What Indiana blackout license plates are

Indiana blackout license plates have a black background with white lettering instead of the standard white background with blue and gold trim. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) offers them as an optional plate design that you can request when you renew your registration or get new plates. They look similar to vanity plates but are not custom — you keep your assigned number sequence, just with different colors.

The blackout design is purely cosmetic and does not change how your vehicle is registered, taxed, or insured. Your registration remains valid in all 50 states, and law enforcement can read and scan the plate the same way they read standard plates. The only difference is appearance.

Key Takeaways

  • Indiana blackout plates are available through the BMV at the time of registration renewal or when you request new plates.
  • You keep your existing license plate number — blackout plates are not vanity plates and do not require a separate request process.
  • The cost is the same as a standard registration renewal; there is no additional fee for the blackout design.
  • You can request blackout plates in person at any BMV branch or online through the Indiana BMV website if your renewal is due.

How to request blackout plates at the BMV

When you go to renew your registration, tell the BMV clerk that you want blackout plates instead of standard plates. You will need your current registration, proof of insurance, and a valid ID. The clerk will note your request in the system, and your new plates will be ordered with the black background and white lettering.

If you are renewing online through the Indiana BMV website, look for a plate design option during checkout. Not all online renewal sessions offer this choice — if you do not see it, you will need to renew in person at a branch to request the blackout design. Call your local BMV branch ahead of time to confirm they can process blackout plate requests, since some smaller branches may have limited options.

The plates will arrive by mail within two to three weeks after your renewal is processed. You will receive both the front and rear plates (Indiana requires plates on both). Install them yourself or have a mechanic do it — there is no special installation requirement.

Cost and timing for blackout plates

Blackout plates cost the same as standard plates. You pay only your normal registration renewal fee, which varies based on your vehicle's weight and type. There is no upcharge for the blackout design.

You can only request blackout plates when your registration is up for renewal or when you need replacement plates for damage or loss. You cannot switch to blackout plates mid-registration cycle. If your registration does not renew for several months, you will have to wait until that renewal date to make the change.

If your current plates are damaged or unreadable, you can request replacement plates at any time, and you can choose the blackout design when you do. Replacement plates cost less than a full renewal but still give you the option to change the design.

What happens if your blackout plates are damaged or lost

If a blackout plate is damaged, bent, or faded, you can get a replacement through the BMV. Go to any BMV branch with your registration and ID, and request a replacement plate. You can keep the blackout design or switch back to standard plates at that time — the choice is yours.

If a plate is stolen, report it to local police and get a case number. Bring that case number to the BMV along with your registration and ID. The BMV will issue replacement plates, and you can request blackout plates again if you want them.

Blackout plates and vehicle inspections

Indiana does not require vehicle inspections for registration, so blackout plates will not affect any inspection process. However, if you move to another state that does require inspections, the inspector will still be able to read your blackout plates — the lettering is white and clearly visible, just on a dark background instead of a light one.

Law enforcement and automated traffic cameras can read blackout plates the same way they read standard plates. The contrast is sufficient for license plate readers and human officers. You will not have any issues with traffic stops, tolls, or parking enforcement because of the plate design.

Switching back to standard plates

If you decide you want standard plates instead, you can switch at your next registration renewal. Tell the BMV clerk you want to go back to the standard white background with blue and gold trim. There is no penalty or fee for switching designs — you straightforward request the different style when you renew.

You do not have to wait for your registration to expire if you want to change when ready. You can request replacement plates at any BMV branch and choose the standard design. This will cost less than a full renewal but will give you new plates with the design you prefer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do blackout plates cost more than regular plates?

No. Blackout plates cost the same as standard plates. You pay only your normal registration renewal fee, which is based on your vehicle's weight and type, not the plate design.

Can I get blackout plates if my registration is not up for renewal yet?

Only if you need replacement plates for damage or loss. You cannot switch plate designs mid-registration cycle unless you pay for replacement plates separately. Wait until your renewal date to change designs for free.

Will blackout plates cause problems with traffic cameras or police radar?

No. Blackout plates have white lettering on a black background, which is readable by license plate readers, traffic cameras, and law enforcement. The design does not interfere with any enforcement or toll collection technology.

Can I get blackout plates online?

Some Indiana BMV online renewals offer plate design options, but not all. If you do not see the option during your online renewal, you will need to renew in person at a BMV branch to request blackout plates. Call ahead to confirm your local branch can process the request.

What if I move out of Indiana — will my blackout plates still be valid?

Yes. Blackout plates are valid in all 50 states. The design is cosmetic only and does not affect registration or road legality. You can drive with Indiana blackout plates anywhere in the United States.