What's the Difference Between DMV License Plate Selection and 12123?
2 Answers
The difference between DMV license plate selection and 12123 lies in the fact that with 12123 new vehicle plate selection, you can abandon your choice and reselect. Here is an extended explanation: Selection Opportunities: There are two chances to select a license plate online—once through the online DMV system and once at the DMV office. Carefully enter the vehicle identification number (VIN) and personal information as required by the system. The information entered must exactly match the registration details processed by the DMV; otherwise, the selection will be invalid. Important Notes After Successful Selection: Once you successfully choose a license plate, the number will be reserved for 3 working days starting from the next day. During this period, vehicles that have already selected a license plate number online are not allowed to make another selection or modify submitted information via the internet.
As a car owner who frequently deals with license plate number selection, I find that going to the DMV in person for number selection inevitably involves long queues and waiting for hours. It's bearable in summer, but the cold in winter is unbearable. The range of available numbers is also limited, mainly consisting of random options assigned by the system. In contrast, the 12123 app is completely different—you can handle everything directly on your mobile app. Log in anytime, anywhere, to browse and select numbers with just a few simple steps. The app offers a much larger pool of available numbers and even allows previewing different combinations, saving both time and effort. However, using 12123 requires registering an account, completing real-name verification, and linking DMV information beforehand. It can be troublesome if you don’t have a smartphone or encounter network issues. From my personal experience, 12123 better suits the pace of modern life, especially for avoiding traffic jams and long queues during busy weekends. On the other hand, selecting numbers at the DMV is more suitable for those who prefer face-to-face service or older drivers who aren’t accustomed to digital processes. Both methods have their pros and cons, but in terms of convenience, 12123 wins with its flexibility and efficiency.