General distinguishing number and special plates for manufacturer, transporter, or dealer; application; proof; issuance; duration; fee.

Sec. 245. (1) A manufacturer, transporter, or dealer may apply to the department on the appropriate form for a general distinguishing number and for 1 or more special plates. The applicant shall submit proof of the applicant's status as a bona fide manufacturer, transporter, or dealer as may reasonably be required by the department. (2) The department, upon granting the application, shall issue a special plate with a general distinguishing number assigned to the applicant and displayed on the special plate. The distinguishing number for a special plate must be different from every other special plate. (3) A manufacturer or transporter may make application on a form prescribed by the secretary of state for 1 or more special plates, which are valid for 3 years. Upon approval of the application, the fee for 1 or more special plates is 3 times the annual fee assessed under section 803. (4) A dealer may make application on a form prescribed by the secretary of state for 1 or more special plates, which are valid for the term of the license held by the dealer. Upon approval of the application, the fee for 1 or more special plates is the term of years of the license held by the dealer times the fee assessed under section 803.