DTOP launches commemorative license plates for the US 250th anniversary: available at all 14 CESCOs

The Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTOP) and the Highway and Transportation Authority (ACT) put commemorative license plates on sale this week celebrating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States ¹. The special plates are now available at all 14 Driver Service Centers (CESCO) across the island and can be requested through June 30, 2027 ².

According to the agency, the plates allow Puerto Ricans to "actively participate in this historic celebration and express, through a visible and permanent symbol, their pride, shared history, their bond with the United States of America, and their aspirations for full equality within the Nation" ².

Legislative background

The measure authorizing the creation of these plates was Senate Joint Resolution 189 (RC 189), introduced by Governor Jenniffer Gonzalez ². The Senate approved it on May 28, 2026, through an expedited process with no public hearings, with 32 votes in favor — the entire New Progressive Party (PNP) delegation — and 15 against ¹.

The original Senate version contained several provisions that sparked debate. Among them, it required all government agencies, public corporations, and municipalities to purchase the commemorative plates for all vehicles acquired during fiscal year 2026-2027. It also mandated that the revenue collected be used exclusively to fund July 4th Independence Day activities ¹.

House modifications

When the measure reached the House of Representatives in June, lawmakers approved it but with significant modifications ¹. The House eliminated:

• The mandatory purchase requirement for agencies and municipalities
• The section requiring funds be earmarked exclusively for July 4th events
• The authorization for commemorative driver's licenses
• The provision regarding the merchandise store and donation solicitation

With these changes, revenue generated from plate sales will go to the government's General Fund ¹.

The political debate

PNP House spokesperson Jose "Pichy" Torres Zamora defended the initiative, arguing that "we're celebrating the creation of the democracy that rules the world today" ¹.

The vote divided the chamber along party lines. All 32 votes in favor came exclusively from the PNP, while minority parties — including the PPD, MVC, and PIP — voted against ¹.

What this means for you

If you have a vehicle registered in Puerto Rico, you now have the option to swap your regular plates for the commemorative 250th anniversary edition. It's not mandatory — the House eliminated any compulsory purchase requirement. It's a voluntary option available for a full year.

How to do it / Checklist

1. Visit any of the 14 CESCOs in Puerto Rico.
2. Request the commemorative plate for the 250th US anniversary.
3. Present your valid driver's license and vehicle documentation.
4. Complete the process at the window — same as any other plate change.
5. You have until June 30, 2027 to request one.
6. Check the DTOP Facebook page or call the nearest CESCO before going.

What comes next

The plates will be available for the next 11 months. The commemoration of the 250th anniversary — known as the Semiquincentennial — includes events at the federal level throughout the fiscal year.

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Sources ¹ El Nuevo Dia, July 23, 2026 ² Primera Hora, July 23, 2026