Wendy Auger never expected her longtime license plate to spark statewide attention. For fifteen years, her personalized plate reading “PB4WEGO” had been a lighthearted reminder familiar to any parent preparing for a long car ride. Children laughed, adults smiled, and the message became part of her family’s identity.
But unexpectedly, the New Hampshire Department of Motor Vehicles notified her that the plate violated state guidelines and would no longer be allowed. The sudden reversal left Wendy confused and disappointed, especially after so many years without issue. For Wendy, the plate was not meant to shock or offend; it simply reflected everyday humor shared by families everywhere. She believed the message was harmless and that the interpretation behind it had always been positive.
Losing the plate felt like losing a small piece of personal expression that had connected her to countless strangers on the road. The decision raised questions about how standards are applied and why something approved for over a decade was now being reconsidered. As the story gained attention, many community members voiced support, noting that the message was widely understood as a playful phrase rather than inappropriate content.
They argued that consistency and clarity in state guidelines were important to avoid confusion for drivers who had long-approved plates. Though the ultimate decision rested with state officials, Wendy’s situation highlighted a broader conversation about personalized plates, public interpretation, and the limits of expression. Her experience served as a reminder that even small symbols can carry meaning—and that changes to familiar routines often spark big reactions.