A typical 1980 car tag from Johnson County (with 1987 decals) The month expiration is indicated below the tag code. The number "81", indicating the initial 1981 expiration, is embedded into the upper right corner.
Truck Plates did not use the letter code. They did, however, have a "TK" in the upper left hand corner. Because this came from a pickup under 12,000 GVW, I have to assume that it expires the same time as a car. Vehicles over 12,000 GVW expire in December. Also note the "80" in the upper right and the 81 decal in the lower right.
A 1980 trailer tag. Trailer tags had the "TRLR" along the side, with the classification (in this case, 8000 pounds GVW or less). Also note that the number "80" stamped in the upper right corner. Non-Highway vehicles also had a set of plates, with "NON" on the left side of the plate and "HY" on the right in a pattern similar to the trailer plate.
A low numbered tag from Douglas County. Note the fact that the owner decided to place the renewal stickers in the upper right corner (where the 81 is embossed) rather than the designated spot on the lower right hand corner.
A "12M Farm" Truck tag from Wabaunsee County with all of the "year decals" for a light truck visible. Also note the month sticker in the left hand corner.
A Heavy Farm Truck tag from Pottawatomie County with all of the "year decals" for a heavy truck visible. A 1983-2001 style sticker, updating the truck's weight classification, has been placed across the origianl class decal.