BMV announces new Amateur Radio License Plate design

Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 7:00 PM

The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is pleased to announce a new license plate design for amateur radio operators in Indiana starting February 13.

The Amateur Radio License Plate will be available to Indiana residents who hold a current FCC-issued license to operate an amateur radio station. Each plate will feature the operator’s assigned callsign and is available for passenger vehicles and trucks(11,000 lbs. or less).

"The Amateur Radio License Plate is a point of pride for Indiana amateur radio operators who dedicate their time and technical skills to serving our communities through public service, education, and emergency communications,” said Bob Burns, Indiana Section Manager for the Amateur Radio Relay League(ARRL®). “The plate’s look will help honor the heritage and continuing contributions of amateur radio while inspiring a new generation of licensees.”

Amateur radio operators in Indiana play a significant role in emergency and disaster response. Serving in a volunteer capacity, operators work closely with public safety agencies, emergency management, and the National Weather Service to provide reliable backup communications during severe weather and other emergencies.

“We’re proud to make the Amateur Radio License Plate available to those who step up and play a role when emergencies like severe weather arise,” Commissioner Kevin Garvey said. “Their service helps keep communities informed and safe.”

The Amateur Radio License Plate serves not only as identification for these volunteers but also as a visible symbol of their public service commitment. Operators will need to visit a BMV branch to apply for the plate and provide proper documentation regarding their operator’s license.

For a complete list of branch locations and hours, to complete an online transaction, or to find a 24-hour BMV Connect kiosk near you, visit IN.gov/BMV.