Pre-sale deadline approaching for Florida to authorize “Stands with Israel” license plates

Four years ago, there was excitement as Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill authorizing the issuance of a Florida Stands With Israel license plate. But time is running out to actually see any of those plates hit the road.

For a new plate design to go into production, there must be 3,000 pre-sale vouchers sold within a certain time frame. The pre-sale period for the Israel plates has been extended to Oct. 14, but as of July 26, only 430 had been sold.

Florida Stands With Israel has a campaign to secure enough vouchers for the plates to be issued. After that, at least 3,000 tags must be renewed or purchased each year for the plate to continue to be produced. Plates that fall under 3,000 are placed in probationary status for a year, and then withdrawn from sale unless the legislature renews it.

Individuals purchasing a voucher must have a Florida driver license or ID card, and a vehicle for the plate. Someone out of state can purchase a voucher as a gift for someone who has a Florida vehicle registration. If the 3,000 threshold is not met, vouchers will be refunded. Company vehicles and motorhomes are eligible for the specialty plate.

When he signed the legislation, DeSantis said “I am committed to deepening the relationship between Florida and the state of Israel. This specialty license plate serves as a visible symbol of our steadfast support and friendship.”

After the legislation passed, there was a contest to design the plate. Daniel Ackerman’s design features Florida’s state flower, the orange blossom, intertwined with the Star of David, symbolizing the strong bond between Florida and Israel.

A significant portion of the revenue generated from plate sales will benefit Hatzalah South Florida EMS, a nonprofit organization that deploys volunteer EMTs and paramedics during medical emergencies.

Michael Ackerman, spokesperson and marketing director for the campaign, urged widespread participation. “We envision every Floridian who values the Florida-Israel relationship to not only purchase these specialty plates for their vehicles, but also to encourage their friends and family to do the same.”

Information on purchasing vouchers is available here.

South Carolina also issues a “South Carolina Stands With Israel” plate.