(a) As used in this section, “antique license plate” means a license plate that:
(1) Is approved for issuance under subsection (e) of this section for a historic or special interest vehicle as defined in § 27-15-2201 that is more than forty-five (45) years of age instead of the special license plate issued under § 27-15-2202; and
(2) Was issued by and approved for use in the State of Arkansas in the same year as the model year of the vehicle that is being licensed.
(b) If a person is eligible for a special license plate for a historic or special interest vehicle, the person may choose to use an antique license plate under this section instead of a license plate that is currently issued under § 27-15-2202 by the Office of Motor Vehicle.
(c) An applicant who seeks to use an antique license plate under this section shall remit the following fees:
(1) The fee required by law for the registration and licensing of the motor vehicle; and
(2) A handling and administrative fee in the amount of ten dollars ($10.00).
(d) To renew an antique license plate under this section, the owner of the motor vehicle shall remit the fee required by law for the registration and licensing of the motor vehicle.
(e)
(1) An applicant who seeks to use an antique license plate other than the special license plate issued by the office under § 27-15-2202 shall be required to submit the license plate to the office for inspection to determine whether the antique license plate may be used.
(2) If the office determines that the antique license plate is unacceptable, the applicant shall not be allowed to use the antique license plate.
(3) The reasons for which the office may prohibit the use of an antique license plate include, but shall not be limited to:
(A) The antique license plate does not meet reasonable reflective and safety standards;
(B) The number of the antique license plate is the same as the number issued to a license plate that is currently in circulation; and
(C) The administrative costs associated with recording and maintaining the antique license plate are prohibitive.
(4) The office may promulgate rules to administer the provisions of this section.
(f) Collectors who, on or before July 24, 2019, have vehicles licensed as historic or special interest vehicles under current statutes shall not be required to register these vehicles or obtain new license plates for these vehicles.
(g) Each collector applying for a license plate under this subchapter shall:
(1) Own and have registered one (1) or more motor vehicles that he or she uses for regular transportation; and
(2) Provide the office proof of ownership and registration as required under subdivision (g)(1) of this section.