The long-awaited Gray Whale license plates will be available to Oregonians on Friday, Feb. 1, according to KOIN 6 News.

The Oregon State University Marine Mammal Institute Gray Whale vehicle license plate is only for passenger vehicles titled and registered in Oregon, according to the DMV.

The DMV can't process or accept any applications until Friday.

In addition to the regular title, registration and plate manufacturing fees, the gray whale plate has a $40 surcharge due when you first order the plate — and at each registration renewal. The surcharge is the same amount whether you choose the four-year or two-year registration periods.

Customers who purchased a prepaid voucher may use that with their application in lieu of the surcharge, however, the voucher can only be used once. The OSU Marine Mammal Institute was required to sell at least 3,000 vouchers before the DMV could start implementation of the license plate. Surcharge funds will go to the OSU Marine Mammal Institute to help fund marine mammal research and education.

Those interested in receiving a Gray Whale license plate can apply by mail, at DMV field offices, online or through licensed vehicle dealers when they buy a car.

The cost of a set of plates depends upon when and how a vehicle owner applies for a new set.

KOIN 6 NEWS is a media partner of the Portland Tribune.