Vanity license plates have a way of drawing attention, whether they make us laugh, roll our eyes, or cringe a little. These personalized tags break away from the usual random jumble of characters to send a message—sometimes bold, sometimes playful. For some, it’s a chance to stand out and invite admiration, or at least a second glance.

Many vanity plates lean heavily into self-promotion, flaunting wealth, status, or a flashy persona. Seeing something like “RCHB0SS” or “IMFAB” on a luxury car can feel less like a clever joke and more like a cry for attention. It’s the vehicular version of wearing designer sunglasses indoors—loud, unnecessary, and kind of ridiculous.

But not all personalized plates are about ego. Plenty of them show real creativity and humor, with messages like “TIREDAF” on a mom van or “NOTACOP” on a black SUV that makes everyone look twice. These are the ones that make driving more fun and lighten the mood during commutes or long road trips.

Some people use vanity plates for practical reasons, too. Small business owners might brand their cars with names like “DOGWALKR” or “FIXURPC” to promote their work. Others share messages that are meaningful and personal, like “GRAD2024” or “BEATCANC,” turning their car into a small, mobile celebration.

In the end, vanity plates straddle the line between expression and excess. They can be funny, touching, or downright obnoxious, but they always catch the eye. And in the middle of dull traffic or a long stretch of road, even a goofy license plate can be a welcome reminder that everyone has a story—and sometimes, they’re willing to spell it out in seven characters or less.