Blackout plate sales net $12.9M for Indiana BMV modernization; pay raises and tech upgrades cited

Reporting in the Indiana Capital Chronicle, the governor’s office said on 2026-10-05 that sales of Indiana’s optional “blackout” license plate have generated $12.9 million toward a five-year Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) modernization plan. The blackout design — white numerals and letters on an all-black background — began sales in August 2025 and adds $45 to initial registration and to annual renewal fees. The Chronicle reported the BMV has sold more than 380,000 blackout plates since launch and noted reported totals include renewals.

The article said BMV spokesman Greg Dunn reported about 314,000 blackout plates are "on the road," and that Hoosiers bought more than 90,000 blackout plates by the end of 2025 (nearly 22,000 in the first month). It reported the funds are being directed toward the five-year modernization ordered by Gov. Mike Braun by executive order last year. The Chronicle said planned or implemented steps cited by the agency include new payment machines that accept tap-to-pay and digital currency, more 24/7 BMV Connect kiosks statewide, a completed comprehensive systems review with recommended replacements, and pay raises for many customer-facing BMV employees.

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