Custom license plates offer drivers a chance to express their uniqueness. For a fee, individuals can personalize their plates with custom messages or combinations of letters and numbers, allowing them to showcase their creativity. However, state governments and motor vehicle departments may reject vanity plate applications if they contain contentious language.

Wendy Auger recently faced this situation when her vanity plate, “PB4WEGO,” was unexpectedly rejected after fifteen years of use. Auger, a bartender from New Hampshire, was surprised by the DMV’s decision to deem the phrase offensive.

Auger believes that the state’s action infringes upon her freedom of speech and argues that “pe* before we go” is not inappropriate but rather practical advice commonly given to children.

She had carefully chosen the plate after years of searching and eagerly awaited its availability when New Hampshire increased its vanity plate character limit. However, the state maintains that its rules, established after a court order from the NH Supreme Court, are clear and must be followed.

Should Auger be obligated to replace her license plate, which she has proudly displayed for fifteen years?