Gem hunters, Freemasons get specialty plates in Idaho

BOISE – Gem hunters and members of a fraternal organization with roots dating to 16th-century Scotland can now proclaim their interests on Idaho license plates.

That’s because a pair of new specialty plates – one to promote lapidary education, the other to boost charitable activities of Freemasons – went on sale Friday.

They were approved by the Idaho Legislature, to join about 40 other specialty-plate options that allow Idaho drivers to financially support nonprofit organizations.

Other groups that benefit include snowmobile aficionados, appaloosa horse lovers and firefighters.

A $35 fee is charged when the new plate is first purchased; renewals will have a $25 fee. These fees are in addition to all other applicable annual registration costs.

All but $13 from the cost of plates is deposited into the groups’ accounts.