This study assesses Kentucky’s options for potentially re-plating all motor vehicles registered in the Commonwealth. The report begins with a background and discussion of Kentucky’s plate production processes, the difference between flat and embossed plates, and the structure of license plate labor at the Kentucky State Reformatory in La Grange. It details current plate production costs and processes, along with fees and production numbers. It evaluates three scenarios for future plate production: flat plate production, a hybrid system with embossed general issue plates and flat specialty plates, and an embossed plate system with in-house printed sheeting. Also included is an analysis of the effects of license plate characteristics on automated license plate reader accuracy, which has implications for automated screening and tolling. From there, the policies and approaches of other states are discussed. The report ends with a discussion of implementation costs, challenges, and strategies for state officials
