Field notes for plate spotters
Guides
Where to find rare plates, how to read traffic, and the stories behind the sightings. New guides added as the road rolls on.
Rare-plate hunting
Spotting a Hawaii Plate on the Mainland
A spotter’s guide to finding a Hawaii license plate outside Hawaii — from major military communities to the surprising places rainbow plates turn up.
Rare-plate hunting
Spotting an Alaska Plate in the Lower 48
A field guide to spotting an Alaska license plate in the continental United States — from military corridors and Pacific Northwest gateways to the ALCAN highway.
Spotting tips
Why Do So Many Trucks Have Indiana License Plates?
Indiana plates appear on lots of commercial trucks. Learn why — and why truck stops are a good place to find Indiana.
Spotting tips
Spotting a Virginia License Plate From a Distance
Virginia’s standard plate has a subtle giveaway: its distinctive serif lettering. Learn how to recognize it before you can read the state name.