Cougar Plates Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be an alumnus/ae of WSU to purchase a Cougar plate?
Not at all. In addition to alumni, we welcome friends, parents, students, WSU employees, and fans. If you have a registered vehicle in the state of Washington, you can show your Cougar Pride with your very own Cougar plates.

How much do the plates cost?
The original cost to purchase a Cougar plate is $41 plus any applicable licensing fees. Annual renewal is $30 in addition to any applicable licensing fees.

How much of the special plate registration fee is directed to Washington State University?
$28 of your $30 special plate fee goes directly to the WSU License Plate Scholarship fund to provide scholarships for deserving students at Washington State University. Each year, approximately $320,000 is generated through the program for scholarships at Washington State University.

When will I receive my Cougar plates?
The plates are mailed to the registered owner within two business days of the purchase.

What will my new plate number be?
Your new registration will show your new license plate number, which is assigned by the Department of Licensing computer system. Plates are assigned in numerical order when a transaction is finalized.

Can I keep my plate when I sell my car?
Yes! These plates may be transferred from vehicle to vehicle, provided the registered owner remains the same.

Do I have to wait until my tab renewal to purchase a Cougar plate?
You can purchase a Cougar plate at any point during your registration period. Visit your local Vehicle Licensing office to get a Cougar plate today.

Can I keep the number on my old plate when I buy Cougar plates?
You cannot keep your old license plate number because the Cougar plates have a new number series.

$28 of your annual renewal fee directly supports scholarships for deserving students at Washington State University.

WSU Foundation, PO Box 641925, Washington State University, Pullman WA 99164-1925 | (509) 335-6686 | foundation@wsu.edu