursuant to this section, until the surviving spouse remarries.
2. The registration plates shall be of a distinctive design as approved by the commissioner and shall include the appropriate emblem of the branch of service of the recipient of the plate. The registration plates shall also contain the words “Volunteer State” at the bottom of the plates.
3. The registration plate authorized pursuant to this section shall be issued upon payment of the regular registration fee pursuant to this chapter and the additional fee prescribed by § 55-4-204.
4. 1. All applications pursuant to this section shall contain all information that the commissioner requires to prove eligibility for issuance of a license plate pursuant to this section; provided, that, notwithstanding any law to the contrary, a retired member of the United States military or the United States military reserves shall be required to submit retirement status documentation only when initially applying for registration plates under this section and subsequent registration plates under this section shall be issued to that person without the repeated presentation of retirement status documentation. Eligibility for the cultural registration plate for United States reserve forces shall be determined by the department in consultation with the appropriate information on current and valid DD Form 2A (Res), DD Form 2N (Res), DD Form 2MC (Res), DD Form 2AF (Res), DD Form 2CG (Res) (Armed Forces of the United States Identification Card), citing that the request is submitted by a member of the United States reserve forces, or current and valid stationing orders citing that the request is submitted by an active duty member of the United States reserve forces.
   2. A retired member of the United States military and the United States military reserves in good standing who has participated in full or voluntary early retirement authorized by the branch of the United States armed forces in which the retired member served shall also be eligible for the issuance of a cultural plate pursuant to this section. Eligibility for the cultural registration plates for retired members of the United States armed forces who have participated in full or voluntary early retirement shall be determined by the department, in consultation with the appropriate information on these retired members' “Certificate of Release of Discharge from Active Duty” or on the current and valid forms enumerated in subdivision (d)(1). The retired members' plate shall be distinguished by a retired decal placed below the branch of service located on the left side of the license plate.
   3. An active duty member of the United States military and the United States military reserves in good standing shall also be eligible for the issuance of a cultural plate pursuant to this section. Eligibility for the cultural registration plates for active duty members of the United States armed forces shall be determined by the department, in consultation with the appropriate information on the active duty member's stationing orders required in subdivision (d)(1).
   4. An honorably discharged member of the United States military and the United States military reserves in good standing shall also be eligible for the issuance of a cultural plate pursuant to this section. Eligibility for the cultural registration plates for honorably discharged members of the United States armed forces shall be determined by the department and by consulting the appropriate information on the DD214 form. An honorably discharged member's plate shall be distinguished by an honorably discharged decal placed below the branch of service located on the left side of the license plate.
5. Each recipient of a military plate issued pursuant to this section may apply an appropriate decal to the plate that designates the military unit in which the recipient served and/or the purpose for which the plate has been issued. The decal, and the placement of the decal, shall be subject to the approval of the commissioners of revenue and veterans services. The cost of this decal shall be borne by the recipient of the plate wishing to apply the decal.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2002, ch. 866, § 3; 2006, ch. 964, §§ 17, 18; 2007, ch. 484, § 55; 2010, ch. 1151, § 53; 2014, ch. 966, § 21; 2015, ch. 24, § 7; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-244.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2010, ch. 1151.

Acts 2015, ch. 24,  § 7 provided that the Tennessee Code Commission is requested to change references in Tennessee Code Annotated, as volumes are replaced and supplements are issued, from “veterans’ affairs” and “veterans affairs” to “veterans services” wherever the language appears in reference to the name or commissioner of the Tennessee department of veterans services.

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-253. Honorably discharged veterans.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is an honorably discharged veteran of the United States armed forces, or a civilian veteran of the United States army corps of engineers, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and upon paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided in § 55-4-204, shall be issued an honorably discharged veteran registration plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c). A surviving spouse of such a deceased honorably discharged veteran, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, upon paying the regular fee applicable to the vehicle and the fee prescribed by § 55-4-204, and upon providing a copy of the death certificate of the deceased honorably discharged veteran, shall be issued a registration plate pursuant to this section, until the surviving spouse remarries.
2. All applications pursuant to this section shall be accompanied by orders or a statement of discharge from the appropriate branch of the United States armed forces classifying the applicant as an honorably discharged veteran, or by orders or official documentation from the United States army corps of engineers classifying the applicant as a civilian veteran; provided, that, notwithstanding any law to the contrary, an honorably discharged veteran of the United States armed forces or a surviving spouse of an honorably discharged veteran of the United States armed forces shall be required to submit the required documentation only when initially applying for registration plates under this section and subsequent registration plates under this section shall be issued to that person without the repeated presentation of the required documentation. This subsection (b) shall not apply in the case of an application by a surviving spouse in which the deceased honorably discharged veteran had been issued a license plate or license plates under this section.
3. 1. The registration plates provided for in this section shall be designed in consultation with the commissioner of veterans services.
   2. The design of registration plates that are issued pursuant to this section shall bear the name of the county of issue on the lower edge of the tag.
   3. For honorably discharged veterans and civilian veterans, the American flag shall be in the center of the license plate.
   4. 1. For honorably discharged veterans and civilian veterans of Vietnam, the center emblem shall be the American flag. A Southeast Asia campaign medal or appropriate civilian documentation shall have been awarded in order to obtain the Vietnam Veteran plate.
      2. For honorably discharged veterans and civilian veterans who served during the time that Vietnam occurred but who do not qualify for issuance of the Vietnam Veteran plate, the American flag shall be in the center of the license plate and the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Vietnam Era Veteran.” Nothing in this subdivision (c)(4)(B) prohibits any veteran or civilian veteran who served during Vietnam from requesting issuance of the honorably discharged veteran plate that is authorized by subsection (a).
   5. 1. For veterans and civilian veterans of World War II, the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “WW II Veteran,” and the symbol on the left shall be the Honorable Service Lapel Pin, also known as the ruptured duck. Proof of honorable military or civilian service between December 7, 1941, and December 31, 1946, shall be required to obtain this plate.
      2. For honorably discharged veterans and civilian veterans who served during the time that World War II occurred but who do not qualify for issuance of the World War II Veteran plate, the American flag shall be in the center of the license plate and the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “World War II Era Veteran.” Nothing in this subdivision (c)(5)(B) prohibits any veteran or civilian veteran who served during World War II from requesting issuance of the honorably discharged veteran plate that is authorized by subsection (a).
   6. 1. For veterans and civilian veterans of the Korean War, the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Korean War Veteran,” and the symbol on the left shall be the American flag. A Korean Service Medal shall have been awarded for an honorably discharged veteran, or appropriate civilian documentation, to obtain this plate.
      2. For honorably discharged veterans and civilian veterans who served during the time that the Korean War occurred but who do not qualify for issuance of the Korean War Veteran plate, the American flag shall be in the center of the license plate and the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Korean War Era Veteran.” Nothing in this subdivision (c)(6)(B) prohibits any veteran or civilian veteran who served during the Korean War from requesting issuance of the honorably discharged veteran plate that is authorized by subsection (a).
   7. 1. For veterans and civilian veterans of Operation Desert Storm, the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Desert Storm Veteran,” and the symbol on the left shall be the American flag. Award of the Southwest Asia Service Medal and proof of honorable service, or appropriate civilian documentation, shall be required for a veteran or civilian veteran to obtain this plate.
      2. For honorably discharged veterans and civilian veterans who served during the time that Operation Desert Storm occurred but who do not qualify for issuance of the Desert Storm Veteran plate, the American flag shall be in the center of the license plate and the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Desert Storm Era Veteran.” Nothing in this subdivision (c)(7)(B) prohibits any veteran or civilian veteran who served during Operation Desert Storm from requesting issuance of the honorably discharged veteran plate that is authorized by subsection (a).
   8. 1. For veterans and civilian veterans of the peacekeeping mission in Bosnia, the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Bosnia Veteran”, and the symbol on the left shall be the American flag. Proof of honorable service, or appropriate civilian documentation, shall be required for a veteran or civilian veteran to obtain this plate.
      2. For honorably discharged veterans and civilian veterans who served during the time that the peacekeeping mission in Bosnia occurred but who do not qualify for issuance of the Bosnia Veteran plate, the American flag shall be in the center of the license plate and the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Bosnia Era Veteran.” Nothing in this subdivision (c)(8)(B) prohibits any veteran or civilian veteran who served during the peacekeeping mission in Bosnia from requesting issuance of the honorably discharged veteran plate that is authorized by subsection (a).
   9. 1. For honorably discharged veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom and active members of the United States armed forces who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Operation Iraqi Freedom,” and the symbol on the left shall be the American flag, below which shall appear the word “VETERAN” in letters of an appropriate size. The commissioner of veterans services shall also set proof of service requirements for veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom to obtain the plate.
      2. For honorably discharged veterans who served during the time that Operation Iraqi Freedom occurred but who do not qualify for issuance of the Operation Iraqi Freedom plate, the American flag shall be in the center of the license plate and the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Operation Iraqi Freedom Era.” Nothing in this subdivision (c)(9)(B) prohibits any veteran who served during Operation Iraqi Freedom from requesting issuance of the honorably discharged veteran plate that is authorized by subsection (a).
   10. 1. For honorably discharged veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom and active members of the United States armed forces who served in Operation Enduring Freedom, the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Operation Enduring Freedom,” and the symbol on the left shall be the American flag, below which shall appear the word “VETERAN” in letters of an appropriate size. The commissioner of veterans services shall also set proof of service requirements for veterans who have served in Operation Enduring Freedom to obtain the plate.
       2. For honorably discharged veterans who served during Operation Enduring Freedom but who do not qualify for issuance of the Operation Enduring Freedom plate, the American flag shall be in the center of the license plate and the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Operation Enduring Freedom Era.” Nothing in this subdivision (c)(10)(B) prohibits any veteran who served during Operation Enduring Freedom from requesting issuance of the honorably discharged veteran plate that is authorized by subsection (a).
   11. 1. For honorably discharged veterans of Operation New Dawn and active members of the United States armed forces who served in Operation New Dawn, the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Operation New Dawn,” and the symbol on the left shall be the American flag, below which shall appear the word “VETERAN” in letters of an appropriate size. The commissioner of veterans services shall also set proof of service requirements for veterans who have served in Operation New Dawn to obtain the plate.
       2. For honorably discharged veterans who served during Operation New Dawn but who do not qualify for issuance of the Operation New Dawn Veteran plate, the American flag shall be in the center of the license plate and the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Operation New Dawn Era.” Nothing in this subdivision (c)(11)(B) prohibits any veteran who served during Operation New Dawn from requesting issuance of the honorably discharged veteran plate that is authorized by subsection (a).
   12. For honorably discharged veterans who served during the period between the announcement of the Truman Doctrine on March 12, 1947, and the collapse of the Soviet Union on December 26, 1991, with this period being known as the Cold War, the American flag shall be in the center of the license plate and the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Cold War Era Veteran.” Nothing in this subdivision (c)(12) prohibits any veteran who served during this period from requesting issuance of the honorably discharged veteran plate that is authorized by subsection (a) or any other plate authorized by this subsection (c) for which the veteran qualifies.
   13. 1. For honorably discharged veterans of the peacekeeping mission in Somalia occurring between December 5, 1992 and March 3, 1994, the plate shall be designed by the commissioner of veterans services in consultation with the commissioner of revenue. The commissioner of veterans services shall also set proof of service requirements for honorably discharged veterans to obtain this plate.
       2. For honorably discharged veterans who served during the time that the peacekeeping mission in Somalia occurred but who do not qualify for issuance of the Somalia Veteran plate, the American flag shall be in the center of the license plate and the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Somalia Era Veteran”. Nothing in this subdivision (c)(13)(B) prohibits any veteran who served during the peacekeeping mission in Somalia from requesting issuance of the honorably discharged veteran plate that is authorized by subsection (a).
   14. For honorably discharged veterans and active members of the United States armed forces who served in South Korea after the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement in support of the defense of the South Korean state and who qualify for the Korea Defense Service Medal, the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Korean Defense Service”, and the plate shall include an identification legend distinctive to recipients of the Korea Defense Service Medal. The commissioner of veterans services shall set proof of service requirements for eligible veterans and military service members to obtain the plate.
   15. 1. For honorably discharged veterans of Operation Inherent Resolve and active members of the United States armed forces who served in Operation Inherent Resolve, the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Operation Inherent Resolve” and the symbol on the left shall be the American flag, below which shall appear the word “VETERAN” in letters of an appropriate size. The commissioner of veterans services shall also set proof of service requirements for veterans who have served in Operation Inherent Resolve to obtain the plate.
       2. For honorably discharged veterans who served during Operation Inherent Resolve but who do not qualify for issuance of the Operation Inherent Resolve plate, the American flag shall be in the center of the license plate and the strip along the bottom of the license plate shall read “Operation Inherent Resolve Era”. Nothing in this subdivision (c)(15)(B) prohibits any veteran who served during Operation Inherent Resolve from requesting issuance of the honorably discharged veteran plate that is authorized by subsection (a).
4. The commissioner of revenue is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to effectuate the purposes of this section. All rules and regulations shall be promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2006, ch. 964, §§ 13, 14; 2007, ch. 484, § 56; 2007, ch. 604, § 20; 2010, ch. 1151, § 21; 2012, ch. 791, §§ 1, 3; 2013, ch. 484, § 27; 2014, ch. 941, § 18; 2015, ch. 24, § 7; 2017, ch. 384, §§ 45-50; 2018, ch. 1023, §§ 39, 49; 2019, ch. 75, § 1; 2019, ch. 253, §§ 10, 15, 25.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2010, ch. 1151.

Acts 2012, ch. 791, § 2 provided that it is the legislative intent that the redesign of license plates provided for in subdivisions (c)(9) and (10) shall only be effectuated upon the existing inventory of such plates being utilized by the department of revenue.

Acts 2015, ch. 24,  § 7 provided that the Tennessee Code Commission is requested to change references in Tennessee Code Annotated, as volumes are replaced and supplements are issued, from “veterans’ affairs” and “veterans affairs” to “veterans services” wherever the language appears in reference to the name or commissioner of the Tennessee department of veterans services.

Acts 2017, ch. 384, § 51 provided that the redesign of the Vietnam Veteran, Korean War Veteran, Operation Desert Storm, Operation lraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation New Dawn license plates provided for in §§ 45 through 50 of the act, which amended this section, shall only be effectuated upon the existing  inventory of the plates being utilized by the department of revenue.

Acts 2019, ch. 75, § 2 provided that the redesign of the Bosnia Veteran license plate provided for in section 1 of the act, which amended this section, shall only be effectuated upon the existing inventory of the plates being utilized by the department of revenue.

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-254. United States reserve forces.

1. A member of the United States reserve forces shall be issued a registration plate, upon request, for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c), upon complying with the title and registration laws and paying the regular fee applicable to the vehicle and the additional fee prescribed by § 55-4-204.
2. The registration plates provided for in this section shall include an identification legend distinctive to members of the United States reserve forces. The legend shall read “US Reserve Forces.” The registration number of the plates shall include the letters “US” and a unique identifying number.
3. Eligibility for United States reserve forces registration plates shall be determined by the department in consultation with the appropriate information on current and valid DD Form 2A (Res), DD Form 2N (Res), DD Form 2MC (Res), DD Form 2AF (Res) or DD Form 2CG (Res) (Armed Forces of the United States identification card), citing that the request is submitted by a member of the United States reserve forces.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-242.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-255. National guard members.

1. Special purpose and distinctive license plates are authorized for active, retired and honorably discharged members of the Tennessee national guard in good standing. The plates are approved for display on motor vehicles authorized by § 55-4-210(c) that are owned and operated or leased by a member or member's spouse. A surviving spouse of a national guard member, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and upon paying the regular fee applicable to the vehicle and a revenue-neutral fee equal to the cost of producing the special purpose plate, may apply for issuance of a national guard registration plate pursuant to this section, which shall be valid until the surviving spouse remarries.
2. The commissioner shall, with the advice of the adjutant general and the department's taxpayer and vehicle services division director, select an appropriate format for the special purpose plates to include an identification legend which is distinctive to their use and which complies with general registration requirements for vehicles licensed in this state. Additionally, the commissioner shall specify the date by which the adjutant general shall furnish the estimate of the necessary number of plates to be manufactured for use in a given registration year, and shall prescribe the time and manner in which the adjutant general shall furnish lists of national guard members. The lists shall be suitable to the needs of the department and county clerks and shall comply with the requirements of the law for registering vehicles.
3. Chapters 1-6 of this title relating to titling and registering motor vehicles shall apply with respect to the issuance and use of these special purpose plates, except as otherwise provided in this section.
4. 1. The fees imposed for registrations using the special purpose plates shall be as follows:
      1. For enlisted national guard members there shall be no tax (fee) for registering the first vehicle and the regular license fee shall be collected for any additional vehicles;
      2. For national guard officers the tax (fee) shall be the regular license fee for each vehicle;
      3. For national guard retirees, the initial issuance of a special purpose plate and renewals shall be made upon payment of the regular registration fee applicable to the vehicle and a fee equal to the cost of producing the special purpose plate; provided, that the issuance of the plates shall be revenue neutral; and
      4. For honorably discharged national guard members, the initial issuance of a special purpose plate and renewals shall be made upon payment of the regular registration fee applicable to the vehicle and a fee equal to the cost of producing the special purpose plate; provided, however, that the issuance of the plates shall be revenue neutral.
   2. The county clerk in effecting registrations through the use of these special purpose plates shall collect other fees that have application for all registrations, such as service charges provided in § 55-6-104 and reassignment fees when applicable.
5. If a holder of a special purpose plate is discharged from the national guard prior to the expiration of the registration under which the plate was issued, the special purpose plate may remain valid for display on the vehicle until the expiration date of the registration, unless it was issued under the tax- exempt allowance. All plates that are issued under the tax-exempt allowance shall be surrendered to the national guard when the holders of the plates are discharged from service.
6. This authority for the use of special purpose license plates is not intended to allow the holders of the special purpose license plate to operate vehicles on which they are displayed in violation of state or local laws or ordinances which govern and relate to the use of motor vehicles.
7. All applications from retired national guard members shall contain information as the commissioner shall require to prove eligibility for issuance of a license plate. Eligibility for a special purpose registration plate for national guard retirees shall be determined by the department, in consultation with the appropriate information on an applicant's current and valid armed forces of Tennessee identification card, citing that the request is submitted by a retired member of the Tennessee national guard.
8. All applications from honorably discharged national guard members shall contain such information as the commissioner shall require to prove eligibility for issuance of a license plate. Eligibility for a special purpose registration plate for honorably discharged national guard members shall be determined by the department, in consultation with the appropriate information on an applicant's current and valid armed forces of Tennessee identification card, citing that the request is submitted by an honorably discharged member of the Tennessee national guard.
9. An application by a surviving spouse for a national guard license plate shall be accompanied by such information as the commissioner shall require to prove the member's eligibility for issuance of the license plate, to include a department of defense form 214 (DD 214) or an NGB form 22, showing adequate proof of service, and a copy of the relevant marriage certificate and death certificate, as further evidence of a surviving spouse's eligibility.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2003, ch. 280, §§ 1-3; 2007, ch. 484, § 50; 2018, ch. 691, §§ 1, 2; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-228.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

55-4-256. Disabled veterans.

1. 1. The department shall provide and issue, free of charge, to each disabled veteran in this state, registration and license plates for any motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) that is registered in the name of or leased by a disabled veteran, or by the disabled veteran and the spouse of the disabled veteran, including, but not limited to, a motor home containing life support equipment; provided, that the authorized motor vehicle or motor home shall not be used for rehire or for any other commercial purpose.
   2. One (1) disabled veteran memorial license plate may be issued free of charge to any qualified applicant pursuant to this section; provided, that one (1) additional plate may be obtained by any eligible person upon payment of the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and payment of one-half (½) of the fee provided for in § 55-4-204(c)(1). Additional disabled veteran license plates may be obtained by any disabled veteran upon payment of the regular license fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, plus the payment of a fee equal to the cost of actually producing the plate.
   3. For the purposes of this section, “disabled veteran” means a veteran having served in the military, naval, marine or air services of the United States, who is a resident of Tennessee and who is entitled to compensation under the laws administered by the veterans' administration for any of the following due to disability incurred in or aggravated by active military, naval, marine or air services of the United States:
      1. Loss or permanent loss of use of one (1) or both feet;
      2. Loss or permanent loss of use of one (1) or both hands; or
      3. Permanent impairment of vision of both eyes of the following status: central visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye, with corrective glasses, or central visual acuity of more than 20/200 if there is a field defect in which the peripheral field has contracted to such an extent that the widest diameter of visual field subtends an angular distance no greater than twenty degrees (20°) in the better eye.
2. Any disabled veteran in this state who has any other service-connected disability that is determined by the veterans' administration to constitute a one hundred percent (100%) permanent total disability shall be entitled, upon compliance with the registration laws and without being required to pay a fee, to the issuance of the registration plates provided for by this section.
3. Disabled veteran registration plates shall bear:
   1. The words “Disabled Veteran”;
   2. A registration number composed of the prefix “DV” and a unique identifying number; and
   3. A representation of the United States flag in the background.
4. A disabled veteran who is entitled under this section to be issued a memorial registration plate, free of charge, may elect in the alternative for the issuance of a registration plate for holders of the Purple Heart, free of charge, for one (1) motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) or one (1) motor home, as defined in subdivision (a)(1), which is owned or leased by the disabled veteran; provided, that a disabled veteran shall meet the requirements of § 55-4-257(c) in order to be eligible for the issuance of a registration plate for a holder of the Purple Heart.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2001, ch. 30, § 1; 2007, ch. 484, § 53; 2014, ch. 966, §§ 14, 15; 2018, ch. 1023, §§ 40, 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-237.

Compiler's Notes. The division of motor vehicles was transferred from the department of revenue to the department of safety by Executive Order No. 37 (June 29, 1990).

Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Acts 2014, ch. 966, § 30 provided that any memorial license plates issued free of charge prior to May 19, 2014, to an eligible person under the following sections as they existed prior to May 19, 2014, shall be free of charge and shall not be subject to the regular registration fee for such plates: Sections 55-4-235 for former prisoners of war, 55-4-233 or 55-4-236, as applicable, for recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor, 55-4-236 for recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Navy Cross, or the Air Force Cross, 55-4-237 for disabled veterans, including those disabled veterans who choose to receive the Purple Heart plate pursuant to Section 55-4-237(d), or 55-4-239 for holders of the Purple Heart plate or surviving spouses of deceased holders of the Purple Heart plate. Such persons shall be entitled to retain the plates for vehicular use upon compliance with all motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles.

Acts 2018, ch. 1023, § 41 provided that the redesign of the Disabled Veteran license plates provided for in this section shall only be effectuated upon the existing inventory of the plates being utilized by the department of revenue.

Cross-References. Disabled veterans and physically disabled persons, identification and parking certificates, § 55-21-106.

Disabled veterans, memorial registration plates, § 55-4-250.

Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-257. Holders of the Purple Heart.

1. A holder of the Purple Heart shall be issued a special memorial registration plate upon request, upon complying with the title and registration law.
2. The special plates provided for in this section shall be issued in conformity with § 55-4-203, shall include an identification legend distinctive to the holders of the Purple Heart, and be designed by the commissioner in consultation with the department's taxpayer and vehicle services director. The legend shall read “Purple Heart Veteran, Combat Wounded.” The registration number of the special plate shall include the letters “PH” and a unique identifying number, whereby the total characters do not exceed the sum of seven (7).
3. Eligibility for the special memorial registration plate shall be determined by the department in consultation with the appropriate information on the DD214 form, or in a case of military service predating 1950, in consultation with appropriate information on the equivalent form or on other official documentation, citing that the request is submitted by a holder of the Purple Heart.
4. Persons eligible for such special memorial registration plates shall be eligible to apply for plates on a vehicle owned or leased by the person or owned or leased by a company and furnished to the person; provided, that all appropriate fees, including the supplemental twenty-five-dollar special fee, if still applicable to this category of plates, shall be paid. Special memorial registration plates for holders of the Purple Heart that are issued or renewed on or after July 1, 2007, shall not be subject to the twenty-five-dollar special fee, but shall be free of charge pursuant to § 55-4-204(b), except as provided in subdivision (e)(2).
5. 1. A disabled veteran who is entitled to be issued a special memorial registration plate, free of charge, pursuant to § 55-4-256, may elect in the alternative for the issuance of one (1) special memorial registration plate for holders of the Purple Heart, free of charge, for one (1) motor vehicle or one (1) recreational vehicle owned or leased by that disabled veteran; provided, that a disabled veteran shall meet the requirements of subsection (c) in order to be eligible for the issuance of a special memorial registration plate for holders of the Purple Heart.
   2. One (1) additional plate may be obtained by any eligible disabled veteran upon payment of the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and payment of one-half (½) of the fee provided for in § 55-4-204(c)(1). Additional plates may be obtained by any person entitled to receive the holders of the Purple Heart registration plate upon payment of the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204(c)(1).
6. 1. Upon the death of the spouse who was entitled to receive a holder of the Purple Heart registration plate, the surviving spouse shall be entitled to receive a Purple Heart registration plate for any motor vehicle or recreational vehicle owned or leased by the surviving spouse. The application shall be accompanied by a copy of the death certificate. To be entitled to the plate, the surviving spouse shall pay the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204(c)(1).
   2. Plates issued to, or renewed by, surviving spouses under this section as it existed prior to May 19, 2014, shall not be subject to the regular registration fee or the cost of producing the plate, and shall be free of charge.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2007, ch. 484, § 54; 2007, ch. 604, §§ 45, 46; 2008, ch. 1165, § 47; 2010, ch. 1151, § 1; 2011, ch. 491, § 18; 2014, ch. 966, §§ 16, 17; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-239.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2008, ch. 1165.

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2010, ch. 1151.

Acts 2014, ch. 966, § 30 provided that any memorial license plates issued free of charge prior to May 19, 2014, to an eligible person under the following sections as they existed prior to May 19, 2014, shall be free of charge and shall not be subject to the regular registration fee for such plates: Sections 55-4-235 for former prisoners of war, 55-4-233 or 55-4-236, as applicable, for recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor, 55-4-236 for recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Navy Cross, or the Air Force Cross, 55-4-237 for disabled veterans, including those disabled veterans who choose to receive the Purple Heart plate pursuant to Section 55-4-237(d), or 55-4-239 for holders of the Purple Heart plate or surviving spouses of deceased holders of the Purple Heart plate. Such persons shall be entitled to retain the plates for vehicular use upon compliance with all motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles.

Acts 2018, ch. 1023, § 57. July 1, 2018.

Cross-References. Holders of the Purple Heart, memorial registration plates, § 55-4-256.

Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-258. Congressional Medal of Honor recipients.

1. Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, the department shall provide and issue, free of charge, to each resident of this state who is a recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor, upon presentation of proper application, Medal of Honor memorial registration plates for one (1) motor vehicle or motor home which is registered or leased for private use in the name of any one (1) recipient. For the purposes of this section, “private use” vehicle means any motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) or motor home that is not used for rehire or for any other commercial purpose. One (1) additional plate may be obtained by any eligible recipient upon payment of the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and payment of one-half (½) of the fee provided for in § 55-4-204(c)(1). Additional plates may be obtained by any eligible recipient upon payment of the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204(c)(1).
2. The Medal of Honor memorial plates provided for in this section shall be the same as regular registration plates, but shall be of a distinctive design which denotes the importance of these distinguished veterans and the high regard in which this state holds the heroic recipients of the highest military decoration. The legend shall read “Medal of Honor.” The registration number of the plate shall include the letters “CM” and a unique identifying number.
3. 1. Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, eligibility for the Medal of Honor memorial plate shall be determined by the department by consulting the appropriate information on the:
      1. DD214 form and a copy of the orders that awarded the medal or copy of the certificate or citation granting the medal, in the case of an applicant who has been discharged from the armed forces;
      2. Copy of the orders that awarded the medal or copy of the certificate or citation granting the medal, in the case of an applicant who has not been discharged from the armed forces; or
      3. A written communication from the department of veterans services, in the case of an applicant who does not possess the documentation required by subdivision (c)(1)(A) or (c)(1)(B).
   2. The form, documentation or communication required by subdivision (c)(1) shall certify that the application for the plate is submitted by a recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor.
   3. Any person issued a Medal of Honor plate under this chapter prior to June 21, 2013, shall submit to the department of revenue the appropriate information required by this subsection (c) within thirty (30) days after June 21, 2013. If any such person to whom a Medal of Honor plate has been issued does not comply with this subdivision (c)(3) or the department of revenue determines that the person is not eligible for the plate, the person shall surrender the plate to the county clerk of the county of the person's residence within thirty (30) days of noncompliance or determination of ineligibility, whichever is sooner.

Acts 2013, ch. 318, § 2; 2014, ch. 966, §§ 10, 11; 2015, ch. 24, § 7; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-233.

Compiler's Notes. Acts 2014, ch. 966, § 30 provided that any memorial license plates issued free of charge prior to May 19, 2014, to an eligible person under the following sections as they existed prior to such date, shall be free of charge and shall not be subject to the regular registration fee for such plates: Sections 55-4-235 for former prisoners of war, 55-4-233 or 55-4-236, as applicable, for recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor, 55-4-236 for recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Navy Cross, or the Air Force Cross, 55-4-237 for disabled veterans, including those disabled veterans who choose to receive the Purple Heart plate pursuant to Section 55-4-237(d), or 55-4-239 for holders of the Purple Heart plate or surviving spouses of deceased holders of the Purple Heart plate. Such persons shall be entitled to retain the plates for vehicular use upon compliance with all motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles.

Acts 2015, ch. 24,  § 7 provided that the Tennessee Code Commission is requested to change references in Tennessee Code Annotated, as volumes are replaced and supplements are issued, from “veterans’ affairs” and “veterans affairs” to “veterans services” wherever the language appears in reference to the name or commissioner of the Tennessee department of veterans services.

55-4-259. Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, Air Force Cross, Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star (Valor), and Air Medal (Valor) recipients.

1. The department shall provide and issue, free of charge, to each resident of this state who is a recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross, the Navy Cross, the Air Force Cross, the Silver Star, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star (Valor), or the Air Medal (Valor), upon presentation of proper application, a memorial registration plate for one (1) motor vehicle or motor home which is registered or leased for private use in the name of any one (1) recipient. One (1) additional plate may be obtained by any eligible recipient upon payment of the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and payment of one-half (½) of the fee provided for in § 55-4-204(c)(1). Additional plates may be obtained by any eligible recipient upon payment of the regular registration fee applicable for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204(c)(1). For the purposes of this section, “private use” vehicle means any motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) or motor home that is not used for rehire or for any other commercial purpose.
2. 1. The memorial plates provided for in this section shall be the same as regular registration plates, but shall be of a distinctive design which denotes the importance of these distinguished veterans and the high regard in which this state holds the courageous recipients of these military decorations.
   2. 1. On and after May 19, 2014, no plate on which the legend reads “Legion of Valor” shall be issued to any person entitled to a memorial or military cultural registration plate under this chapter, including any recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross or Air Force Cross. A recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross or Air Force Cross shall be issued a distinctive Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross or Air Force Cross memorial registration plate, as appropriate.
      2. The Distinguished Service Cross plates provided for in this section shall include an identification legend distinctive to recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross. The legend shall read “Distinguished Service Cross.” The registration number of the plate shall include the letters “SC” and a unique identifying number.
      3. The Navy Cross plates provided for in this section shall include an identification legend distinctive to recipients of the Navy Cross. The legend shall read “Navy Cross.” The registration number of the plate shall include the letters “NC” and a unique identifying number.
      4. The Air Force Cross plates provided for in this section shall include an identification legend distinctive to recipients of the Air Force Cross. The legend shall read “Air Force Cross.” The registration number of the plate shall include the letters “AC” and a unique identifying number.
   3. 1. A recipient of the Silver Star, the Bronze Star (Valor), Air Medal (Valor), or the Distinguished Flying Cross shall be issued a distinctive Silver Star, Bronze Star (Valor), Air Medal (Valor), or Distinguished Flying Cross memorial plate, as appropriate.
      2. The Silver Star plates provided for in this section shall include an identification legend distinctive to recipients of the Silver Star. The legend shall read “Silver Star — Valor.” The registration number of the plate shall include the letters “SS” and a unique identifying number.
      3. The Bronze Star (Valor) plates provided for in this section shall include an identification legend distinctive to recipients of the Bronze Star (Valor). The legend shall read “Bronze Star — Valor.” The registration number of the plate shall include the letters “BSV” and a unique identifying number.
      4. The Air Medal (Valor) plates provided for in this section shall include an identification legend distinctive to recipients of the Air Medal (Valor). The legend shall read “Air Medal — Valor.” The registration number of the plate shall include the letters “REV” and a unique identifying number.
      5. The Distinguished Flying Cross plates provided for in this section shall include an identification legend distinctive to recipients of the Distinguished Flying Cross. The legend shall read “Distinguished Flying Cross.” The registration number of the plate shall include the letters “FC” and a unique identifying number.
3. 1. Notwithstanding any provision of this section or any other law to the contrary, eligibility for the memorial plates provided for in this section shall be determined by the department by consulting the appropriate information on the:
      1. DD214 form and a copy of the orders that awarded the medal or copy of the certificate or citation granting the medal, in the case of an applicant who has been discharged from the armed forces;
      2. Copy of the orders that awarded the medal or copy of the certificate or citation granting the medal, in the case of an applicant who has not been discharged from the armed forces; or
      3. A written communication from the department of veterans services, in the case of an applicant who does not possess the documentation required by subdivision (c)(1)(A) or (c)(1)(B).
   2. The form, documentation, or communication required by subdivision (c)(1) shall certify that the application for the plate is submitted by a recipient of the military decorations described in this section, as appropriate.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2007, ch. 484, § 52; 2011, ch. 491, § 24; 2013, ch. 318, §§ 1, 3; 2014, ch. 966, §§ 6, 7; 2015, ch. 24, § 7; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-236; Acts 2019, ch. 171, § 1.

Compiler's Notes. The division of motor vehicles was transferred from the department of revenue to the department of safety by Executive Order No. 37 (June 29, 1990).

Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Acts 2013, ch. 318,  § 13, as amended by Acts 2014, ch. 966, § 28, provided that, notwithstanding any law to the contrary, any person issued an Air Medal memorial license plate prior to June 21, 2013, shall be entitled to retain the plate for vehicular use upon compliance with all motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles. Any Air Medal military cultural plates initially issued to any recipient of the Air Medal (Meritorious) on or after May 13, 2013, shall be subject to the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and the fee provided for in § 55-4-203(c)(1) [now § 55-4-204(c)(1)]. Any Air Medal military cultural plates initially issued to any recipient of the Air Medal (Valor) on or after May 13, 2013, and prior to May 19, 2014, shall be memorial plates upon their first renewal on or after May 13, 2013; provided, that the plates shall not be subject to the regular registration fee and shall be free of charge pursuant to § 55-4-203(b) [now § 55-4-204(b)].

Acts 2014, ch. 966, § 29 provided that notwithstanding title 55, chapter 4, any person issued a Handicapped Veteran, Legion of Valor, Silver Star, Bronze Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, or Air Medal license plate prior to May 19, 2014, shall be entitled to retain the license plate for vehicular use upon compliance with all motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles.

Acts 2014, ch. 966, § 30 provided that any memorial license plates issued free of charge prior to May 19, 2014, to an eligible person under the following sections as they existed prior to May 19, 2014, shall be free of charge and shall not be subject to the regular registration fee for such plates: Sections 55-4-235 for former prisoners of war, 55-4-233 or 55-4-236, as applicable, for recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor, 55-4-236 for recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Navy Cross, or the Air Force Cross, 55-4-237 for disabled veterans, including those disabled veterans who choose to receive the Purple Heart plate pursuant to Section 55-4-237(d), or 55-4-239 for holders of the Purple Heart plate or surviving spouses of deceased holders of the Purple Heart plate. Such persons shall be entitled to retain the plates for vehicular use upon compliance with all motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles.

Acts 2015, ch. 24,  § 7 provided that the Tennessee Code Commission is requested to change references in Tennessee Code Annotated, as volumes are replaced and supplements are issued, from “veterans’ affairs” and “veterans affairs” to “veterans services” wherever the language appears in reference to the name or commissioner of the Tennessee department of veterans services.

Acts 2019, ch. 171, § 2 provided that the department shall make the change required by act section 1 (which amended subdivision (b)(3)(B)),  to the Silver Star license plates upon the exhaustion of the current inventory of the plates.

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-260. Bronze Star (Meritorious) and Air Medal (Meritorious) recipients.

1. A recipient of the Bronze Star (Meritorious) or the Air Medal (Meritorious) who is a resident of this state and who is an owner or lessee of a motor vehicle, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and upon paying the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204(c)(1), shall be issued a distinctive Air Medal (Meritorious) or Bronze Star (Meritorious) motor vehicle registration plate, as appropriate, for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. 1. The Bronze Star (Meritorious) plates provided for in this section shall include an identification legend distinctive to recipients of the Bronze Star (Meritorious). The legend shall read “Bronze Star — Meritorious.” The registration number of the plate shall include the letters “BSM” and a unique identifying number.
   2. The Air Medal (Meritorious) plates provided for in this section shall include an identification legend distinctive to recipients of the Air Medal (Meritorious). The legend shall read “Air Medal — Meritorious.” The registration number of the plate shall include the letters “REM” and a unique identifying number.
3. Eligibility for Air Medal (Meritorious) plates and Bronze Star (Meritorious) plates shall be determined by the department by consulting the appropriate information on the DD214 form, or in a case of military service predating 1950, in consultation with appropriate information on the equivalent form or on other official documentation, or a written communication from the department of veterans services, the form, documentation or communication certifying that the application for the plate is submitted by a recipient of the Bronze Star (Meritorious) or the Air Medal (Meritorious), as appropriate.
4. 1. Any Air Medal (Meritorious or Valor) license plate issued to any recipient of the Air Medal prior to May 13, 2013, shall not be subject to the regular registration fee and shall be free of charge pursuant to § 55-4-204(b).
   2. Any Air Medal license plate initially issued to any recipient of the Air Medal (Meritorious) on or after May 13, 2013, shall be military cultural plates on and after such date; provided, that the plate shall be subject to the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204(c)(1).
   3. 1. Any Air Medal license plates initially issued to any recipient of the Air Medal (Valor) on or after May 13, 2013, and prior to May 19, 2014, shall be memorial plates upon their first renewal on or after May 13, 2013; provided, that the plates shall not be subject to the regular registration fee and shall be free of charge pursuant to § 55-4-204(b).
      2. Any Air Medal license plates initially issued to any recipient of the Air Medal (Valor) on or after May 19, 2014, shall be memorial plates on and after May 19, 2014; provided, that the plates shall not be subject to the regular registration fee and shall be free of charge pursuant to § 55-4-204(b).
   4. Any Silver Star or Bronze Star (Valor) plates issued prior to May 19, 2014, shall be considered memorial plates upon their first renewal on or after May 19, 2014; provided, that such plates shall not be subject to the regular registration fee and shall be free of charge pursuant to § 55-4-204(b).

Acts 2002, ch. 876, § 6; 2007, ch. 484, § 51; 2013, ch. 318, §§ 10-12; 2014, ch. 966, §§ 1, 8, 9; 2015, ch. 24, § 7; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-231.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

In view of § 55-4-201(c)(1) [now § 55-4-202(c)(1)], former § 55-4-231 (Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1) was deleted as obsolete and invalid by the Code Commission in 2000, as the Shriners plates named in this section continued to fail to meet the minimum requirements for existence.

Acts 2002, ch. 876, § 64 provided that the provisions of § 55-4-201(f)  [now § 55-4-202(f)], shall not apply to that act.

Acts 2002, ch. 876, § 65 provided that the commissioner of safety is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to effectuate the provisions of that act. All such rules and regulations shall be promulgated in accordance with the provisions of the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5.

Acts 2013, ch. 318,  § 13, as amended by Acts 2014, ch. 966, § 28, provided that notwithstanding any law to the contrary, any person issued an Air Medal memorial license plate prior to June 21, 2013, shall be entitled to retain the plate for vehicular use upon compliance with all motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles. Any Air Medal military cultural plates initially issued to any recipient of the Air Medal (Meritorious) on or after May 13, 2013, shall be subject to the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and the fee provided for in § 55-4-203(c)(1) [now  [now § 55-4-204(c)(1)]. Any Air Medal military cultural plates initially issued to any recipient of the Air Medal (Valor) on or after May 13, 2013, and prior to May 19, 2014, shall be memorial plates upon their first renewal on or after May 13, 2013; provided, that the plates shall not be subject to the regular registration fee and shall be free of charge pursuant to § 55-4-203(b)  [now § 55-4-204(b)].

Acts 2014, ch. 966, § 29 provided that notwithstanding title 55, chapter 4, any person issued a Handicapped Veteran, Legion of Valor, Silver Star, Bronze Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, or Air Medal license plate prior to May 19, 2014, shall be entitled to retain the license plate for vehicular use upon compliance with all motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles.

Acts 2015, ch. 24,  § 7 provided that the Tennessee Code Commission is requested to change references in Tennessee Code Annotated, as volumes are replaced and supplements are issued, from “veterans’ affairs” and “veterans affairs” to “veterans services” wherever the language appears in reference to the name or commissioner of the Tennessee department of veterans services.

55-4-261. Former prisoners of war.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is a former prisoner of World War I, World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War, or the surviving spouse of the former prisoner of war, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and upon application, shall be issued one (1) license plate for any one (1) motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c), by the department, free of charge for life or, in the case of a surviving spouse, until that surviving spouse remarries. The application shall be accompanied by a certificate from the United States defense department stating the period of time that the applicant was a prisoner of war or, in the case of an application by a surviving spouse for continuation of a license plate or plates formerly held by a deceased spouse prisoner-of-war, a copy of the death certificate.
2. The design of these memorial license plates as are issued shall be colored red, white, and blue so as to be similar in hue and intensity to the coloration of the United States Flag and shall carry the legend, “Former POW”
3. One (1) additional plate may be obtained by any eligible person upon payment of the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and payment of one-half (½) of the fee provided for in § 55-4-204(c)(1). Additional license plates may be obtained by any former prisoner of war or eligible surviving spouse upon payment of the regular license fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, plus the payment of a fee equal to the cost of actually producing the plate.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2014, ch. 966, §§ 12, 13; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-235.

Compiler's Notes. The division of motor vehicles was transferred from the department of revenue to the department of safety by Executive Order No. 37 (June 29, 1990).

Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Acts 2014, ch. 966, § 30 provided that any memorial license plates issued free of charge prior to May 19, 2014, to an eligible person under the following sections as they existed prior to such date, shall be free of charge and shall not be subject to the regular registration fee for such plates: Sections 55-4-235 for former prisoners of war, 55-4-233 or 55-4-236, as applicable, for recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor, 55-4-236 for recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Navy Cross, or the Air Force Cross, 55-4-237 for disabled veterans, including those disabled veterans who choose to receive the Purple Heart plate pursuant to Section 55-4-237(d), or 55-4-239 for holders of the Purple Heart plate or surviving spouses of deceased holders of the Purple Heart plate. Such persons shall be entitled to retain the plates for vehicular use upon compliance with all motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles.

Cross-References. Former prisoners of war, memorial registration plates, § 55-4-250.

Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-262. Pearl Harbor survivors.

1. A distinctive license plate is authorized for any person who was a member of the Armed Forces of the United States and who was present at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii on December 7, 1941, if the person is currently a resident of Tennessee, is the owner of a motor vehicle or motor home that is registered for private use, and is otherwise qualified to register and license a motor vehicle pursuant to this title. For the purposes of this section, “private use” vehicle means any motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c) or motor home that is not used for rehire or for any other commercial purpose.
2. The registration plates provided for in this section shall be the same as regular registration plates but shall also bear the legend “PEARL HARBOR SURVIVOR.”
3. The registration plate authorized pursuant to this section shall be issued upon payment of the regular registration fee pursuant to this chapter and the additional fee prescribed by § 55-4-204 and submission of information in accordance with subsection (d).
4. All applications pursuant to this section shall contain such information as the commissioner shall require to prove eligibility for issuance of a license plate pursuant to this section.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2002, ch. 866, § 2; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-238.

Compiler's Notes. The division of motor vehicles was transferred from the department of revenue to the department of safety by Executive Order No. 37 (June 29, 1990).

Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-263. Enemy evadees.

1. 1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is an “enemy evadee” certified as such by the department of veterans services, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and upon paying the regular fee applicable to the vehicle and the fee prescribed by § 55-4-204, shall be issued a registration plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
   2. A surviving spouse of a deceased enemy evadee, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and upon paying the regular fee applicable to the vehicle and the fee prescribed by § 55-4-204, shall be issued a registration plate pursuant to this section, until the surviving spouse remarries.
   3. The application shall be accompanied by orders or a statement of discharge from the appropriate branch of the United States armed forces, certified by the department of veterans services, classifying the applicant as an “enemy evadee,” or in the case of an application by a surviving spouse for continuation of a license plate or plates formerly held by a deceased spouse enemy evadee, a copy of the death certificate.
2. 1. The design of such license plates that are issued pursuant to this section shall be colored red, white and blue so as to be similar in hue and intensity to the coloration of the United States flag and shall bear the legend, “ENEMY EVADEE.”
   2. The registration plates provided for in this section shall be designed in consultation with the commissioner of veterans services.
3. For the purposes of this part, “enemy evadees” means veterans of the United States armed forces who, in time of war, successfully evaded capture behind enemy lines, and many of whom joined local indigenous personnel in resisting enemy forces.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2015, ch. 24, § 7; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-243.

Compiler's Notes. The division of motor vehicles was transferred from the department of revenue to the department of safety by Executive Order No. 37 (June 29, 1990).

Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Acts 2015, ch. 24,  § 7 provided that the Tennessee Code Commission is requested to change references in Tennessee Code Annotated, as volumes are replaced and supplements are issued, from “veterans’ affairs” and “veterans affairs” to “veterans services” wherever the language appears in reference to the name or commissioner of the Tennessee department of veterans services.

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-264. Gold star family.

1. The department, or any other department or agency of the state having jurisdiction, shall provide and issue, free of charge, to each eligible person in the state whose spouse, parent, sibling, or child served and died in the line of duty in the armed forces of the United States or its allies, or died as a result of injuries sustained in such service, upon presentation of proper application, a gold star family memorial registration plate for no more than one (1) motor vehicle or motor home; provided, that the vehicle or motor home is registered or leased for private use in the name of any one (1) recipient. For purposes of this section, “private use” vehicle means any motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c), or motor home that is not used for rehire or for any other commercial purpose.
2. The gold star family plate shall include an identification legend distinctive to gold star families. The legend shall read “Gold Star Family.” The registration number of the plate shall include the letters “GS” and a unique identifying number. The plates shall be designed in consultation with the department of veterans services.
3. Eligibility for gold star family plates shall be determined by the department by consulting appropriate documentation from the department of veterans services.
4. Additional license plates may be obtained by any eligible person upon payment of the regular license fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, plus the payment of a fee equal to the cost of actually producing the plate.
5. Nothing in this section shall be construed as prohibiting the legal display of a gold star mothers memorial license plate issued or renewed prior to July 1, 2008, as evidence of registration, or the renewal of any such plate for such purpose.

Acts 2006, ch. 964, § 28; 2007, ch. 484, § 63; 2008, ch. 1165, § 24; 2015, ch. 24, § 7; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-288.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2008, ch. 1165.

In view of § 55-4-201(d) [now § 55-4-202(d)], former § 55-4-288 (Acts 1998, ch. 1133, § 3; impl. am. Acts 1998, ch. 1063, §§ 1-3) was deleted as obsolete and invalid by the Code Commission in 2000, as the United Daughters of the Confederacy plates named in this section did not qualify for initial issuance.

In view of § 55-4-201(c)(1) [now § 55-4-202(c)(1)], former § 55-4-288 (Acts 2002, ch. 876, § 54) was deleted as obsolete and invalid by the Department of Safety in 2004, as the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere plates named in this section continued to fail to meet the minimum requirements for existence.

Acts 2015, ch. 24,  § 7 provided that the Tennessee Code Commission is requested to change references in Tennessee Code Annotated, as volumes are replaced and supplements are issued, from “veterans’ affairs” and “veterans affairs” to “veterans services” wherever the language appears in reference to the name or commissioner of the Tennessee department of veterans services.

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-265. Blue Star family.

1. The department shall issue to each eligible person in the state whose spouse, parent, sibling or child is serving in the armed forces of the United States at the time of application, a blue star family military license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c), upon the applicant complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and upon paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided in § 55-4-204.
2. The Blue Star family plate shall include an identification legend distinctive to Blue Star families. The legend shall read “Blue Star Family.” The registration number of the plate shall include the letters “BS” and a unique identifying number. The plates shall be designed in consultation with the department of veterans services.
3. Eligibility for Blue Star family plates shall be determined by the department by consulting appropriate documentation from the department of veterans services.
4. Additional license plates may be obtained by any eligible person upon payment of the regular license fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, plus the payment of a fee equal to the cost of actually producing the plate pursuant to § 55-4-204(c).

Acts 2010, ch. 1151, § 11; 2015, ch. 24, § 7; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-330.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 3 of this chapter, concerning cultural plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-301 — 55-4-316 (Acts 1973, ch. 11, §§ 1-7; T.C.A., §§ 59-466 — 59-471; Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 3-7; 1987, ch. 205, § 1; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 13-18; 1987, ch. 434, §§ 3-9; 1991, ch. 507, § 3; 1992, ch. 738, § 1; 1992, ch. 928, § 1; 1993, ch. 381, § 1; 1994, ch. 578, § 1; 1994, ch. 652, § 1; 1994, ch. 792, § 1; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 15-19; 1994, ch. 930, § 4; 1995, ch. 159, §§ 1-6; 1995, ch. 335, § 3; 1996, ch. 983, §§ 1, 2; 1998, ch. 750, § 1; 1998, ch. 1120, § 4).

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2010, ch. 1151.

Acts 2015, ch. 24,  § 7 provided that the Tennessee Code Commission is requested to change references in Tennessee Code Annotated, as volumes are replaced and supplements are issued, from “veterans’ affairs” and “veterans affairs” to “veterans services” wherever the language appears in reference to the name or commissioner of the Tennessee department of veterans services.

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-266. Surviving spouse decal — Fees.

1. On and after May 19, 2014, any registration plate that is retained or renewed by, or initially issued to, a surviving spouse pursuant to  § 55-4-252, § 55-4-253, § 55-4-255, §  55-4-257,  § 55-4-261, § 55-4-263 or § 55-4-273, or § 55-4-274, as applicable, shall be distinguished by a surviving spouse decal. The design of the decal shall be subject to the approval of the commissioner of veterans services. The placement of the decal on the plate shall be subject to the approval of the commissioner of revenue; provided, that the decal shall be placed in a conspicuous manner.
2. The department of revenue shall charge a one-time fee for issuance of the decal in an amount sufficient to defray the administrative costs of implementing this section. The one-time fee for a decal is in addition to any other applicable fees required for issuance of the plate to the surviving spouse pursuant to § 55-4-252, § 55-4-253, § 55-4-255, § 55-4-257, § 55-4-261, or § 55-4-263, § 55-4-273 or § 55-4-274; except, that a decal shall be issued free of charge to a surviving spouse who is issued a former prisoner of war registration plate free of charge under § 55-4-261 or a surviving spouse who, prior to May 19, 2014, was issued a Purple Heart registration plate free of charge under § 55-4-257. Upon application for a decal and payment of the one-time fee, the surviving spouse shall be entitled to issuance of the decal.

Acts 2014, ch. 966, § 27; 2015, ch. 24, § 7; 2018, ch. 691, § 3; 2018, ch. 926, § 4; 2018, ch. 1023, §§ 6, 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-320.

Compiler's Notes. Acts 2015, ch. 24,  § 7 provided that the Tennessee Code Commission is requested to change references in Tennessee Code Annotated, as volumes are replaced and supplements are issued, from “veterans’ affairs” and “veterans affairs” to “veterans services” wherever the language appears in reference to the name or commissioner of the Tennessee department of veterans services.

55-4-267. Tennessee woman veteran.

1. A distinctive license plate is authorized for any woman who is a veteran, if the woman is currently a resident of this state and is otherwise qualified to register and license a motor vehicle pursuant to this title.
2. The registration plates shall bear the legend “Tennessee Woman Veteran.”
3. The registration plate shall be issued upon payment of the regular registration fee pursuant to this chapter and the additional fee prescribed by § 55-4-204(c)(1), and submission of information in accordance with subsection (d).
4. For issuance of a license plate pursuant to this section, all applications shall contain information that the commissioner requires proving the eligibility of the applicant as a woman who received an honorable discharge as a member of the armed services, as defined in § 49-4-928.

Acts 2007, ch. 604, § 21; 2008, ch. 1165, § 29; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-292.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2008, ch. 1165.

In view of § 55-4-201(d) [now § 55-4-202(d)], former § 55-4-292 (Acts 1999, ch. 71, § 2) was deleted as obsolete and invalid by the Code Commission in 2000, as the City of Oak Ridge plates named in this section did not qualify for initial issuance.

In view of § 55-4-201(c)(1) [now § 55-4-202(d)], former § 55-4-254 (Acts 2002, ch. 876, § 60) was deleted as obsolete and invalid by the Department of Safety in 2004, as the retired fire fighters plates named in this section continued to fail to meet the minimum requirements for existence.

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-201, 55-4-202.

55-4-268. Submarine veteran.

1. 1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, who is an honorably discharged veteran of the United States armed forces having served on a submarine in the line of military duty, and whose submarine service has been certified by the department of veterans services, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and upon paying the regular fee applicable to the vehicle and the fee prescribed by § 55-4-204, shall be issued a submarine veteran license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
   2. The application for such plate shall be accompanied by documentation from the appropriate branch of the United States armed forces, certified by the department of veterans services, verifying that the applicant served on a submarine in the line of military duty as a member of the United States armed forces.
2. 1. The design of such license plates that are issued pursuant to this section shall be colored red, white and blue so as to be similar in hue and intensity to the coloration of the United States flag and shall bear the legend, “SUBMARINE VETERAN.”
   2. The license plates provided for in this section shall be designed in consultation with the commissioner of veterans services.

Acts 2010, ch. 1151, § 8; 2015, ch. 24, § 7; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-329.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 3 of this chapter, concerning cultural plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-301 — 55-4-316 (Acts 1973, ch. 11, §§ 1-7; T.C.A., §§ 59-466—59-471; Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 3-7; 1987, ch. 205, § 1; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 13-18; 1987, ch. 434, §§ 3-9; 1991, ch. 507, § 3; 1992, ch. 738, § 1; 1992, ch. 928, § 1; 1993, ch. 381, § 1; 1994, ch. 578, § 1; 1994, ch. 652, § 1; 1994, ch. 792, § 1; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 15-19; 1994, ch. 930, § 4; 1995, ch. 159, §§ 1-6; 1995, ch. 335, § 3; 1996, ch. 983, §§ 1, 2; 1998, ch. 750, § 1; 1998, ch. 1120, § 4).

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2010, ch. 1151.

Acts 2015, ch. 24, § 7 provided that the Tennessee Code Commission is requested to change references in Tennessee Code Annotated, as volumes are replaced and supplements are issued, from “veterans’ affairs” and “veterans affairs” to “veterans services” where ever the language appears in reference to the name or commissioner of the Tennessee department of veterans services.

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-269. Tennessee state guard.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is certified as a member in good standing of the Tennessee state guard, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Tennessee state guard special purpose license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. The application for the plates shall be accompanied by a written statement from the adjutant general or the commanding officer of the Tennessee state guard certifying the applicant to be a member in good standing of the organization.
3. The special purpose license plates shall bear the official seal of the Tennessee state guard and shall bear the language “Tennessee State Guard” in an appropriate design. The plates shall be designed in consultation with the adjutant general and the commanding officer of the Tennessee state guard.
4. 1. Within thirty (30) days of terminating membership in the Tennessee state guard, a motor vehicle owner or lessee to whom a license plate has been issued pursuant to this section shall surrender the plate to the county clerk of the county of the applicant's residence.
   2. The adjutant general or the commanding officer of the Tennessee state guard shall provide biannually to the department the names and addresses of all persons whose membership in the Tennessee state guard has been terminated during such period, together with such other identifying information as the commissioner may require.

Acts 2008, ch. 1165, § 3; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-270.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2008, ch. 1165.

In view of § 55-4-201(d) [now § 55-4-202(d)], former § 55-4-270 (Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1) was deleted as obsolete and invalid by the Code Commission in 2000, as the senior citizens plates named in this section did not qualify for initial issuance.

Acts 2002, ch. 876, § 65 provided that the commissioner of safety is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to effectuate the provisions of that act. All such rules and regulations shall be promulgated in accordance with the provisions of the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5.

Pursuant to § 55-4-201(e) and (h)(1), [now § 55-4-202(e) and (g)(1)], former § 55-4-270 (Acts 2005, ch. 506, § 15) was deemed obsolete and invalid by the department of revenue, as the “East Tennessee Children's Hospital” new specialty earmarked license plate that former § 55-4-270 authorized did not meet the minimum renewal requirements for two successive renewal periods.

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-270. United States coast guard auxiliary.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is certified as a member in good standing of the United States coast guard auxiliary, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a United States coast guard auxiliary special purpose license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. The application for the plates shall be accompanied by a written statement from the commanding officer of the United States coast guard auxiliary certifying the applicant to be a member in good standing of the organization.
3. The special purpose license plates shall bear the official seal of the United States coast guard auxiliary and shall bear the language “U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary” in an appropriate design. The plates shall be designed in consultation with the commanding officer of the United States coast guard auxiliary.
4. 1. Within thirty (30) days of terminating membership in the United States coast guard auxiliary, a motor vehicle owner or lessee to whom a license plate has been issued pursuant to this section shall surrender the plate to the county clerk of the county of the applicant's residence.
   2. The commanding officer of the United States coast guard auxiliary shall provide biannually to the department the names and addresses of all persons whose membership in the United States coast guard auxiliary has been terminated during such period, together with such other identifying information as the commissioner may require.

Acts 2008, ch. 1165, § 6; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-272.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2008, ch. 1165.

Pursuant to § 55-4-201(e) and (h)(1) [now § 55-4-202(e) and (g)(1)], former § 55-4-272 (Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1) was deemed obsolete and invalid by the department of revenue, as the “Olympics” specialty earmarked license plate that former § 55-4-272 authorized did not meet the minimum renewal requirements for two successive renewal periods.

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-271. Motorcycle registration plate for owner or lessee eligible for national guard plate, state guard plate, memorial plate, or military plate.

1. 1. Subject to the requirements of § 55-4-202, the commissioner is authorized, and shall issue, a registration plate to an owner or lessee of a motorcycle who is otherwise eligible for a national guard plate, enumerated in § 55-4-203(c)(3), a Tennessee state guard plate, enumerated in § 55-4-269, a memorial plate, enumerated in § 55-4-203(c)(4), or a military plate, enumerated in § 55-4-203(c)(5); provided, however, that the owner or lessee shall comply with the state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motorcycles; and, except for an owner or lessee eligible for a memorial plate, enumerated in § 55-4-203(c)(4), and as provided in § 55-4-255(d)(1)(A) for an enlisted national guard member, pay the regular fee applicable to motorcycles, and the applicable fee specified in § 55-4-204, prior to the issuance of any such plate.
   2. Nothing in this section shall be construed as authorizing the issuance of an additional plate or plates free of charge to an eligible owner or lessee, whether for a motorcycle, authorized motor vehicle, or a combination of the two, above the total number of free plates authorized by § 55-4-261 for former prisoners of war, by § 55-4-258 pertaining to recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor, by § 55-4-259 for recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, Air Force Cross, Silver Star, Bronze Star (Valor), Air Medal (Valor), or the Distinguished Flying Cross, by § 55-4-256 for disabled veterans, including those disabled veterans who choose to receive the Purple Heart plate, pursuant to § 55-4-256(d), or by § 55-4-255(d)(1)(A) for enlisted national guard members, as applicable.
2. The motorcycle plates authorized by this section shall be substantially the same in design and configuration, allowing for variations due to size restrictions, as the regular motor vehicle registration plates authorized by § 55-4-203(c)(5)(F)(v) for combat veterans, by § 55-4-203(c)(5)(F)(ix) for the Marine Corps League, by § 55-4-255 for national guard members, by § 55-4-269 for state guard members, by § 55-4-260 for Air Medal (Meritorious) and Bronze Star (Meritorious) recipients, by § 55-4-261 for former prisoners of war, by § 55-4-258 pertaining to recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor, by § 55-4-259 for recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, Air Force Cross, Silver Star, Bronze Star (Valor), Air Medal (Valor), or the Distinguished Flying Cross, by § 55-4-256 for disabled veterans, by § 55-4-262 for Pearl Harbor survivors, by § 55-4-257 for holders of the Purple Heart, by § 55-4-254 for members of the United States reserve forces, by § 55-4-263 for enemy evadees, by § 55-4-252 for active and retired members of the United States military and the United States military reserves in good standing, or by § 55-4-253 for honorably discharged veterans, as applicable.
3. The funds produced from the sale and renewal of the motorcycle plates shall be allocated in accordance with § 55-4-216 for the military plates enumerated in § 55-4-203(c)(5)(F), and in accordance with § 55-4-218 for the national guard plates enumerated in § 55-4-203(c)(3) and the memorial plates enumerated in § 55-4-203(c)(4), as applicable.

Acts 2005, ch. 506, § 19; 2010, ch. 1151, § 40; 2011, ch. 491, §§ 26, 27; 2013, ch. 318, § 5; 2014, ch. 966, §§ 19, 20, 26; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-278.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

In view of § 55-4-201(d) [now § 55-4-202(d)], former § 55-4-278 (Acts 1998, ch. 1117, § 3; impl. am. Acts 1998, ch. 1063, §§ 1-3) was deleted as obsolete and invalid by the Code Commission in 2000, as the 50th anniversary of the Knoxville Zoo plates named in this section did not qualify for initial issuance.

In view of § 55-4-201(c)(1)  [now § 55-4-202(c)(1)], former § 55-4-278 (Acts 2002, ch. 876, § 36) was deleted as obsolete and invalid by the Department of Safety in 2004, as the Proud to be an American plates named in this section continued to fail to meet the minimum requirements for existence.

For the Preamble of the act regarding special license plates, please refer to Acts 2010, ch. 1151.

Acts 2013, ch. 318,  § 13, as amended by Acts 2014, ch. 966, § 28, provided that notwithstanding any law to the contrary, any person issued an Air Medal memorial license plate prior to June 21, 2013, shall be entitled to retain the plate for vehicular use upon compliance with all motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles. Any Air Medal military cultural plates initially issued to any recipient of the Air Medal (Meritorious) on or after May 13, 2013, shall be subject to the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and the fee provided for in § 55-4-203(c)(1)  [now § 55-4-204(c)(1)]. Any Air Medal military cultural plates initially issued to any recipient of the Air Medal (Valor) on or after May 13, 2013, and prior to May 19, 2014, shall be memorial plates upon their first renewal on or after May 13, 2013; provided, that the plates shall not be subject to the regular registration fee and shall be free of charge pursuant to § 55-4-203(b)  [now § 55-4-204(b)].

55-4-272. Paratrooper.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, who is an active member or retired or honorably discharged veteran of the United States armed forces, and who, as part of the member or veteran's military duty, has been trained to jump from flying aircraft, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and upon paying the regular fee applicable to the vehicle and the fee prescribed by § 55-4-204(c), shall be issued a paratrooper license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. The application for such plate shall be accompanied by the following:
   1. 1. A valid military identification card or such other document as the commissioner designates as sufficient proof that the applicant is an active member of the United States armed forces; or
      2. 1. A certified copy of the veteran's certificate of release or discharge from active duty, department of defense form 214 (DD 214), honorable discharge certificate, department of defense form 256 (DD 256), or report of separation and record of service, NGB form 22, that indicates an honorable discharge characterization;
         2. A valid DD form 2 (Retired) military identification card; or
         3. A Tennessee driver license that indicates military service in accordance with § 55-50-354; and
   2. Documentation of satisfactory completion of the prescribed proficiency tests while assigned or attached to a military airborne unit or the airborne department of the United States army infantry school, to include:
      1. Military orders awarding the parachutist badge authorized by the United States army to the member or veteran;
      2. The veteran's certificate of release or discharge from active duty, department of defense form 214 (DD 214), or report of separation and record of service, NGB form 22, indicating the awarding of the parachutist badge; or
      3. The airborne course diploma issued to the member or veteran by the United States army infantry school.
3. 1. The design of such license plates that are issued pursuant to this section shall be colored red, white, and blue so as to be similar in hue and intensity to the coloration of the United States flag and shall bear the legend, “U.S. PARATROOPER.”
   2. The license plates provided for in this section shall feature a likeness of the parachutist badge authorized by the United States army.

Acts 2018, ch. 1023, § 25.

55-4-273. Members of 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne).

1. Distinctive license plates are authorized for active, retired, and honorably discharged members of 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) in good standing. The plates are approved for display on motor vehicles that are authorized by § 55-4-210(c) and that are owned and operated, or leased by, a member or a member's spouse or child.
2. The license plates shall bear an emblem distinctive of 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) and the legend “5th Special Forces Group (Airborne)”. The plates shall be designed in consultation with an authorized representative of 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne).
3. The license plate authorized pursuant to this section shall be issued upon:
   1. Payment of the regular registration fee pursuant to this chapter;
   2. Payment of the fee prescribed by § 55-4-204(c); and
   3. Submission of documentation required by subsection (d) or (e).
4. 1. All applications pursuant to this section must be accompanied by military orders or other official documentation detailing an assignment to 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) as proof of eligibility for issuance of a license plate pursuant to this section.
   2. In addition to providing the documentation required under subdivision (d)(1):
      1. An active duty member of 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) must present a valid military identification card or such other document as the commissioner designates as sufficient proof that the applicant is an active duty member of the military; or
      2. A retired or honorably discharged member of 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) must present:
         1. A certified copy of the member's certificate of release or discharge from active duty, department of defense form 214 (DD 214);
         2. A valid DD form 2 (Retired) military identification card; or
         3. A Tennessee driver license that indicates military service in accordance with § 55-50-354.
   3. An application pursuant to this section by a spouse or child of a member must be accompanied by documentation that:
      1. Is required from a member under subdivisions (d)(1) and (2); and
      2. Provides sufficient proof that the applicant is the spouse or child of a member, including:
         1. A valid DD form 1173 military dependent identification card;
         2. A marriage certificate;
         3. A birth certificate or certificate of adoption; or
         4. Other documentation designated by the commissioner.
5. A surviving spouse of a deceased retired or honorably discharged member or of a member who died while on active duty shall be issued a license plate pursuant to this section, until the surviving spouse remarries, upon:
   1. Complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles;
   2. Paying the regular registration fee pursuant to this chapter and the fee prescribed by § 55-4-204(c);
   3. Providing documentation required under subdivision (d)(3); and
   4. Providing a copy of the death certificate of the deceased.
6. An applicant shall be required to submit the documentation required by subsection (d) or (e) only when initially applying for license plates under this section. Subsequent license plates under this section shall be issued to that person without the repeated presentation of documentation.

Acts 2018, ch. 926, § 1.

55-4-274. Rakkasans.

1. Distinctive license plates are authorized for active, retired, and honorably discharged members of the Rakkasans, which is the moniker for the 187th Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) of the United States Army, in good standing. The plates are approved for display on motor vehicles that are authorized by § 55-4-210(c) and that are owned and operated, or leased by, a member or a member's spouse or child.
2. The license plates shall bear an emblem distinctive of the Rakkasans and the language “Rakkasans” with a red torii and the Combat Infantry Badge. The plates shall be designed in consultation with an authorized representative of the 187th Infantry Regiment.
3. The license plate authorized pursuant to this section shall be issued upon:
   1. Payment of the regular registration fee pursuant to this chapter;
   2. Payment of the fee prescribed by § 55-4-204(c); and
   3. Submission of documentation required by subsection (d) or (e).
4. 1. All applications pursuant to this section must be accompanied by military orders or other official documentation detailing an assignment to the 187th Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) of the United States Army as proof of eligibility for issuance of a license plate pursuant to this section.
   2. In addition to providing the documentation required under subdivision (d)(1):
      1. An active duty member of the 187th Infantry Regiment must present a valid military identification card or such other document as the commissioner designates as sufficient proof that the applicant is an active duty member of the military; or
      2. A retired or honorably discharged member of the 187th Infantry Regiment must present:
         1. A certified copy of the member's certificate of release or discharge from active duty, department of defense form 214 (DD 214);
         2. A valid DD form 2 (Retired) military identification card; or
         3. A Tennessee driver license that indicates military service in accordance with § 55-50-354.
   3. An application pursuant to this section by a spouse or child of a member must be accompanied by documentation that:
      1. Is required from a member under subdivisions (d)(1) and (2); and
      2. Provides sufficient proof that the applicant is the spouse or child of a member, including:
         1. A valid DD form 1173 military dependent identification card;
         2. A marriage certificate;
         3. A birth certificate or certificate of adoption; or
         4. Other documentation designated by the commissioner.
5. A surviving spouse of a deceased retired or honorably discharged member or of a member who died while on active duty shall be issued a license plate pursuant to this section, until the surviving spouse remarries, upon:
   1. Complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles;
   2. Paying the regular registration fee pursuant to this chapter and the fee prescribed by § 55-4-204(c);
   3. Providing documentation required under subdivision (d)(3); and
   4. Providing a copy of the death certificate of the deceased.
6. An applicant shall be required to submit the documentation required by subsection (d) or (e) only when initially applying for license plates under this section. Subsequent license plates under this section shall be issued to that person without the repeated presentation of documentation.

Acts 2018, ch. 1023, § 5.

55-4-275. Legion of Merit.

1. A recipient of the Legion of Merit who is a resident of this state and who is an owner or lessee of a motor vehicle, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and upon paying the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204(c)(1), shall be issued a distinctive Legion of Merit motor vehicle registration plate, as appropriate, for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. The Legion of Merit plates provided for in this section shall include an identification legend distinctive to recipients of the Legion of Merit, and the legend shall read “Legion of Merit”.
3. Eligibility for Legion of Merit plates shall be determined by the department by consulting the appropriate information on the applicant's certificate of release or discharge from active duty, department of defense form 214 (DD 214), or in a case of military service predating 1950, in consultation with appropriate information on the equivalent form or on other official documentation, or a written communication from the department of veterans services, the form, documentation, or communication certifying that the application for the plate is submitted by a recipient of the Legion of Merit, as appropriate.

Acts 2019, ch. 253, § 40.

55-4-276. Women Veterans of Color.

1. A distinctive license plate is authorized for any woman of color who is a veteran, if the woman of color is currently a resident of this state and is otherwise qualified to register and license a motor vehicle pursuant to this title. As used in this section, “woman of color” means a female who is African American, Hispanic, Asian American, American Indian, Alaska Native, or Middle Eastern American.
2. The registration plates shall bear the legend “Women Veterans of Color”.
3. The registration plate shall be issued upon payment of the regular registration fee pursuant to this chapter and the additional fee prescribed by § 55-4-204(c)(1), and submission of information in accordance with subsection (d).
4. For issuance of a license plate pursuant to this section, all applications shall contain information that the commissioner requires proving the eligibility of the applicant as a woman of color who received an honorable discharge as a member of the armed services, as defined in § 49-4-928.

Acts 2019, ch. 253, § 18.

55-4-277. Disabled Veteran (service-connected).

1. 1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, who is a disabled veteran of the United States armed forces, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Disabled Veteran military license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
   2. Notwithstanding subdivision (a)(1), a disabled veteran who is entitled to the issuance of the Disabled Veteran military license plate under subdivision (a)(1) shall be issued a Disabled Veteran military license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c), upon payment of one-half (½) of the regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111, and payment of one-half (½) of the fee provided for in § 55-4-204(c)(1), if the disabled veteran receives or is eligible to receive social security disability insurance (SSDI) benefits or supplemental security income (SSI).
2. The design of the Disabled Veteran military license plates that are issued pursuant to this section shall be colored red, white, and blue so as to be similar in hue and intensity to the coloration of the United States flag and shall bear the legend “DISABLED VETERAN.” The design of the license plates shall not include the stylized wheelchair symbol or symbol of access in accordance with § 55-21-104 that is included on any license plate issued pursuant to § 55-4-256 or chapter 21 of this title.
3. The Disabled Veteran military license plate issued pursuant to this section is for honorary purposes and does not qualify or grant the operator of a motor vehicle displaying the license plate any rights or privileges extended by chapter 21 of this title, including parking privileges.
4. For purposes of this section, “disabled veteran” means a veteran who has a service-connected disability, as determined by the United States veterans administration.

Acts 2020, ch. 660, § 45.

Effective Dates. Acts 2020, ch. 660, § 51. July 1, 2020.

55-4-278 — 55-4-289. [Reserved.]

1. Effective July 1, 1998, and for all subsequent fiscal years, the revenues produced from the sale or renewal of specialty earmarked motor vehicle registration plates as defined in § 55-4-201, after deducting the expense the department has incurred in designing, manufacturing and marketing the plates, shall be allocated in each fiscal year as earmarked or specified in the statute authorizing the issuance of each individual specialty earmarked plate.
2. Nothing in this section shall be construed as reallocating the revenues produced from the regular motor vehicle registration fees, or renewals thereof, imposed by part 1 of this chapter. The revenues shall be allocated in accordance with § 55-6-107.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-217.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

55-4-291. “Children First!”

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a “CHILDREN FIRST!” specialty earmarked plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. The commissioner, in consultation with the commission on children and youth, shall determine a distinctive color and design for the “CHILDREN FIRST!” specialty earmarked plate.
3. All revenues produced in each fiscal year from the sale of “CHILDREN FIRST!” specialty earmarked plates, minus the costs the state has incurred in designing and manufacturing the plates, shall be allocated to the department of human services, to be used solely to provide additional funding for child abuse prevention services pursuant to § 71-6-203.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2007, ch. 484, § 59; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-273.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-292. “Helping schools” volunteers.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who wishes to contribute to the welfare and well-being of Tennessee's public schools, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a “Helping Schools” specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. The specialty earmarked plates provided for in this section shall be designed in consultation with the department of education.
3. 1. 1. The proceeds from the fee paid pursuant to § 55-4-204 for the sale of “Helping Schools” specialty earmarked plates and the special decals authorized by this section, minus the expense the state has incurred in designing, marketing and manufacturing the plates or decals, shall be deposited in the general school fund. The owners or lessees of motor vehicles who obtain special plates pursuant to this section may designate that the proceeds from the fees shall be allocated to a particular named school. The county clerk shall remit the proceeds to the local education agency operating the named school, and the local school board shall allocate the proceeds for the benefit of the named school, and shall make the funds available to the school. Any undesignated proceeds from these fees shall be allocated as provided in this section. At the option of the local school board or boards, these funds may be provided to an educational foundation in each system or systems. The foundation shall be duly chartered under the statutes of Tennessee.
      2. The foundation shall allocate the funds solely for supplies, equipment and training for students and certificated employees. Proceeds shall be distributed to the local education agency according to the average daily attendance of schools which serve the counties in which the proceeds were generated.
   2. Notwithstanding this section or any other law to the contrary, in lieu of the specialty earmarked plates provided by this section, owners or lessees of authorized motor vehicles may be issued a special decal for the windshield of the motor vehicles, such decal containing the logo “Helping Schools.” All other provisions of this section concerning the issuance of specialty earmarked license plates, including the payment of the special fee as provided in § 55-4-204, shall apply to the special decal.

Acts 1998, ch. 807, § 1; 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-249.

Compiler's Notes. The division of motor vehicles was transferred from the department of revenue to the department of safety by Executive Order No. 37 (June 29, 1990).

Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Provisions of Acts 1998, ch. 807, concerning the issuance of cultural and new specialty earmarked registration plates, which conflicted with the provisions of Acts 1998, ch. 1063, were not codified. For provisions governing the issuance of such plates and the distribution of fees from such issuances, see §§ 55-4-201, 55-4-202, 55-4-209, 55-4-210 and 55-4-214 — 55-4-220.

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-293. Supporter of Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a supporter of Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. The specialty earmarked plates provided for in this section shall be designed in consultation with the chair of the board of directors of Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital.
3. 1. The funds produced from the sale of the supporters of Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital specialty earmarked license plates, less the expense the state has incurred in designing and manufacturing the plates, shall be deposited in a special fund in the general fund to be used exclusively for research into the causes and treatment of cancer and cancer-related illnesses in children at children's hospitals in Tennessee that have such treatment and research as their principal mission. The commissioner of health shall make grants to these hospitals for such research from moneys available in the special fund.
   2. There is established a general fund reserve to be allocated by the general appropriations act, which shall be known as the children's cancer research endowment fund. Moneys from the fund may be expended to fund activities authorized by this section. Any revenues deposited in this reserve shall remain in the reserve until expended for purposes consistent with this section, and shall not revert to the general fund on any June 30. Any excess revenues on interest earned by the revenues shall not revert on any June 30, but shall remain available for appropriation in subsequent fiscal years. Any appropriation from this reserve shall not revert to the general fund on any June 30, but shall remain available for expenditure in subsequent fiscal years.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-263.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-294. African-American fraternity or sorority members.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is certified as a member or alumni member of the following fraternities or sororities: Delta Sigma Theta, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Zeta Phi Beta, Omega Psi Phi, Alpha Phi Alpha, Phi Beta Sigma, or Kappa Alpha Psi, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued an appropriate African-American fraternity or sorority specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. The application for these license plates shall be accompanied by proof satisfactory to the commissioner, certifying the applicant to be a member or alumni member of the appropriate fraternity or sorority pursuant to subsection (a).
3. The specialty earmarked plates provided for in this section shall be of the colors and contain the logo of the appropriate fraternity or sorority pursuant to subsection (a) and shall be designed in consultation with the executive director of the appropriate fraternity or sorority.
4. The proceeds from the fees paid pursuant to § 55-4-204 for the sale of the African-American fraternity and sorority specialty earmarked plates authorized by this section, minus the expense the state has incurred in designing and manufacturing these plates, shall be deposited in a fund to benefit Tennessee historically black colleges (Fisk University, Knoxville College, Lane College and LeMoyne-Owen College).

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-261.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

In view of § 55-4-201(b)(3)(B) and (c), former provisions concerning the specialty earmarked license plate for Sigma Gamma Rho was deleted as obsolete since this license plate dropped below the minimum order requirements for two years in a row.

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-295. Environmental.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued an environmental specialty earmarked plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. All revenues produced from the sale of environmental plates, minus the costs the state has incurred in designing, marketing and manufacturing the plates, shall be allocated to the division of state parks in the department of environment and conservation to be used solely for the planting and cultivation of trees, shrubs, plants, and flowers and for the maintenance of trees, shrubs, plants and flowers and for making grants to universities in Tennessee for the development of new methods of treating pests that threaten trees and other vegetation at parks.

Acts 1996, ch. 673, § 3; 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2007, ch. 153, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-262.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-296. Friends of Great Smoky Mountains.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Friends of Great Smoky Mountains specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. 1. The funds produced from the sale of the Friends of Great Smoky Mountains specialty earmarked license plates shall be allocated in accordance with § 55-4-290 to the Friends of Great Smoky Mountains Endowment Fund established pursuant to subdivision (b)(2). Subject to subdivision (b)(3), the commissioner of finance and administration shall make disbursements of the funds on a quarterly basis to the Friends of Great Smoky Mountains, Inc. The funds shall be used exclusively for the assistance of the national park service in the care of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
   2. There is established a general fund reserve to be allocated by the general appropriations act, which shall be known as the Friends of Great Smoky Mountains endowment fund. Moneys from the fund may be expended to fund activities authorized by this section. Any revenues deposited in this reserve shall remain in the reserve until expended for purposes consistent with this section, and shall not revert to the general fund on any June 30. Any excess revenues on interest earned by the revenues shall not revert on any June 30, but shall remain available for appropriation in subsequent fiscal years. Any appropriation from this reserve shall not revert to the general fund on any June 30, but shall remain available for expenditure in subsequent fiscal years.
   3. No expenditure shall be made from the fund until the combination of principal and interest reaches one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000). Thereafter, the first fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) in revenues produced from the sale of the plates in each fiscal year shall be added to the principal, and all revenues produced from the sale of the plates in each fiscal year in excess of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) and the earned interest of the fund shall be available for expenditures to aid in carrying out the purposes of the fund; provided, however, at such time as the principal of the fund reaches five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000), all revenues produced thereafter from the sale of the plates in each fiscal year and the earned interest of the fund shall be available for expenditures to aid in carrying out the purposes of the fund.
3. The specialty earmarked plates provided for in this section shall be designed in consultation with a representative of Friends of Great Smoky Mountains, Inc.

Acts 1998, ch. 783, § 1; 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2001, ch. 145, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-271.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Provisions of Acts 1998, ch. 783, concerning the issuance of cultural and new specialty earmarked registration plates, which conflicted with the provisions of Acts 1998, ch. 1063, were not codified. For provisions governing the issuance of such plates and the distribution of fees from such issuances, see §§ 55-4-201, 55-4-202, 55-4-209, 55-4-210 and 55-4-214—55-4-220.

Acts 2001, ch. 145, § 2 provided that the reallocation of revenues provided for in that act shall take effect for fiscal year 2001-2002.

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-297. Nongame and endangered wildlife species.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a nongame and endangered wildlife species or “Watchable Wildlife” specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. The funds produced from the sale of nongame and endangered wildlife species or “Watchable Wildlife” specialty earmarked license plates, less the expense the state has incurred in designing and manufacturing the plates, shall be deposited in the watchable wildlife endowment fund established by § 70-8-110(c), to be used exclusively for the preservation of nongame and endangered wildlife species and the protection and enhancement of such species' habitats.
3. The specialty earmarked plates provided for in this section shall be designed in consultation with the executive director of the Tennessee wildlife resources agency.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-252.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-298. Agriculture.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who wishes to promote agriculture in Tennessee through market development, education, and awareness, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued an agriculture specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. 1. The additional fee imposed by § 55-4-204 for the issuance of agricultural specialty earmarked license plates, minus the expense the state has incurred in designing and manufacturing the plates, shall be earmarked for and appropriated to the department of agriculture for deposit in the agricultural development fund.
   2. The agricultural development fund shall be used exclusively for funding projects and activities that promote market development for agricultural products, as well as promoting information, education, and awareness about agriculture in Tennessee.
   3. The commissioner of agriculture may issue grants from the agricultural development fund for the purposes set forth in this section.
   4. Moneys in the agricultural development fund shall not revert to the general fund at the end of any fiscal year, but shall be carried forward in a reserve fund into the next fiscal year to be reappropriated for the purposes set forth in this section. All interest accruing on investments and deposits in the agricultural development fund not otherwise expended shall be returned to and made a part of the fund.
3. The specialty earmarked plates provided for in this section shall be designed in consultation with the commissioner of agriculture.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-267.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

55-4-299. Ducks Unlimited.

1. An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state and who is certified as a member of Ducks Unlimited, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles, and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Ducks Unlimited specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c).
2. The application for the license plates shall be accompanied by proof satisfactory to the commissioner certifying the applicant to be a member of Ducks Unlimited.
3. The specialty earmarked plates provided for in this section shall contain the logo of Ducks Unlimited, and shall be designed in consultation with the executive director of the Tennessee chapter of Ducks Unlimited.
4. The funds produced from the sale of Ducks Unlimited specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this section shall be allocated to Ducks Unlimited in accordance with § 55-4-290.

Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1; 2005, ch. 506, § 16; 2018, ch. 1023, § 49; T.C.A. § 55-4-265.

Compiler's Notes. Former part 2 of this chapter, concerning special plates, was repealed and reenacted by Acts 1998, ch. 1063, § 1, effective July 1, 1998. The former provisions, excluding those previously repealed by other acts, were §§ 55-4-201 — 55-4-272 and 55-4-275 (Acts 1984, ch. 966, §§ 1, 9; 1985, ch. 56, §§ 1, 2; 1985, ch. 95, § 1; 1985, ch. 402, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 172, §§ 1-5; 1987, ch. 228, §§ 1-11; 1987, ch. 336, §§ 1-3, 5; 1987, ch. 434, § 2; 1988, ch. 575, § 1; 1988, ch. 618, §§ 1, 2; 1988, ch. 687, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 781, §§ 1-3; 1988, ch. 810, §§ 1-4; 1988, ch. 864, §§ 1-4; 1989, ch. 16, §§ 3, 4; 1989, ch. 136, § 1; 1989, ch. 158, § 1; 1989, ch. 501, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 6; 1990, ch. 871, § 1; 1990, ch. 897, § 1; 1990, ch. 925, §§ 1-4; 1991, ch. 209, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 244, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 450, §§ 1-3; 1991, ch. 482, §§ 1-12; 1992, ch. 543, §§ 1, 2; 1992, ch. 737, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 846, §§ 1-3; 1992, ch. 1008, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 66, § 72; 1993, ch. 105, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 106, § 1; 1993, ch. 128, § 1; 1993, ch. 145, § 1; 1993, ch. 236, §§ 1-6; 1993, ch. 314, § 1; 1993, ch. 446, §§ 1-3; 1993, ch. 529, § 6; 1994, ch. 624, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 637, §§ 1-4; 1994, ch. 665, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 879, §§ 1-19; 1994, ch. 930, §§ 1-3; 1994, ch. 959, § 1; 1994, ch. 999, §§ 1-5; 1995, ch. 56, § 1; 1995, ch. 82, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 84, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 122, §§ 1-3; 1995, ch. 132, § 2; 1995, ch. 173, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 195, § 1; 1995, ch. 199, § 1; 1995, ch. 335, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 615, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 658, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 672, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 673, §§ 1-3; 1996, ch. 759, § 1; 1996, ch. 854, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 914, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 963, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 965, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 971, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 994, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1024, §§ 1-4; 1996, ch. 1030, §§ 1-5; 1996, ch. 1047, §§ 1-4).

Cross-References. Issuance of special license plates, §§ 55-4-202, 55-4-203.

Part 3
Special License Plates — Continued

NOTES TO DECISIONS

1. Double Jeopardy.

The crimes of hit and run and traffic offenses are not the same as the crime of joyriding for double jeopardy purposes. Fox v. Dutton, 603 F. Supp. 25, 1984 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 24151 (M.D. Tenn. 1984).

2. Purpose of Statute.

The purpose of the statute was to make a taking larceny even though the taker's intent was not wholly or permanently to deprive the owner of its use, as by taking a joyride with intent to return the automobile to its owner. Globe & Rutgers Fire Ins. Co. v. House, 163 Tenn. 585, 45 S.W.2d 55, 1931 Tenn. LEXIS 152 (1932).

This statute was clearly designed to put taking an automobile for temporary use on the same plan as taking for permanent use. Globe & Rutgers Fire Ins. Co. v. House, 163 Tenn. 585, 45 S.W.2d 55, 1931 Tenn. LEXIS 152 (1932).

This section making it a felony to take an automobile without consent did not repeal § 55-5-105 making it a misdemeanor for a chauffeur to do so. Poston v. Aetna Ins. Co., 29 Tenn. App. 115, 194 S.W.2d 248, 1946 Tenn. App. LEXIS 60 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1946).

3. Elements of Offense.

A conviction may be had under this section upon proof the defendant took the vehicle without the owner's consent with intent to deprive the true owner of its use temporarily, such as taking a joyride or going on a particular mission. Prince v. State, 220 Tenn. 587, 421 S.W.2d 627, 1967 Tenn. LEXIS 441 (1967).

The only difference between larceny of automobile and joyriding is that in joyriding there is no intent to steal, thus joyriding stands as an included offense of larceny. Spencer v. State, 501 S.W.2d 799, 1973 Tenn. LEXIS 536 (Tenn. 1973).

4. Bailee's Acts Not Covered.

A garage owner to whom possession of a car is committed for repairs and who makes temporary use is governed as to criminal liability by another section. Bailey v. State, 150 Tenn. 598, 266 S.W. 122, 1924 Tenn. LEXIS 31 (1924).

5. Personal Use by Employee.

Employee, obtaining consent of employer to use employer's automobile for certain purpose, who, after accomplishing such purpose, used the automobile for his own purpose, was not guilty of violating the statute. Stovall v. New York Indem. Co., 157 Tenn. 301, 8 S.W.2d 473, 1928 Tenn. LEXIS 192, 72 A.L.R. 1368 (1928).

6. Multiple Offenses Charged.

Verdict finding defendant guilty only of receiving and concealing stolen car operated as an acquittal of counts charging larceny of the automobile and of taking and using it without the owner's consent. Harvey v. State, 213 Tenn. 608, 376 S.W.2d 497, 1964 Tenn. LEXIS 428 (1964).

Where defendant was tried on three counts charging respectively, larceny of truck, receiving and concealing such truck, and taking such truck without consent of owner, and was convicted of larceny and where there was evidence relative to the taking of the truck and defendant testified that he took truck without intent to steal or knowledge that it was stolen, it was not possible to say that there was no evidence in record from which a finding of guilty on third count could be made and case would be reversed and remanded where there was no instruction of that count. Prince v. State, 220 Tenn. 587, 421 S.W.2d 627, 1967 Tenn. LEXIS 441 (1967).

7. Liability of Insurer.

In view of this statute, an insurer of an automobile against “theft, robbery or pilferage” is liable where an automobile is driven away and damaged by one, other than a bailee, who took it for temporary use and without intent to deprive owner of it permanently. Globe & Rutgers Fire Ins. Co. v. House, 163 Tenn. 585, 45 S.W.2d 55, 1931 Tenn. LEXIS 152 (1932).

Recovery could be had under policy insuring automobile owner against damage caused by larceny where car had been left for repairs and had been taken by employee of repair shop on personal mission, since such employee was not a chauffeur of the owner, and such taking was therefore a larceny rather than a misdemeanor. Poston v. Aetna Ins. Co., 29 Tenn. App. 115, 194 S.W.2d 248, 1946 Tenn. App. LEXIS 60 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1946).

8. Charge to Jury.

Where in a prosecution for grand larceny for taking automobile without owner's consent an issue was presented by evidence as to whether the intent of the deprivation was a permanent or temporary one, it was duty of court to charge jury as to lesser included offense of joyriding. Spencer v. State, 501 S.W.2d 799, 1973 Tenn. LEXIS 536 (Tenn. 1973).

9. Lesser Included Offense.

“Joyriding,” as defined in this section, is an offense lesser than and included within the offense of larceny of an automobile and it must be charged to the jury when the facts warrant it. State v. Hamm, 611 S.W.2d 826, 1981 Tenn. LEXIS 408 (Tenn. 1981).