Indiana Blackout License Plate Sales Topped 380,000

The state has raised $12.9 million for BMV modernization through the popular $45 optional plate.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Trucks

Bold vector editorial illustration of a minimalist black embossed license plate, representing Indiana's specialty automotive program. — Specialty license plate fees in Indiana have generated $12.9 million, funding modernization projects at the Bureau of Motor Vehicles across the state. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Indiana has reached a milestone of 380,000 Blackout license plates sold since the design launched in August 2025. The revenue generated by these specialty plates is funding widespread upgrades to state motor vehicle services.

Why it matters

The $12.9 million in plate fees supports a five-year modernization strategy aimed at improving efficiency and customer service for Hoosier drivers. This funding has allowed the state to invest in new technology and staff compensation.

The Blackout plate carries a $45 surcharge per registration and renewal, contributing to the $12.9 million total revenue. While 90,000 plates were sold by the end of 2025, adoption has surged to the current 380,000 mark.

The players

Governor Braun

The Indiana state leader who issued Executive Order 25-41 to overhaul bureau services.

Bureau of Motor Vehicles

The state agency responsible for vehicle registration, licensing, and consumer-facing kiosk management.

The details

The Bureau of Motor Vehicles is utilizing these funds to implement Governor Braun's Executive Order 25-41. This strategy includes deploying new payment machines that accept digital wallets and increasing the footprint of 24/7 BMV Connect kiosks. Additionally, the revenue supports increased pay for customer-facing staff to help streamline in-person and digital transactions.

August 8, 2025: Blackout license plate sales began.
End of 2025: 90,000 total plates were purchased.
2026: BMV installed new payment machines and kiosks.
October 5, 2026: Governor announced the 380,000 plate sales milestone.

The Home Front

The surge in plate revenue provides the fiscal backbone for Executive Order 25-41, which mandates a five-year modernization of state vehicle services. This shift mirrors broader efforts by state agencies to prioritize self-service technology like 24/7 kiosks to reduce wait times.

If you are interested in the Blackout design, you can check your eligibility and current registration costs at the official state portal. Keep in mind that the $45 fee applies to both your initial registration and each subsequent renewal.

The takeaway

The popularity of the Blackout plate has significantly bolstered the state's ability to fund digital service upgrades. Drivers should verify their current plate's expiration date to see if they are eligible to swap to this design during their next registration renewal.