What is a digital license plate?

 

brief information

• Digital license plates allow drivers to register and renew their license plates from anywhere using a smartphone app.
• These technologically equipped license plates are already legally issued in several states, and corresponding laws are currently being passed in many more states.
• Digital license plates can be particularly useful for commercial purposes, as they are much more practical for companies with a whole fleet of vehicles.

For many drivers, keeping their vehicle's license plates up to date is a hassle. Registering and renewing license plates has traditionally involved a long trip to the DMV, taking time off from work or personal matters. Recently, a California-based technology company began working on a solution that would allow vehicle owners to update their license plates instantly using a smartphone app.

Digital license plates are far from commonplace, but several states have already approved their use and many more are in the process of passing laws to do so. In this article, we'll look at the features of digital license plates, the costs involved, and their practical application in the real world.

How do digital license plates work?

Digital license plates are battery-powered monochrome screens that are easy to install and manage via a connected smartphone app. The screen can be switched between light and dark mode, with the small area below the plate lettering reserved for custom messages or alerts. Digital license plates also feature location tracking, making it easier to find a stolen vehicle or monitor trips for speed and mileage . While private individuals with a single car may find these features useful and appealing, the potential practical benefits for commercial organizations multiply. For companies managing a fleet, digital license plates can help maintain vehicle compliance and make budget planning more efficient in terms of time and cost.

Are digital license plates legal?

Several states have already decided to allow their citizens to purchase and use digital license plates. The first states to allow digital license plates for personal and commercial use are Arizona, California , and Michigan, while Texas only allows the technology for commercial use. The approval process for digital license plates is lengthy, and many more states are currently drafting laws. Keep in mind that cars with digital license plates can still drive freely across the country; the legality is only limited in terms of which states will allow them for registration and renewal.

Digital license plates – costs and sources

The cost of digital license plates remains a major sticking point for skeptical consumers, many of whom are already frustrated by DMV fees and the proliferation of subscription services. Still, for some, the cost is justified given the convenience and modern look.

sold exclusively by Reviver ( overlay opens ). In eligible states, additional service plans are recommended to access all features. Alternatively, Reviver offers a monthly subscription that includes a new (or "like new") digital license plate and all features.

Should I get a digital license plate?

Whether a digital license plate is right for you depends on several factors, including budget, number of vehicles, and personal preference. Before you decide, consider the pros and cons:

Advantages of digital license plates

• Fewer trips to the vehicle registration office: Since your license plate can be registered or renewed electronically, you don't have to visit the vehicle registration office nearly as often.
• Easier fleet management: Convenience is multiplied when managing multiple vehicles, which would otherwise require individual trips and re-stickers.
• Integrated tracking device: Digital license plates enable location tracking, which can be used to monitor trips or find your car if it is stolen .
• Customizable: Digital license plates feature light and dark mode with the ability to add special messages in different fonts to express yourself on the road.

Disadvantages of digital license plates

• Additional Costs: Digital license plates require a one-time purchase with service fees or a subscription service that adds to the total amount you owe the government.
• Dependence on technology: Although the battery life (up to five years) is considerable, the plate relies on Bluetooth and LTE connectivity for changes.
• Only offered in select states: It is legal to drive with a digital license plate anywhere in the USA, but the availability of the issue is still very limited.
• Privacy concerns: Despite security features, the integrated tracking device and digital app experience raise privacy concerns that are not present with traditional metal plates.

Conclusion

The introduction of digital license plates represents a groundbreaking technological innovation for a previously overlooked aspect of vehicle ownership. This new class of license plate offers new advantages and disadvantages not previously considered with a simple metal plate. While the adoption of digital license plates is still limited due to the small number of states issuing them, rapid adoption by some individuals and fleets means it's only a matter of time before you see one on the road.

 

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