The license plate game is a pastime typically undertaken during travel, with the objective of spotting license plates from as many different states or regions as possible. Participants observe the plates of passing vehicles and mark them off a list or mentally track their progress. For example, a traveler might note plates from California, Nevada, and Arizona on a road trip through the Southwest.
The recreational activity provides entertainment during long journeys and can enhance observation skills. It also offers a subtle introduction to geography and the diverse origins of travelers. Its origins are difficult to pinpoint, but the game likely emerged alongside the increased prevalence of automobiles and interstate travel.
