The history
A Special Group Recognition (SGR) license plate is a specialty license plate approved by a state’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) for a specific nonprofit, charitable, or mission-driven organization. Motorists who choose the plate pay an additional fee at registration or renewal, and a portion of that fee is directed back to the organization. The plate still functions like any standard license plate — it simply carries a unique design or identifier connected to the approved group.

In January 2024, Indiana residents began purchasing the American Legion Auxiliary Special Group Recognition license plate. The ALA-branded SGR license plate costs $40, and $25 from every plate goes directly to the Auxiliary Emergency Fund (AEF). The Auxiliary Emergency Fund is a national grant assistance program that provides financial assistance to eligible members of the American Legion Auxiliary who have endured a significant financial setback as the result of an act of nature or other personal crisis.

In 2025, American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters awarded $529,168 to 274 ALA members who were recovering from natural disasters or facing financial insecurity. These grants helped members rebuild, regroup, and stabilize during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Revenue streams like the Indiana ALA license plate help ensure this kind of support remains available — not just today, but for years to come. 

The update
In June 2025, the Indiana BMV informed the ALA of recent changes in legislation that increased the plate sales requirement for SGR groups. If we do not secure an additional 300 active plates by the end of 2026, the plate will be discontinued. 

If we do not secure the minimum number of license plates, this opportunity to generate ongoing support for the AEF will be put on hold until the ALA can reapply again in two years. 

How to help
Think about how often you notice license plates while driving or sitting in traffic. Specialty plates stand out, spark curiosity, and create awareness. They give you insight into the driver, like where he/she went to college, what organizations they’re affiliated with, and sometimes if they have a silly nickname. The ALA license plate does all of that while directly supporting a mission that serves our members when they need it most.

If you are an Indiana resident, you can select the American Legion Auxiliary SGR license plate when you purchase or renew your vehicle registration:

• Online at www.in.gov/bmv/registration-plates/home
• In person at your local Indiana BMV office

The plate is available for standard passenger vehicles, and a motorcycle version is offered. Unfortunately, plate parameters for SGR plates do not allow the handicap emblem to be added.

We need 300 people to commit to this plate to keep it active until 2036. 

If you already have the plate, thank you. Your renewal matters. If you do not yet have it, now is the time.
By choosing the American Legion Auxiliary license plate, Indiana members and supporters are protecting a vital safety net for ALA members across the country. Every vehicle needs a license plate. Choose a plate that has a philanthropic component and ensures the ALA can continue showing up for our members when it matters most.