A. For the purposes of testing laden vehicles designed for the transportation of cargo, a manufacturer may obtain a manufacturer laden vehicle test license plate or year validation tab by applying to the department and by paying an annual fee as follows:

1. 1. Thirty-six dollars, for a vehicle with a declared gross weight of twelve thousand pounds or less.
2. 2. Two hundred fifty-three dollars, for a vehicle with a declared gross weight of more than twelve thousand pounds but not more than twenty-six thousand pounds.
3. 3. One thousand seventy dollars, for a vehicle with a declared gross weight of more than twenty-six thousand pounds.