TOPEKA, KS – The State of Kansas has announced a significant policy change impacting the registration of antique trucks used for farming or commercial purposes, effective immediately. Trucks with a gross weight exceeding 12,000 pounds that are utilized for agricultural or business operations will no longer be permitted to operate with antique license plates.
The Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) has indicated that enforcement of the new policy will begin with a grace period, during which officers will issue warnings and inform drivers of the change. However, KHP confirmed that they will eventually commence issuing citations for non-compliance.
This policy shift, outlined in a memo from the Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR), is based on existing state statutes K.S.A. 8-166, 8-167, and 8-143, as well as federal regulation 49 CFR 390.5. While K.S.A. 8-166 and 8-167 allow vehicles 35 years of age or older to qualify for an antique designation and registration, K.S.A. 8-143 explicitly states that vehicles intended for farming, commercial purposes, or any form of hauling must be registered under the appropriate farming or commercial registration.
Truck owners affected by this change will need to transition to a farm or commercial registration. To do so, individuals must present their vehicle’s title and proof of insurance. The new registration will be subject to annual renewal, consistent with other farm and commercial vehicles.
A $10 title fee will be assessed, in addition to a registration fee based on the truck’s gross weight. The new annual registration fees are as follows:
| Gross Weight | Yearly Fee |
| 16,000 lbs | $69.25 |
| 20,000 lbs | $154.25 |
| 24,000 lbs | $164.25 |
| 36,000 lbs | $184.25 |
| 54,000 lbs | $187.25 |
| 60,000 lbs | $337.25 |
| 66,000 lbs | $517.25 |
| 85,500 lbs | $757.25 |
It is important to note that pickup trucks with a gross weight of 12,000 pounds or less are not subject to this new policy and can continue to use antique plates if they meet the age requirements.
Vehicle owners with affected trucks are encouraged to visit their local county treasurer’s office to update their registrations and avoid future penalties.
