Albertans now have the opportunity to vote for one of eight unique license plate designs as the provincial government announced the upcoming launch of new plates in the following year. A tournament-style voting bracket and specifics of the designs were disclosed during a news briefing held on Wednesday afternoon.
All the new designs will feature the motto “Strong and Free,” which is Alberta’s official slogan. Premier Danielle Smith mentioned that including the motto on the license plate is a tribute to Canada’s national anthem and Alberta’s standing as a robust and independent province within Canada.
Since 1980, Alberta’s coat of arms has displayed the Latin phrase “fortis et liber,” which translates to “strong and free” in English. Residents can participate in the voting process by visiting a page on the province’s website and selecting their preferred design until November 5.
The design options showcase various landscapes, some incorporating pumpjacks and cowboys. Smith emphasized that these images signify Alberta’s natural beauty and shared identity, encapsulating what it means to be Albertan.
During the news conference, both Smith and Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally addressed queries regarding the potential political motivation behind including the motto, clarifying that it is the province’s official motto. Nally highlighted that the phrase is also present in the national anthem, emphasizing its significance beyond political affiliations.
Regarding the financial aspect, Nally confirmed that his ministry did not receive extra funds for redesigning the license plates, with the expenses being covered within the existing budget. The anticipated implementation costs for the new plates range from $25,000 to $50,000.
The current license plate design in Alberta, featuring “Wild Rose Country,” has been in use for many years, showcasing the provincial flower. Despite the new designs, all options retain the wild rose element.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the province mentioned that residents interested in switching to the new design can voluntarily pay a $28 fee. Alternatively, they can obtain the new plate during their vehicle registration renewal without incurring extra charges. Additionally, motorists can continue using their current license plate if it remains in good condition once the new plates are introduced.