How do I fit a plate to a car?

You can get a professional to fit your new plate to your car for you if you want. But sometimes, you would prefer to do it yourself, especially if you have already spent money on the registration itself.

Fortunately, fitting a new plate to a car is an easy DIY job — something you can do with basic tools at home. Please note, though, that you need to fit it properly to remain compliant with the law. Failing to do so could land you in trouble later.

In this post, we go through the various steps you need to take to fit a plate to a car. It’s so simple that even complete novices can do it.

Before you get started, you’ll need a few basic tools:

• A Phillips head screwdriver
• Electric drill with 4mm and 6mm drill bits

Step 1: Remove Your Old Plate

If you already have a plate on your car, you’ll need to remove it first.

Start by taking off the plastic caps that cover the screws attaching the plate to the vehicle. Then use your Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws underneath. They should come out easily, releasing the plate from the vehicle.

Sometimes the plate won’t come away even after removing the screws. Usually this means adhesive was used during fitting.

If the plate is stuck, gently pull it away from the vehicle from one corner using gradual pressure. It should peel away slowly.

Do not pull too hard, as you could crack the existing plate or damage the vehicle bodywork.

Once the old plate has been removed, thoroughly clean the area underneath before fitting the new one.

Step 2: Position Your New Plate

Take your new plate and position it correctly. In many cases, you will need to drill holes in the correct locations. Plate suppliers do not pre-drill these because fixing positions vary between vehicles.

If your old plate came off in one piece, place it directly over the new one and use the existing holes as a guide.

If the old plate broke during removal, try placing the pieces back together and marking the hole positions before drilling.

Step 3: Drill the Holes

Place a piece of scrap wood underneath the plate before drilling to protect the acrylic surface.

Take your time and drill carefully. Pushing too quickly can crack the plastic or damage the rear surface.

If you have selected 3D Gel or 4D letters, avoid drilling through or too close to the lettering.

Step 4: Attach the Plate to the Vehicle

Once the holes are drilled, line the plate up with the fixing holes on the vehicle and insert the screws by hand first.

Then tighten them using your screwdriver until secure.

Do not overtighten the screws, as this can crack or damage the acrylic material.

Attach Your Quick Plates Without Drilling

If using a drill makes you nervous, double-sided automotive adhesive tape is an excellent alternative. When using proper automotive tape, this method works extremely well.

Follow these steps:

• Clean the area behind the old plate thoroughly and remove any old adhesive residue.
• Apply four strips of automotive tape to the rear of the new plate in vertical lines.
• Remove the backing from the tape to expose the adhesive.
• Line up the plate carefully in the correct position and press firmly into place for two to three minutes.
• Take the vehicle for a short drive afterwards to ensure everything remains secure.