The True Post (Web News)Alberta is preparing to roll out a new design for its provincial license plates and has launched a public voting campaign to let residents choose the final look.
Premier Danielle Smith and Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction Minister Dale Nally officially announced the initiative Wednesday afternoon in Edmonton.
From October 15 to November 5, Albertans can participate in online voting to select their favorite design among eight proposed options. According to the provincial government, each design reflects Alberta’s natural beauty and industrial heritage featuring elements such as the Three Sisters mountains, agriculture, and the energy sector.
The new plate, expected to debut by late 2026, will feature the slogan “Strong and Free,” derived from Alberta’s Latin motto and the Canadian national anthem, symbolizing the province’s economic strength and autonomy within Canada.
Interestingly, the same phrase is also used by Smith’s United Conservative Party as a political slogan. Minister Nally noted that even the King referenced “Strong and Free” during his coronation speech in Ottawa, emphasizing that it belongs to all Albertans, not any one political group.
Voting process:
In the first phase, all eight designs will be open for public voting.
In the second phase, the top four will advance.
The final round will determine the winning design, which will be announced during the fall session of the provincial legislature.
Albertans can replace their old plates with the new design for a $28 fee, or get it free when renewing vehicle registration.
The current plate — introduced in 1984 — will remain valid as long as it’s in good condition. The new plates will include reflective technology to improve visibility for law enforcement and automated systems, while also meeting international security standards to prevent counterfeiting.
