NWT bear gets a facelift

May 7, 2010 — The Northwest Territories’ traditional “polar bear” plate is going graphic, and reflective.

This new design will take effect on July 1, 2010 and all vehicles will be required to have new plates by December 31, 2011. Motorists will pay a $10 surcharge for the new plates upon renewal.

Those who want to keep their existing plate numbers (including personalized) will pay an additional $25. Also new for NWT, the new plates will be aluminum instead of steel.

This is the first design change for NWT plates since 1986, and the unique die-cut polar bear shape has been in use since 1970. Thanks to Joey Hurd for the tip!