California is nearing the end of its current license plate format, prompting the Department of Motor Vehicles to announce a brand-new sequence starting next year. Millions of drivers will be affected, as the plates used since 1980 approach their final combination.
California’s existing plates feature one number, followed by three letters, then three more numbers. According to DMV spokesperson Ronald Ongtoaboc, the final combination in this series will likely appear in 2026, ending with 9ZZZ999. The demand for new vehicle registrations has risen sharply, pushing the sequence to run out earlier than some officials initially predicted.
Why California must change its longstanding license plate format so quickly in today’s market
A recent report indicates that vehicle purchases have surged due to concerns over potential trade wars and higher car prices. Analysts believe that many motorists rushed to register new cars in March and April, quickly depleting the remaining plate combinations. In fact, the California New Car Dealers Assn. found an 8.3% increase in new vehicle registrations in the first quarter of 2025 compared with the same period last year.
Once the current system is exhausted, the new plates will be arranged as three numerals, followed by three letters, and ending with one numeral (for instance, 000AAA1). This layout preserves a familiar look while ensuring additional combinations for upcoming registrations. Who will be the lucky driver to claim the very last plate of the old sequence? That remains a mystery. Below is a quick comparison:
| Old Format | Start Year | Final Combination | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1AAA000 | 1980 | 9ZZZ999 | 1AAA000 |
| New Format | Start Year | Estimated Introduction | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| 000AAA0 | 2026 (approx) | Next year or slightly later | 000AAA1 |
Both systems use a mix of numbers and letters, but the new arrangement simply flips their positions and adds an extra digit at the end.
Key advice for Californians worried about registering their vehicles next year under new guidelines
If you are planning to purchase or register a vehicle in the coming months, you should stay updated on DMV announcements. Obtaining plates early might be a smart move, especially if you want a specific set of letters or numbers. However, the DMV assures that the transition should be seamless for everyone.
As California’s license plate supply diminishes, the new format stands ready to replace it. Motorists should keep an eye on DMV updates, plan ahead if seeking a particular plate, and expect to see the fresh sequence rolling out statewide next year. Many drivers see it as a piece of history in the making—so act now if you have your heart set on an iconic combination.