The Illinois 4-H Foundation came one step closer to creating a 4-H specialty license plate when Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed legislation officially endorsing the plate on August 20.
The process of creating the 4-H license plate began two years ago. Before legislation could be drafted to allow the license plate, at least 800 people had to show support for it. Now, according to the state’s criteria, the Secretary of State must receive 1,500 requests for the 4-H specialty plate before production can begin.
Specialty license plates are authorized by Illinois law with the primary goal of raising funds for an organization.
“This license plate will not only give more visibility to the 4-H organization and 4-H Clover, but also serve as an ongoing fundraiser for Illinois 4-H youth programs,” said Angie Barnard, director of the Illinois 4-H Foundation.
4-H is an out-of-school youth education program available in every Illinois county through University of Illinois Extension offices. Members choose projects that focus on citizenship, leadership, art, science, engineering and technology based on their interests.
This non-refundable fee will directly support Illinois 4-H youth programs statewide.
After 1,500 requests have been received, supporters will be notified when the plate becomes available. Those who request the license plate will not be obligated to purchase the plate upon its release.

Jon Cherry is a Director of leading personalised number plate dealer Regplates.com. Jon has over 25 years industry experience handling some of the most expensive plates ever sold with many high profile and celebrity clients. Active since 1991 in the number plate industry, Jon is currently Chairman of the Cherished Numbers Guild, a trade body representing number plate dealers in the UK. Jon has written many articles on the industry and insight into the future of numberplates and the market as a whole.