West Virginia has a long history of local legends, and now drivers can put some of them on their cars. On November 2, 2026, the state DMV began selling a new specialty plate that features the creatures of state folklore.
Who’s on the Plate
The design shows nine cryptids connected to West Virginia’s folklore. Among them:
- Mothman, the red-eyed winged figure most closely tied to Point Pleasant
- Braxie, the Flatwoods Monster, from the famous 1952 sighting in Braxton County
- Bigfoot
West Virginia artist Jesse Corlis designed the plate.
Why West Virginia Did This
Cryptid tourism is a real business in the state. Point Pleasant hosts the yearly Mothman Festival and has a Mothman Museum. Braxton County uses the Flatwoods Monster in its tourism branding. A plate built around these figures connects that local pride with something people see every day on the road.
DMV Commissioner Everett Frazier promoted the launch as a fun way for residents to show their love for the state’s folklore.
How to Get One
Specialty plates are normally ordered through the West Virginia DMV, either online or at a regional office. They usually cost more than a standard plate, both up front and at renewal.
Before you order, check dmv.wv.gov for:
- The current fee for the cryptid plate
- Whether personalized lettering is available
- How long processing and delivery take
A Growing Trend
States have been leaning into eye-catching specialty plates because they are popular and some of them raise money for state programs. Drivers like having a way to show personality, and the plates add revenue for the state without raising taxes.