Editor's Viewpoint: Novelty Tennessee License Plates Are Often Upside Down

Travel across any Tennessee highway today, and you are likely to spot a curious sight: the iconic three-star logo of the novelty front license plates. Understand, these are not state-issued plates, but novelty plates sold by non-government companies that are often unintentionally displayed upside down. What was intended as a symbol of volunteer pride is often a point of public confusion. It is supposed to represent a “V” as in the word “Volunteer.” It has a “V” with a slight clockwise rotation.

In comparison, in maritime and national tradition, flying the U.S. flag upside down is a recognized signal of dire distress. An inverted Tennessee license plate may not constitute an emergency, but it does represent a lack of knowledge to properly display the state’s image.

The three stars on the Tennessee flag symbolize more than just geography - west, middle and east Tennessee; they are a profound emblem of the state’s unity. Its design is symbolic: the pure white stars representing the three grand divisions of the state bound together by an endless circle of blue. This design signifies an “indissoluble trinity,” emphasizing the strength of the state when its regions are united.

The Three-Star design is evident on state-issued registration plates and drivers’ licenses.

To rectify the incorrect display, the manufacturers should implement a simple, low-cost solution: a temporary “This Side Up” sticker placed on the face of each new plate. This small addition would guide motorists during installation and ensure the Tennessee 3-star logo is displayed with the dignity it deserves.

Now, I hope that you can never ‘unsee’ an incorrectly displayed state emblem.