By Chief Steven J. Wojnar

Dudley Police 

Department

I was recently asked a question about the lettering of Massachusetts vehicle license plates.  Vanity and specialty plates (Whales, Patriots, Cape and Islands, etc.), are issued by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (Mass DOT).  These can often be confusing when the number “0” or the letter “O” appear on these plates.  I was asked if these numbers or letters are still in use here in Massachusetts.

As is often the case, vanity or specialty plates can contain a wide combination of numbers and letters.  All vanity plates are approved for use and issued by the Mass DOT – Registry of Motor Vehicles.  Massachusetts does allow for both the number “0” as well as the letter “O” to be used on number plates.  To address some of the potential confusion, the style of these numbers and letters is altered slightly to provide a different appearance.  Photo examples are available online which show the letter “O” appearing on a license plate, in a more block style fashion.  This means the top, bottom, and both sides are straight with 90 degree, angled corners.  Its shape resembles that of a rectangle.  The number “0” remains oval in appearance with the top and bottom being rounded.  The differences are not immediately apparent when looking at them quickly, however; if you pay particular attention to this factor in the future, you will see a difference. 

If you have any plates with these characters contained in them, there may be some confusion if outside people (police departments, parking clerks, etc.) or license plate readers check the vehicle status.  This may require some further documentation to insure you are not the subject of any fines or charges.  All these plates are official and are approved for use by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.  They must be displayed on both the front and rear of the vehicle.  If you are interested, check online for example photos of the letter “O” under the Mass DOT issued number plates. 

For those still seeking vaccination or COVID related information, it can be found at www.dudleyma.gov or by calling The Board of Health 508-949-8036.  During these challenging times, we, at the Dudley Police Department, greatly appreciate the support we receive from our community.  

Thanks again for your questions and comments.  Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St. Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at [email protected].  Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen.