Where do license plates come from?

License plates originate from the need to identify vehicles on the road. In the late 19th century, many countries began requiring vehicle owners to display unique identification numbers, leading to the standardization of license plates. Initially, these were homemade or issued by local authorities, but over time, they became standardized and regulated by state or national governments to ensure consistency and easy recognition. Today, license plates serve both identification and regulatory purposes, often featuring designs that reflect regional culture and pride.