Yes, they are real. Klinton had them done before he left the White House. He had them installed on the NEW limo he never had a chance to ride in. The limo was designed for President Bush. I'm not sure if Bush had removed the tags or not.
Washington DC is a FEDERAL CAPITAL and should NOT Be a state. They are taxed and they do vote on their CITY issues. They vote for Presidents etc.
If they ever do squeeze statehood out, then I propose every city in the USA become a state. I want my own state so I can make myself Governer. Then I can own all the Class III weapons I want. Do I get federal assistance and get a M1 tank for my National Guard? [;)]