California and Nevada drivers can score a free day of skiing or snowboarding at a Lake Tahoe-area resort this winter by purchasing a special license plate through the Tahoe Fund‘s Plates for Powder program.
The program is returning for the 2026-27 season, offering complimentary lift tickets or trail passes to anyone who purchases a new Lake Tahoe license plate. The offer is available at 15 participating downhill and cross-country ski areas throughout the Tahoe region, giving drivers another reason to show their support for the area while getting something in return.
How Plates for Powder Works
The process is relatively straightforward. Drivers in California and Nevada can purchase a new Lake Tahoe license plate and receive a free ski pass valid during the 2026-27 winter season. The offer is available while supplies last, and some restrictions apply.
The cost of a new plate is $50 in California and $61 in Nevada. Annual renewal fees are $40 for California drivers and $30 for Nevada drivers. Personalized plates are also available for an additional charge.
The Tahoe Fund has organized Plates for Powder since 2011, with proceeds from plate purchases and renewals supporting environmental restoration and recreation projects throughout the Tahoe Basin.
“Since 2011, the ‘Plates for Powder’ program has generated funds from plate sales and renewal fees that have come back to Lake Tahoe in the form of hiking and biking trails and watershed restoration projects.” – Tahoe Fund CEO Amy Berry.
15 Tahoe Ski Areas Participating
The complimentary ticket can be redeemed at 15 participating ski areas, including some of the biggest names in Tahoe skiing and several cross-country destinations.
Participating resorts and ski areas 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
- Sierra-at-Tahoe
- Soda Springs
- Sugar Bowl Resort
- Tahoe XC
- Tahoe City Sports Park
- Tahoe Donner Cross Country
Beyond providing a free day on the mountain, the program helps fund projects intended to protect and improve the Tahoe Basin. Previous initiatives supported through the program include wetland restoration at the former Motel 6 site in South Lake Tahoe, outdoor recreation opportunities for underserved communities, and the recently completed Tunnel Creek Singletrack Trail on Tahoe’s east shore.
Drivers interested in participating can find purchasing instructions, ticket redemption details, and additional restrictions at TahoePlates.com.