License Plate Program
On average, 80% of arts grants awarded by the Tennessee Arts Commission are funded by sales and personalization of specialty license plates. This year alone, the Commission anticipates awarding approximately 1,000 grants in both rural and urban communities. By purchasing and/or personalizing a specialty license plate, you support arts organizations, schools, and communities providing accessible arts programs for children, youth, and adults in all 95 counties!
In 1998, the Tennessee General Assembly enacted legislation which provided that the income from the sales of all Specialty License Plates created after that point would be divided between the Arts Commission, the Highway Fund, and the Sponsoring Non-Profit Organization featured on the plate. This created a special category of license plates known in the law as the “New Specialty Plates.” The 1998 law also included a formula for how revenue from the sale of a “New Specialty Plate” should be distributed. This is where the 50/40/10 breakdown comes into play. If the tag purchased is an Arts Plate, the Tennessee Arts Commission receives 90% of the income from that plate. With the average Specialty Plate costing $35, that money adds up!
CLICK HERE for more information on purchasing a specialty plate to show your support for the arts in Tennessee!
