OKLAHOMA CITY – House Bill 3147, authored by Rep. Derrick Hildebrant, R-Catoosa, and Sen. Ally Seifried, R-Claremore, has become law, authorizing the creation of the Route 66 Centennial License Plate in consultation with the Oklahoma Route 66 Centennial Commission.
The measure became law without the Governor’s signature after passing unanimously in both the House and Senate.
The new plate commemorates the 100th anniversary of U.S. Highway 66, established Nov. 11, 1926. In 2026, Route 66, often called the Mother Road, is being celebrated nationwide throughout the year.
“Oklahoma has the longest drivable stretch of Route 66, and it is filled with the diners, motels, museums and small businesses that tell the story of our state and our country,” Hildebrant said. “I am thrilled that the license plate is now in statute and thank my colleagues for understanding the importance of the Mother Road in our state. Catoosa is home to one of the most recognizable stops along the route, the Blue Whale, and celebrating 100 years is meaningful for all of us.”
Senate author, Seifried, says the new license plate is an exciting chance for Oklahomans to have a piece of Route 66.
“Route 66 is one of Oklahoma’s greatest economic and cultural assets, bringing visitors from around the world and supporting jobs in cities and towns along the route,” said Sen. Ally Seifried, R-Claremore. “This new license plate gives Oklahomans the chance to celebrate the centennial by taking a piece of the Mother Road with them wherever they go. I’m proud to represent so many communities that are part of Route 66’s enduring legacy.”
The law authorizes Service Oklahoma to work with the Oklahoma Route 66 Centennial Commission on the design for the plate. The agreement allows for up to $20 from each plate issued to be directed to the Oklahoma Route 66 Association. Rhys Martin, president of the Oklahoma Route 66 Association, said proceeds from plate sales will support promotion and preservation efforts along the historic highway.
“This will help us continue telling Oklahoma’s story to people from around the world as we begin the road’s next 100 years,” Martin said. “Route 66 in Oklahoma goes through more than 40 communities and covers over 400 miles. It’s known as the Main Street of America, and it is still Main Street in many of these towns.”
Before the plate can be produced, at least 100 Oklahomans must sign up and pre-order it. Organizers say that effort is already underway. Route 66 Day was held at the Capitol on April 21, where historic sites and communities along Route 66 gathered to mark the highway’s 100th anniversary. The Oklahoma Route 66 Association was there collecting signatures and email addresses of those who would be interested in pre-ordering the plate.
Service Oklahoma is currently working on a final design of the plate and a link where Oklahomans can sign up and pre-order it online.
