Indiana's Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) has generated nearly $13 million from the sale of its "blackout" license plates in the year since their launch, money that is directly funding a five-year modernization plan for the agency. The governor’s office announced the significant revenue on Monday, detailing investments that will lead to improved services for residents across Vigo County and the wider Wabash Valley.
More than 380,000 of the minimalist license plates, featuring white numerals and letters on an all-black background, have been sold. This figure includes registration renewals, such as when a driver transfers plates to a new vehicle. BMV spokesman Greg Dunn stated that approximately 314,000 blackout plates are currently on the road. The optional design adds a $45 fee to both initial vehicle registration and annual renewal costs. Sales for the plates began last August, with Hoosiers purchasing nearly 22,000 plates in the first month.
The funds generated are specifically earmarked for modernizing the BMV. Gov. Mike Braun directed the agency to update its systems, enhance customer service, and find more efficient ways to operate. According to Gov. Braun, "Hoosiers clearly like the blackout plate, and its success is helping us build a better BMV." He also noted that the revenue is helping the agency invest in its employees and technology to make interacting with the BMV faster and easier. BMV Commissioner Kevin Garvey highlighted the initiative, stating that the blackout plate offered an opportunity to provide "Hoosiers something they wanted while generating revenue we can put directly back into improving the BMV."
So far this year, the BMV has begun implementing some of these improvements. The agency has purchased new payment machines capable of accepting tap-to-pay options and digital currency. Additionally, more 24/7 BMV Connect kiosks have been added statewide, increasing accessibility for various transactions. Customer-facing employees at BMV branches are also slated to receive pay raises as part of this investment.
The modernization effort stems from an executive order issued by Gov. Braun last year, which directed the BMV to overhaul its 20-year-old tracking and record support software, along with other outdated systems, over a five-year period. This directive followed a comprehensive review of the agency's systems completed last year, which produced a report with recommendations for improvements or replacements. The resulting plan includes 13 specific initiatives aimed at enhancing the BMV experience. These future developments could include the introduction of an AI chatbot, automated personalized notifications for customers, upgrades to branch cameras, and the implementation of digital driver’s licenses.
