California to change license plate sequence due to shortage of combinations

CA to change license plate sequence due to shortage of combinations
For the first time in 46 years, California is changing its license plate sequence.
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Saturday, September 12, 2026 6:28AM

For the first time in 46 years, California is changing its license plate sequence.

Since 1980, standard plates have featured one number, three letters and three numbers.

Now, the Los Angeles Times reports that the state has run out of available combinations.

The next series will use three numbers, followed by three letters and a final number.

The DMV has reportedly already begun producing the new plates, though it's unclear when they'll first appear on vehicles.

The new configuration is expected to last another 40 years based on historical data. Each configuration has more than 100 million combinations.

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