If you just got new license plates or bought a used car without registration plates, they must be installed according to GOST R 50577-93 and Technical regulations of the Customs Union. Incorrect fastening can result in a fine of up to 5,000 rubles or even the removal of license plates by a traffic police inspector. The main mistake is the use of self-tapping screws without rubber gaskets, which leads to corrosion of the body under the fasteners after 1-2 years.
In this article we will analyze three officially approved methods of fastening (on bolts, frame, double-sided tape), suitable tools and nuances for different body types (sedan, hatchback, SUV). Let us dwell separately on European license plates with reduced size and temporary signs - special rules apply for them. If your car is imported (for example, Toyota RAV4 or Volkswagen Tiguan), check the presence of standard holes for fasteners - their absence will require drilling, which may void the warranty.
1. Preparation: what you will need to install the numbers
Before you screw on the number, make sure you have everything you need. The minimum set of tools depends on the mounting method, but the basic kit includes:
- 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (PH2 or PH3) or a screwdriver with torque adjustment (up to 5 Nm).
- 🔨 Drill with 3–4 mm drill bit (if there are no holes for fastening).
- 🧲 Magnetic holder for nuts (facilitates work in hard-to-reach places).
- 📏 Ruler or caliper for precise hole marking.
- 🧴 Anti-corrosion lubricant (for example, Molykote or WD-40 Specialist) for processing fasteners.
For bolt-on mounting you will additionally need:
- 🔩 Bolts M5×16–20 mm with countersunk head (4 pcs. for front number, 2 pcs. for rear number).
- 🟡 Rubber gaskets (diameter 10–12 mm, thickness 2–3 mm) - required to prevent corrosion.
- 🔄 Nuts with nylon insert (for vibration protection).
If your car has a plastic bumper (for example, Renault Duster or Hyundai Creta), use bolts with enlarged washer (diameter 16–20 mm) to distribute the load.
For mounting on a frame or tape:
- 🖼️ Plastic or metal frame with latches (suitable for standard size rooms 520x112 mm).
- 📜 Double-sided tape 3M VHB (thickness 1–2 mm, width 19–25 mm) - withstands up to 10 kg at break.
- 🧼 Surface cleaner (for example, Isopropanol) for degreasing the bumper.
2. Where to attach the number: GOST and traffic police requirements
The installation location of license plates is strictly regulated Appendix 1 to the Technical Regulations of the Vehicle:
- 📍 Front number should be located right in the direction of travel (for countries with right-hand traffic) at height at least 50 cm from the road.
- 📍 Rear number — in the center of the bumper or on the left (for countries with left-hand traffic), the height is the same.
- 🔄 Tilt angle should not exceed 30° from the vertical (checked visually by an inspector).
- 🚫 Prohibited cover the number with tuning elements, a tow bar or a spare wheel.
| Vehicle type | Recommended mounting location | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Sedan | On the bumper or radiator grille (front), on the trunk lid (rear) | Use extended bolts for the trunk (metal thickness up to 2 mm). |
| Hatchback/station wagon | On the back door or bumper | Check the gap between the number and the glass (minimum 10 mm). |
| SUV | On the bumper or additional frame | For Toyota Land Cruiser 200 or Nissan Patrol An adapter may be required. |
| Motorcycle/moped | On the rear wing | Mounted on a bracket with rubber bushings. |
For European license plates (size 340×200 mm or 305×155 mm) the same rules apply, but the mounting holes may not coincide with the standard ones. In this case use universal frame adapters or drill new holes with anti-corrosion treatment.
⚠️ Attention: If you set the number to xenon or LED backlight, make sure that the light does not shine on the signs - this is regarded as muting numbers (fine 5000 ₽ under Article 12.2 of the Code of Administrative Offenses).
3. Step-by-step instructions: how to bolt the number
This method is the most reliable and recommended for most cars. Follow the algorithm:
- Marking. Attach the number to the mounting location and mark the centers of the holes with a pencil or marker. For accuracy, use a ruler - the distance between the holes should be 112 mm horizontal and 52 mm vertical (for standard rooms).
- Drilling. Drill holes with a 3-4 mm drill. For plastic bumpers, use a plastic drill bit with a depth stop.
- Processing. Apply to the edges of holes anti-corrosion composition (for example, Zinkor) and stick on the rubber gaskets.
- Fasteners Insert the bolts from the inside of the bumper, put on the number, and secure with nuts with a nylon insert. Tighten without fanaticism - a force of 4–5 Nm is enough.
The holes are drilled smoothly and without burrs|Rubber gaskets are installed on both sides|The bolts are treated with anti-corrosion|The number does not block the backlight or emblem-->
For vehicles with aluminum body (for example, Jaguar XE or Audi A8) use stainless steel bolts and aluminum spacers - this will prevent galvanic corrosion.
4. Alternative mounting methods: frame and tape
If you don’t want to drill the body (for example, on a new car), you can use:
Method 1: Plastic or metal frame
Suitable for standard size rooms. The frame is attached to latches or bolts to the standard bumper holes. Benefits:
- ✅ Does not require drilling.
- ✅ Quick installation (10–15 minutes).
- ✅ Protects the number from chips.
Disadvantages: the frame can rattle on uneven surfaces (this can be solved with a foam pad). Popular frame models: HEKO, Bosal, Febi.
Method 2: Double-sided tape
Used for temporary license plates or vehicles with carbon bumper (for example, BMW M5). Algorithm:
- Clean the bumper surface degreaser.
- Apply the tape to the back of the number, after warming it with a hairdryer (improves adhesion).
- Press the number against the bumper and hold for 30–60 seconds.
⚠️ Attention: Scotch tape loses its stickiness at temperatures below -20°C and above +50°C. Do not use it for permanent installation in regions with sudden temperature changes.
What brands of tape are suitable for license plates?
For reliable fastening, choose adhesive tape with acrylic base and an adhesion index of at least 20 N/25 mm. Suitable options:
- 3M VHB 4910 (withstands up to 15 kg, temperature from -40°C to +90°C).
- Tesa Powerstrips (holds up to 5 kg per 10 cm², water resistant).
- Scotch Extreme Mounting Tape (for uneven surfaces).
Before purchasing, check compatibility with the bumper material (plastic, metal, carbon).
5. Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even experienced drivers make mistakes when setting license plates. Here are the most common:
- 🔧 Overtightened bolts. This deforms the number and leads to corrosion. Use a torque wrench (force 4–5 Nm).
- 💧 No gaskets. The metal of the license plate and the body form a galvanic couple, which accelerates rusting. Rubber or plastic gaskets solve the problem.
- 📏 Uneven fastening. If the number is set crookedly, the traffic police inspector may issue a fine for “unreadable signs.” Check the level with a building level.
- 🔦 Closing the backlight. Violates GOST requirements - the number must be readable in the dark at a distance of 20 meters.
Another typical problem is loss of nuts when driving off-road. To avoid this:
- Use nuts with nylon insert or growers.
- Apply to thread thread locker (for example, Loctite 243).
- Check the tightness every 5000 km.
6. Fines for incorrectly setting numbers
Violation of the rules for attaching license plates is punishable by Art. 12.2 Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation:
| Violation | Fine (2026) | Additional measures |
|---|---|---|
| Lack of numbers | 5000 ₽ or deprivation of rights for 1–3 months | Evacuation to impound lot |
| The rooms are covered with mud/snow | 500 ₽ (warning for first violation) | Clean-in-place requirement |
| Non-standard fasteners (wire, plastic ties) | 500–1000 ₽ | Demand to eliminate the violation |
| The numbers are not installed according to GOST (crooked, high, at an angle) | 500 ₽ | — |
Particular attention is paid temporary numbers (for transit). Their fastening must prevent the possibility of removal without damage - otherwise the inspector has the right to fine for “falsifying license plates” (fine up to 2,500 ₽).
If you are stopped for having an incorrect license plate, you have 10 days to eliminate the violation (Article 32.2 of the Administrative Code). During this period, the fine can be paid with a 50% discount.
7. Features for different car brands
Some cars have nuances in attaching license plates:
- 🚗 Lada Vesta/Grant: Standard holes for the front number are located on plastic bumper trim — use M5x20 mm bolts with an enlarged washer.
- 🚙 Kia Rio/Hyundai Solaris: The rear number is attached to trunk lid - drill holes with a diameter of 4 mm and process Movilem.
- 🚐 UAZ Patriot: Due to the high ground clearance, the front number is set to additional bracket (included with the car).
- 🏎️ Sportage 4th generation: Bumper has ribbed surface - use a frame with rubber feet.
For electric vehicles (for example, Tesla Model 3 or Nissan Leaf) the same rules apply, but attaching the rear number plate is often complicated by the location of the charging port. In this case, use flexible frames or consult a service center.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about setting up numbers
Is it possible to attach the license plate to tape if there are no drilling marks on the vehicle title?
Yes, this is acceptable, but only if the tape provides reliable fixation. However, the traffic police inspector may require a demonstration of the fastening - if the number is easy to remove by hand, this is regarded as a violation. For reliability, combine tape with plastic latches.
What to do if there are no holes for the number on the bumper?
You will have to drill the holes yourself. To do this:
- Apply markings according to the number template.
- Use a drill for metal (for steel bumpers) or plastic (for polymer ones).
- Finish the edges of the holes anticorrosive and stick on the O-rings.
If the car is under warranty, drilling may void it - check with the dealership.
Is it possible to use self-tapping screws instead of bolts?
No, it violates GOST R 50577-93. Self-tapping screws do not provide reliable fixation and damage the paintwork. Allowed only bolts with nuts or standard latches.
How to attach a Euro license plate to a domestic car?
For euro numbers (for example, German sample) you will need:
- Adapter frame with holes for standard fasteners.
- Or drilling new holes taking into account the size of the euro number (340x200 mm).
Make sure the number is not blocking reversing lights or warning triangle.
What happens if I lose the number plate nut?
Losing one nut is not a violation, but if the number is loose, the inspector may issue a ticket for “malfunction.” Replace the nut with a new one with a nylon insert and check the tightness of the remaining fasteners.