California and Nevada residents can get a free season pass to one of thirteen Lake Tahoe area ski resorts by purchasing a custom license plate that raises funds for conservation efforts.
The annual Plates for Powder program is a limited-time event that encourages vehicle owners to purchase a special Tahoe-themed license plate and receive a 2025-26 winter ski pass and lift ticket at a participating resort while supplies last.
Resorts that participate in the Plates for Powder program include:
- Boreal Mountain Resort
- Diamond Peak
- Heavenly Mountain Resort
- Homewood Mountain Resort
- Kirkwood Mountain Resort
- Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe
- Northstar California
- Palisades Tahoe
- Royal Gorge
- Sugar Bowl Resort
- Tahoe XC
- Tahoe City Winter Sports Park
- Tahoe Donner Cross Country
Funds raised from the program directly benefit the Lake Tahoe area through watershed restoration projects, and maintenance on local hiking and biking trails.
Recent improvement projects that received funding through the program include a planned fish passage structure for local cutthroat trout, a new trail connection along the popular Tunnel Creek trail, and the demolition of a closed motel in South Lake Tahoe to make way for a wetland restoration project, officials said.
Funds are delivered by the California Tahoe Conservancy and Nevada Division of State Lands.
“Funding from the Lake Tahoe license plate directly benefits our agency’s work to restore and enhance the Basin’s extraordinary natural and recreational resources,” said Jason Vasques, California Tahoe Conservancy executive director.
The nonprofit Tahoe Fund has organized the project on behalf of the public since 2011.
“The Plates for Powder program is an incredible way for California and Nevada drivers to show their love for Tahoe while also giving back,” said the organization’s CEO, Amy Berry. “As has been the case since this program started, proceeds from the purchase of Lake Tahoe license plates help advance important environmental improvement projects in the Tahoe Basin.”
Winter ski season is just around the corner, and snow has already begun to fall in much of the Sierra Nevada. Those interested in snagging a free lift ticket with their purchase of a Tahoe license plate shouldn’t waste time to receive the full value.
Tahoe license plate fees are $50 for new and $40 to renew for California residents—on top of existing licensing fees or customization. Nevada residents pay $61 for new and $30 to renew.
“We’re grateful to all the resorts and the participating skiers and snowboarders for their support,” Vasques added.
For more information on the Plates for Powder program, click here.