After reading all of the mis-information on the internet in regards to Florida (YOM) Year Of Manufacture License Plate requirements, I began researching Florida's License Plate State Statues on Y.O.M. plates in an attempt to set the record straight and put this confusion to rest. I could not find any specific information that answered most likely the number one question regarding Y.O.M. plate registration, "Can Y.O.M. plates be repainted/restored?"

 Having no success searching the State Statues I went to plan B in my attempt to find an answer. I called the Office of Titles and Registration in Tallahassee and asked to speak to the department that handles the approvals and rejections of Y.O.M. license plates.  My call was received on the other end by a young pleasant voice that was very receptive to my call.  I explained that there were a lot of conflicting statements in regards to submittals of restored plates for YOM registrations and asked for a clarification. I went on to explain that my vehicle (1936 Ford) was 73 years old and that 1936 Florida license plates were red with white letters. We both agreed that red was quite a fading color in the Florida sun and finding an original presentable plate could be quite challenging. (TIP: I'm not allowed to show web addresses but I can suggest that you google the phrase "Florida Personalized License Plate Availability" if your interested in a free source for checking to see if your Florida license plate numbers are available and not already taken.) The first listing you'll see will put a smile on your face...I promise. This site is used primarily by those wanting a personalized plate but is ideal for checking out a prospective Y.O.M. plate as well.. Aren't you glad your reading this guide? This is a great site to keep close to your vest. I stumbled upon this site while researching Florida license plates. The cat is now out of the bag.   

back to the phone call....Without hesitation the young lady explained in detail the guidelines pertaining to restored, repainted plates. Here is what she said. "First of all, the plate must be an official plate originally provided and issued by the State of Florida (NEW REPRODUCTION PLATES ARE REJECTED). The plate must be straight and refurbished in the correct background color and correct color lettering as originally issued for the particular plate year being submitted. The plate's letters, numbers, or letter number combination must be available for registration and not be presently in use." She put a lot of emphasis on the use of correct colors.  

So, upon receiving the good news, I began an intensive search for a restorable license plate. I received the name of a fellow Floridian over on the east coast that buys and sells exclusively older Florida license plates. Not only did he have a 1936 restored plate...he had four of them so I had a choice! JACKPOT! He advised that I go with the one with the "T" prefix and explained. The "T" prefix license plates were issued to passenger vehicles in my car's weight range. He went on to explain that the number on the plate was a good number for registering. That made the decision easy. So, a price was quoted, accepted. I Paypaled the money and became the proud owner of plate T1-318.

With my plate in hand, the necessary letter stating my request along with supporting documents were prepared and sent along with my plate to Tallahassee for authentication and registration. I would strongly suggest sending your plate via U.S. Priority Mail, insured and require a signature. This way you'll sleep better at night. (Tip 2: Tape a piece of paper to the back of your plate with all your vital information just in case it becomes separated from your paperwork.)

I received my plate back from Tallahassee on September 12, 2009, fourteen days (eleven business days) after it had been sent off and believe me.....those fourteen days felt like an eternity. ( I began checking that number availability site (Tip 1) for my Y.O.M. plate entry on the 7th day and on the 9th day I was very happy to see the "not available" pop up. That is the only time you'll be happy to see "not available" I can assure . 

In conclusion, the answer is YES, REPAINTED/RESTORED PLATES ARE ACCEPTABLE if the correct guidelines are followed.  

I hope this information has been helpful.  

Best Regards and Good Luck,

baytop1