Choosing The Right Screw Size For License Plates

Choosing the right size screw for your number plate is important, not only to avoid damaging your car but also to ensure you're complying with the law. The DVLA, the governing body responsible for number plate laws in the UK, states that you cannot use screws to obscure the characters on a number plate. This means that the average number plate screw size of 1/4-14-3/4 inches may not fit your vehicle, and you should pay attention to the threading of the screws to avoid costly repairs. Different car brands use different types of screws, so finding the right size can be tricky, especially when changing your vehicle but keeping your private number plate registration.

Screw placement

When placing screws on a number plate, it is important to follow the regulations set by the DVLA, the governing body responsible for number plate laws in the UK. The law states that you cannot use screws to obscure the characters on a number plate, meaning that screws must be placed on the far left and right of the plate or in a space where they will not affect the display.

To secure your number plate with screws, first, remove the old number plate from your car. Then, measure out where to put the holes for the screws by placing the new number plate over the old one as a guide. Drill the holes in the back of the new number plate, ensuring they align with the correct spots on your vehicle.

When drilling the holes, it is important to use the correct drill bit size. For example, if you are using 3/4" screws, you will need to use a 4mm drill bit to create the holes. Once the holes are drilled, use the correct screws to tightly secure the number plate in place. It is recommended that you also use sticky pads and tape to further secure the number plate and ensure it is firmly attached.

The placement of the screws on the number plate is crucial to avoid obscuring the characters. Typically, number plates are secured using screws attached to the frame of the car. You can use nylon nuts and bolts as an alternative, but they are more prone to cracking or being damaged. As long as your screw placement does not obscure the number plate in any way, you will be compliant with the law.

Screw colours

When it comes to the colour of screws for number plates, it is recommended that you use yellow, white, or black screws. This is to avoid compromising your number plate, as the background on the front number plate must have black characters on a white background, and the back number plate must have black characters on a yellow background. The number plate also needs to be clear and reflective.

There are a variety of colours available for number plate screws, including yellow, black, white, and blue. These colours can be used to brighten up your number plates and are suitable for cars, motorcycles, caravans, trailers, and more. The colour of the screw is entirely arbitrary and up to the manufacturer, with no universal standard for screw colours.

For example, some screws are zinc or chromate coated, some have epoxy coatings, and some are colour-matched to the materials they are used with. The colour of the screw can also indicate different grades, strength, hardness, SAE vs metric, and threads/pitch.

When choosing a screw colour, it is important to check the box they came in to know if the coating is suitable for outdoor use or use in treated lumber. Using the wrong type of screw in treated lumber can cause issues, as the treatment can be highly corrosive to steel fasteners and aluminium.

Screw sizes

When it comes to screw sizes for number plates, it's important to note that the specific size and type of screw required can vary depending on the vehicle brand and model. Therefore, it is recommended to do your research and ensure you have the correct screw size for your vehicle to avoid damage.

The average screw size for a number plate is 1/4-14-3/4 inches, but it's important to measure the threading of the screws to ensure they match your vehicle's screw holes, as using the wrong size can result in costly repairs.

Eurofit offers number plate self-tapping screws in two sizes: 19mm and 24mm in length, with a diameter of 4.8mm. These screws are available in bags of 100 and come in colours such as white, black, yellow, and blue.

Laser Plates offer a number plate screw pack that includes eight 3/4-inch screws and hinged flip-top caps in various colours (white, yellow, black, and blue). These screws are designed to be simple to install using stainless steel self-tapping capabilities.

Halfords offers a range of number plate screws and caps in different colours, including black, blue, yellow, and white. They also provide self-drill screws with caps in these colours. Additionally, Halfords offers theft-resistant screws for added security.

Number plate fasteners are also available in various sizes, such as 18mm, 19mm, and 24mm, with self-tappers and hinged caps, domes, or cups. These fasteners can be purchased in different colours to match your vehicle's style.

It's important to note that the DVLA has specific regulations regarding the display of number plates and the use of screws. Screws should not obscure the characters on the number plate and should be placed on the far left and right or in spaces that do not affect the plate's display.

Screw types

When it comes to number plates, there are a variety of screw types and sizes to choose from, and the right choice depends on the vehicle's make and model. Here is a detailed guide to help you understand the different screw types available for number plates:

Standard vs Metric Screws

Number plate screws come in two main types: standard and metric. Standard screws are typically used for American vehicle brands like Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep. On the other hand, metric screws are designed for overseas brands such as Toyota, Honda, and Nissan.

Slotted Pan Head Screws

Slotted pan head screws are a popular choice for number plates due to their versatility and universal compatibility. They feature a flat head with a single slot, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. These screws are available in both standard and metric measurements, ensuring a perfect fit for any vehicle.

Duo-Drive Truss Head Screws

Duo-Drive Truss Head screws are known for their ease of use and security. They have a unique head design that allows for a secure fit and makes it difficult for the screw to loosen over time. This type of screw is an excellent choice for those seeking a durable and reliable solution.

Slotted Hex Washer Head Screws

Slotted Hex Washer Head screws offer both reliability and security. They feature a hexagonal head that provides a secure grip during installation and prevents the screw from slipping. These screws are available in both standard and metric measurements, typically with dimensions of 6mm x 20mm.

Slotted Hex Head Screws

Slotted Hex Head screws provide a secure fit with their slotted hex head design. They are typically sized #14 x 3/4" and are suitable for a wide range of vehicles. These screws offer a stable and reliable solution for mounting number plates.

Thumb Screws

Thumb screws, including American Thumb and Metric Thumb varieties, offer a quick and efficient solution with their user-friendly thumb screw design. They are designed for convenience and ease of use, making the process of mounting number plates faster and simpler.

Self-Tapping Screws

Self-tapping screws are designed with a special thread pattern that allows them to create their own threads as they are screwed into the mounting holes. This type of screw is convenient and provides a secure fit without the need for pre-drilled holes. They are commonly used for number plates and are available in various colours to match your vehicle.

Other Considerations

When choosing number plate screws, it is important to consider the colour, as this can impact the overall appearance of your vehicle. Yellow, white, and black screws are recommended to avoid compromising the clarity and reflectivity of the number plate. Additionally, ensure that the screws do not obscure the characters on the plate, as this is against the law in many places.

Screw alternatives

When it comes to securing your number plate, there are a few alternatives to using screws. These methods can be useful if you want to keep your number plate intact or if you prefer a different look. Here are some screw alternatives for number plates:

Sticky Pads

Sticky pads are a popular choice for those who want a quick, easy, and drill-free way to secure their number plates. These pads use a strong adhesive to attach the number plate to the bumper without the need for any modifications to the vehicle. While sticky pads are secure, they can be tricky to remove and may leave residue on the bumper. It's important to align the number plate properly before securing it with sticky pads.

Number Plate Holder

A number plate holder is a partial screw alternative that doesn't require drilling into the number plate itself. The holder acts as a casing for the number plate, providing durable protection. Number plate holders are available in different colours, such as chrome or black, and can be attached to the vehicle using screws. This method offers a good balance between preservation and security.

Brackets

Brackets are another option for securing number plates without screws. They allow you to quickly slide the number plate into the bracket, making it easy to remove for show plates. However, standard brackets may not provide enough security as plates can be easily slid in and out. Lipped brackets, on the other hand, frame the entire plate, making it more secure while still complying with DVLA regulations.

Nylon Nuts and Bolts

Nylon nuts and bolts can be used as an alternative to traditional metal screws. However, they are more prone to cracking or damage, so they may not provide the same level of durability as other methods.

It's important to note that regardless of the method chosen, the DVLA has strict rules about how number plates should be displayed. The positioning of screws, brackets, or other fixings should not obscure the characters on the number plate. The average number plate screw size is 1/4-14-3/4 inches, but it's important to check the specific requirements for your vehicle to avoid damage.

Frequently asked questions