States like California are getting ready to add another digit to their license plate format. In the United States alone, there are over 285 million registered motor vehicles. This includes 96.9 million cars, 174 million trucks, 9.52 million motorcycles, and 968,000 buses. The first license plate was issued in the United States by Massachusetts in 1903, says MotorWorld.

While New York was the first state to require license plates in 1901, those early plates were made by car owners and displayed their initials, not stateissued. Plates were not produced, allowing car owners to make their own. Using initials might offer some challenges, if your plate identifier matches another vehicle.

Very few cars were traveling down roads in 1903, so you were safe to have a unique plate. Today, with over 285 million registered, that would be a nightmare.

License plates have come a long way since 1901, but we are still facing obstacles. California will soon add another digit giving the impression the plate looks like a social security number. Currently they have seven-digit format, but that could soon change.

DMV must use formats that develop unique numbers and letters. To add to the mix, cars display personalized plates. To challenge yourself, see how many different plate formats you can see in your hometown. It may surprise you. Happy Motoring!