The digital license plates that had been allowed under a pilot program are now available to all California drivers.
Gov. Gavin Newsom last month signed Assembly Bill 984, which establishes rules to allow such “alternative devices” that are approved by the California Highway Patrol.
The digital screens are one of two non-traditional license plates that are now seen on California cars.
Digital plate
What it is: A digital screen, about 6 by 12 inches, that displays the license number and registration tags and allows some customizing of the design. The software also supports tracking, toll paying and DMV registration through an app.
Who sells them: The only company currently selling them is Reviver, based in Granite Bay. Users have to sign up for a subscription, at $19.95 a month for the battery-powered version. A wired version, available only for commercial vehicles, costs $24.95 a month. Installation of either costs extra.
Notes: The digital plate is available only for the rear of the car. A conventional plate must be used on the front.
Wrap plate
What it is: A flexible stick-on vinyl plate that doesn’t require mounting hardware. It’s available in eight of the plate designs offered by the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Who sells them: A Huntington Beach company called License Plate Wrap. Each costs $94, including tax and shipping. The company coordinates with the DMV, and there’s a surcharge for registration.
Notes: They are intended for use as the front plate, so owners of cars without front plate holders don’t have to put holes in their bumpers.
Source: www.mercurynews.com