Several companies are looking to replace ordinary license plates with digital formats that would benefit both vehicle owners and state motor vehicle regulators, with Pennsylvania one of the testing grounds, writes Eric Taub for The New York Times.

Reviver Auto is working on the RPlate, which can be validated using a cellular signal after the registration fee is paid. This would save the state the cost of postage and materials for paper renewals. The screen is able to display anything, making it simple to switch designs if the vehicle’s owner decides to purchase a vanity plate.

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The RPlate’s possible uses include flashing Amber Alerts on the plate, running targeted advertisements, and indicating if the vehicle is stolen. Reviver will start testing the plate in Arizona this month and in Pennsylvania and Nevada later this year.

Meanwhile, Compliance Innovations is taking a different approach by digitizing only part of a standard license plate. It uses technology to display codes indicating whether the vehicle is stolen, not insured, unregistered, or eligible for handicapped parking. The company is currently testing its plate privately in Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Texas.

Read more about the future of license plates in The New York Times by clicking here.

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