The dawn of digital license plates is here. California and Arizona led the way in taking up this change. Texas has also joined them. In Texas, it is not yet available for all fleets. The new license is an electronic version of the traditional licenses. These licenses are one of the many innovations as fleets take up new technologies.

As reported by Transport Topics, they provide information for both the owners and the public. The plates will monitor the trucks' location, trips, and mileage. The plates will also send maintenance alerts. They will also help counter theft issues. Owners can put the vehicles in stolen mode and enable GPS tracking. The same would help them recover vehicles in case of theft.

Adam Shaivitz noted that the plates could also display other notices. They will show if the car is not operational, stolen, or expired. Fleets can also agree and display adverts on the plates. Ronald Ongtoaboc noted that 12,500 digital plates were registered as of June 21st. However, the plates do not capture the vehicle type.

Truck fleets can have digital license plates in California. The DMV is running a pilot program to replace the metallic plates on vehicles. They will instead have an electronic screen. Tractor trucks will have the digital license in front. The pilot program began two years ago for those willing to take part. The state would have to act quickly to have the plates adopted.

Heavy-duty trucks in Arizona can also use digital license plates. Motor Vehicle Division does not receive any funds from this program. Arizona has registered 499 total digital plates, 51 on commercial vehicles. John Esparza noted that the new plates would benefit the trucking industry. However, he also said that the industry is in no hurry to adopt the same. They will lay low until they understand all the requirements.

Texas has partnered with Reviver for this purpose. Esparza stated that they would be of great help. He also said that technology has come in handy in making processes easier. Currently, in Texas, the digital plates are on vehicles that use two plates. The digital one at the rear end and the metallic one in front. It has yet to be available on those with single license plates. With time a wider range of vehicles will be eligible. It might take time, but digital license plates are the way to go for the future.