Drivers in Indiana with a darker fashion sense can now get a license plate to match. The Hoosier State has joined Iowa, Kentucky, Minnesota and others in offering blacked-out plates as an alternative to more traditional designs.
Hoosiers can purchase blackout plates starting Aug. 8 from the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
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What is a blackout plate? A blackout plate is exactly what it sounds like — a black, rectangular license plate bordered by a thin, white line and lettered in white font.
How soon can you buy a blackout license plate in Indiana? Beginning Friday, Aug. 8, 2025, Hoosiers can purchase the new blackout license plate from the BMV.
Where can you buy a blackout plate in Indiana? There are three ways to purchase a blackout license plate in Indiana: online at myBMV.com, at a BMV Connect kiosk or at any BMV branch.
Who is eligible to get a blackout plate in Indiana? Blackout plates are available to Indiana residents who drive a passenger motor vehicle, a light truck weighing less than 11,000 Ibs., a motorcycle or an RV.
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©Bradley Hohulin/IndyStar Freund Family Food's Trio of Italy, three funnel cakes inspired by tiramisu, cannoli and Italian wedding cake, are available at the 2025 Indiana State Fair Can you combine the blackout plate with another design, like college or military insignia? No. According to BMV, the blackout plate is a "standalone design" and cannot be combined with other specialty license plates. A disability-accessible version of the blackout plate will be available at a future date, according to BMV officials.
Can you personalize a Blackout plate? Yes, Indiana's blackout plates can be customized for a $45 fee. Personalized license plate messages are available on a first-come, first-served basis, have character limits (eight characters for standard passenger vehicles), and must be approved by the BMV.
The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles’ new blackout plate, featuring a black background with white characters, will be available to Hoosier drivers starting August 8, 2025. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles’ new blackout plate, featuring a black background with white characters, will be available to Hoosier drivers starting August 8, 2025. © Casey Smith / Indiana Capital Chronicle Hoosiers who get their plate approved will receive it in the mail within approximately 30 days of their request, according to the BMV. You can apply for a personalized plate at BMV branch, kiosk or online at myBMV.
How much do Blackout plates cost? The Blackout plate is considered an "alternative license plate," according to the BMV. Here's a breakdown of how much it costs to get one:
Alternate license plate design fee: $45 Optional personalized license plate message fee: $45 Replacement plate fee (before renewal): $9.50 Do you have to wait for your current plate to expire? No, you can get a Blackout plate before your current expires by paying the costs listed above, plus a $9.50 fee.
Are blackout plates sold by third-party vendors legal? Online merchants sell black license plates and other similar novelty designs, but that doesn't make them street legal. To avoid getting an expensive ticket, get yours from the Indiana BMV.