Calgary 
Alberta will introduce its first new licence plate design in more than 4 decades, following a provincewide vote that selected an image of Moraine Lake in Banff National Park.
The updated plate, which includes Alberta’s “Strong and Free” motto, is scheduled to become available in mid-2026.
The provincial government held three rounds of public voting, drawing more than 240,000 votes. Moraine Lake emerged as the preferred design, replacing the plate first introduced in 1984. Premier Danielle Smith said the choice reflects Alberta’s identity and the natural landscape that is recognized internationally.
Credit: Alberta.ca
The new plate will feature a panoramic view of Moraine Lake and the Rocky Mountains. According to Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally, the design highlights scenery widely associated with the province and was selected directly by residents via an online poll.
The “Strong and Free” motto will appear on the plate as a reference to Alberta’s provincial character and its link to the wording in Canada’s national anthem. Along with the updated design, the plate will incorporate reflective technology intended to improve readability in low-light conditions and enhance detection by law enforcement and automated systems. This technology aligns with international standards for visibility and resistance to counterfeiting.
Motorists who want to switch to the new plate before their regular renewal date may do so voluntarily for a $28 fee. Drivers may also wait until their next vehicle registration renewal to obtain the updated plate at no additional cost. Existing plates can continue to be used as long as they remain in good condition.
Alberta previously transitioned from painted plates to reflective versions of the 1984 design in 2021. The upcoming release marks the first major visual redesign in over 40 years.
