- Indiana’s blackout plate sold over 40,000 units in just two months.
- The plate costs $45 for new cars or $9.50 as a replacement.
- Other states with similar plates include Texas, Iowa, and New York.
The blackout license plates available in Indiana are proving to be a major hit and a strong source of revenue for the state. Introduced two months ago, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) says it has already sold more than 40,000 of the new plates, a figure that suggests Hoosiers have quickly embraced the understated design.
Read: Indiana Just Made A License Plate That’s Cooler Than Your Whole Car
The new plate, featuring a black background with white lettering instead of the usual white with dark blue or black characters, offers a cleaner, more refined look that appeals to car enthusiasts who appreciate subtle design choices.
A Simple Switch
Drivers can order the blackout plate for $45 when registering a new vehicle, or can swap their current plate before it expires for a modest $9.50 replacement fee.
Speaking with The Republic, Indiana Governor Mike Braun said the new plates have already generated more than $1.3 million in revenue, funds that will go toward improving the BMV’s operations. The money will support upgrades to digital tools, streamline transactions, and expand self-service options.
“This is an excellent example of our state agencies finding creative, entrepreneurial ways to provide value to Hoosiers while generating revenue to better serve them,” Braun said. “I applaud the BMV’s efforts and look forward to seeing how the funds from these sales are used to make the BMV a better, more convenient one-stop shop for Hoosiers.”
A Popular Idea Spreading
It’s perhaps a surprise that not all US states offer black plates like these, as it seems like an easy way to generate revenue while also giving motorists something that looks cleaner. Among the states that do offer black plates are Iowa, Texas, New York, Tennessee, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.
BMV Commissioner Kevin Garney echoed the Governor’s sentiment: “This new Blackout plate is a win, win for Hoosiers. (They) have a stylish new plate that they are very excited about and, as an added bonus, the revenue generated from their purchase is going right back into improving future BMV experiences, not only for themselves, but for all Hoosiers. “
Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles/Facebook
