4 Ways To Install A Front License Plate - WikiHow

Home » How To Install Front License Plate » 4 Ways To Install A Front License Plate - WikiHow

Maybe your like

Skip to ContentQuizzes
  • Home
  • Random
  • Browse Articles
  • Quizzes & Games
  • All QuizzesHot
  • Love Quizzes
  • Personality Quizzes
  • Fun Games
  • Dating Simulator
  • Learn Something New
  • Forums
  • Courses
  • Happiness Hub
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Install a Front License Plate PDF download Download Article Co-authored by Audra Fordin

Last Updated: February 24, 2025 Fact Checked

PDF download Download Article
  • Using an Existing License Plate Bracket
    • |
  • Using an Adhesive-Mounted Bracket
    • |
  • Installing a Tow Hook Bracket
    • |
  • Drilling Holes into the Front Bumper
    • |
  • Video
    • |
  • Expert Q&A
|Show more |Show less X

This article was co-authored by Audra Fordin. Audra Fordin is a Certified Automotive Technician, the Founder of Women Auto Know, and the Owner of Great Bear Auto Repair in Flushing, New York. With more than 38 years of experience, she has intensive knowledge about foreign and domestic auto repairs. Audra has been featured on numerous news and talk shows such as The Today Show, Inside Edition, and Anderson Cooper. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 526,013 times.

Some states require front license plates, but not all vehicle makes and models have front license plate brackets. If you do have a front bracket, just screw your license plate onto it. If you don’t, there are still easy options available. You could try an adhesive-mounted bracket or a bracket designed for the shape of your specific model’s bumper. There are also brackets that fit into the tow hook anchor located on the front bumper of many newer models. If you don’t mind drilling holes into your bumper, you could always just install your license plate the old fashioned way.

Things You Should Know

  • Install a plate into a bracket by unscrewing the four corner screws, lining up the plate, and then screwing new screws into the existing holes.
  • If you're missing a bracket, press on an adhesive bracket or install a tow hook bracket by screwing your plate into the tow hook stud.
  • Or, screw a new bracket into your car's metal bumper by drilling 1⁄8 inch (0.32 cm) pilot holes and fastening your bracket into them.

Steps

Method 1 Method 1 of 4:

Using an Existing License Plate Bracket

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Remove the screws in the bracket that secure the license plate. 1 Remove the screws in the bracket that secure the license plate. Locate screws at the corners of the license plate bracket on your front bumper.[1] Turn them counterclockwise with a screwdriver to remove them, then keep them in a safe place so they don’t get lost. If the bracket held an old license plate, it’ll come off when you remove the screws.[2]
    • If your vehicle is new, the license plate bracket screws might be in the glove compartment.
    • If you have no screws, you can pick up some license plate screws at a nearby hardware or automotive store.
  2. Step 2 Check for a license plate frame. 2 Check for a license plate frame. Some license plate brackets have a screw-mounted frame that fits over the license plate.[3] If your bracket has a frame, just remember to align it over your license plate and insert screws through both during installation.
    • You’ll know you have a license plate frame if a separate rectangular piece comes off when you remove the bracket’s screws.
    Advertisement
  3. Step 3 Align the license plate with the holes in the bracket. 3 Align the license plate with the holes in the bracket. Locate the holes in the corners of the license plate and the bracket. Place the license plate into the bracket so the holes are aligned.[4]
    • If your bracket includes a frame that fits over the license plate, line its holes up with those in the plate and bracket.[5]
  4. Step 4 Drive the screws to secure the license plate. 4 Drive the screws to secure the license plate. Insert your screws through the holes in the bracket and license plate (and frame, if applicable). Tighten the screws by turning them clockwise with your screwdriver to complete installation.[6]
    5. Advertisement
Method 2 Method 2 of 4:

Using an Adhesive-Mounted Bracket

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Purchase a mounting bracket that fits your make and model. 1 Purchase a mounting bracket that fits your make and model. Look online or visit your local automotive store for a no-drill mounting bracket that fits your car’s make and model.
    • Many no-drill brackets use a strong adhesive and fit a variety of makes and models. Some brackets fit only a specific model and include special hardware to clamp the bracket onto the grill or bumper. Check your product manual for specific installation instructions.[7]
  2. Step 2 Clean the mounting site on your bumper with alcohol wipes. 2 Clean the mounting site on your bumper with alcohol wipes. An adhesive-mounted bracket requires a clean installation site. Locate the center of your bumper where you’ll mount the bracket, clean it with alcohol wipes, then let it air dry or dry it with a clean microfiber cloth.[8]
    • Some brackets attach to the front face of the bumper, while others stick to indentations or gaps unique to specific models. Check your installation instructions for details about the mounting location.
  3. Step 3 Test the fit without removing the protective film. 3 Test the fit without removing the protective film. The adhesive is protected by a film, which you should leave in place while you test the fit. Place the bracket onto the mounting site to make sure it fits and matches your model.[9]
    • If it doesn’t line up with your car’s bumper, you might have accidentally bought the wrong kind of bracket. See if you can exchange it for the correct bracket.
  4. Step 4 Remove the protective film and press the bracket to the bumper. 4 Remove the protective film and press the bracket to the bumper. After you’ve double checked your bracket’s fit, peel back the protective film to expose the adhesive. Press the bracket firmly onto the bumper’s front face, underside, or other mounting site specified in your product’s instructions.[10]
    • Try to be precise when you mount the bracket, since you'll only get one shot.
  5. Step 5 Screw the license plate onto the bracket. 5 Screw the license plate onto the bracket. Once the bracket is in place, you can align its holes with the holes in your license plate. If your product includes a license plate frame, place it over the license plate and align its holes with those in the bracket and plate. Drive the screws clockwise through the holes to complete installation.[11]
    6. Advertisement
Method 3 Method 3 of 4:

Installing a Tow Hook Bracket

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Locate and remove the plastic panel that covers the tow hook anchor. 1 Locate and remove the plastic panel that covers the tow hook anchor. Many models have a plastic plate in the front bumper that you can press and pop out. It conceals a tow hook anchor, and license plate brackets are available with a threaded stud that drives into the anchor.[12]
    • Make sure you have a tow hook anchor before you purchase a tow hook license plate bracket kit.
  2. Step 2 Screw in your kit’s tow hook stud. 2 Screw in your kit’s tow hook stud. Grab the tow hook stud included in your kit and insert the threaded end into the anchor slot. Turn it clockwise until it’s tight.[13]
  3. Step 3 Drive the bolt through the holes in the bracket and tow hook stud. 3 Drive the bolt through the holes in the bracket and tow hook stud. Align the hole in the bracket plate with the hole in the tow hook stud. Your kit includes a bolt that fits through these holes. Locate it and drive it through the holes to attach the bracket plate to the tow hook stud.[14]
    • Turn the bolt clockwise with your fingers to get it started, then use a ratchet to finish tightening it.
  4. Step 4 Attach the license plate to the bracket. 4 Attach the license plate to the bracket. With the bracket in place, all that’s left is to screw on the license plate. If your product includes a license plate frame, remember to place it over the plate and drive the screws clockwise through both the plate and the frame.[15]
    5. Advertisement
Method 4 Method 4 of 4:

Drilling Holes into the Front Bumper

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Check if you have a fiberglass or metal bumper. 1 Check if you have a fiberglass or metal bumper. Drilling into metal is more complicated than drilling into fiberglass. If you have a chrome bumper, you might want to try a no-drill method if you've never drilled into metal.
    • If you do want to try drilling into a chrome bumper, you'll need to take a few more steps and use special tools. You'll need a center punch, a bit made for drilling into metal, a countersink bit, and safety glasses.[16]
  2. Step 2 Align the license plate bracket with the center of your front bumper. 2 Align the license plate bracket with the center of your front bumper. Use a measuring tape to measure your bumper’s length so you can find the exact center. Mark the lengthwise center with tape or a felt-tip pen, then measure the bumper’s height to find that center point. Once you’ve found the bumper’s exact center point, place your license plate bracket over it.[17]
    • If you’re not using a bracket, just place the license plate itself onto the bumper.
  3. Step 3 Make guide marks through the holes in the bracket. 3 Make guide marks through the holes in the bracket. Hold your license plate bracket over the bumper’s center point and locate the pre-drilled mounting holes. Use a felt-tip pen to mark where you’ll need to drill holes into your bumper to line up with the bracket’s holes.[18]
    • Keep in mind the bracket’s mounting holes are where it mounts to the bumper, not the holes at the corners that you’ll use to screw on the license plate.
    • If you’re not using a bracket, just make marks on the bumper for the holes at the plate’s top corners.
  4. Step 4 Drill 1⁄8 inch (0.32 cm) pilot holes into the bumper. 4 Drill 1⁄8 inch (0.32 cm) pilot holes into the bumper. After you’ve marked your guide holes, set the bracket or license plate aside. Use a power drill and a 1⁄8 inch (0.32 cm) bit to drill shallow pilot holes into the bumper. Drill your pilot holes only about 1⁄8 inch (0.32 cm) deep into the bumper.[19]
    • If your bumper is chrome, you'll need to start your holes with a center punch before you can start drilling.
  5. Step 5 Use a center punch and a special drill bit for chrome bumpers. 5 Use a center punch and a special drill bit for chrome bumpers. After marking the spots on the chrome where you'll need to drill, hammer your center punch into the spots to make indentations. It's wise to add lubricating oil to the indentations to reduce friction and heat. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.[20]
    • Placing masking or duct tape around the spot where you're drilling can help protect the chrome finish if your bit slips.
    • Hold your drill (with a bit made for drilling into metal) perfectly perpendicular to the surface. Use firm, steady pressure to drill into the chrome.
    • After you drill the holes, switch to a countersink bit and rotate it 3 to 4 revolutions to smooth sharp metal burrs from the hole's leading edge.
  6. Step 6 Mount the bracket to the bumper. 6 Mount the bracket to the bumper. Line the bracket’s mounting holes up with those you’ve just drilled into the bumper. Drive screws clockwise through the bracket into the bumper.[21]
  7. Step 7 Screw the license plate onto the bracket. 7 Screw the license plate onto the bracket. After mounting the bracket, line the holes at the corners of the license plate with those at the bracket’s corners. Drive screws clockwise through the holes to secure the license plate and complete installation.[22]
    • If you’re not using a bracket, screw the license plate directly onto the bumper.
    8. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search Add New Question
  • Question Do you really need a license plate frame? Audra Fordin Audra Fordin Certified Automotive Technician Audra Fordin is a Certified Automotive Technician, the Founder of Women Auto Know, and the Owner of Great Bear Auto Repair in Flushing, New York. With more than 38 years of experience, she has intensive knowledge about foreign and domestic auto repairs. Audra has been featured on numerous news and talk shows such as The Today Show, Inside Edition, and Anderson Cooper. Audra Fordin Audra Fordin Certified Automotive Technician Expert Answer Definitely! The license plate frame helps mount the license plate directly onto the bumper of your car. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 12 Helpful 7
  • Question If I screw the license plate directly into my bumper, do I need to worry about rust? If so, is there a way to prevent rust? Community Answer Community Answer Put four appropriately-sized washers into fingernail polish and let dry. Once done drying, put behind the license plate on the screw. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 21 Helpful 14
  • Question Where do you get a license plate bracket for a 2019 Nissan rogue? Jared Chamberlain Jared Chamberlain Community Answer There are many websites to buy license plate brackets for any vehicle if you want to take out the middle man. Otherwise, you can go to almost any auto parts store such as Napa auto parts, Auto Zone, and Advanced Auto Parts and have them order a specific kind for your vehicle. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 2
Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Video

Tips

Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

You Might Also Like

Fit a Tow Bar to Your CarHow toFit a Tow Bar to Your Car Install Fender FlaresHow toInstall Fender Flares Remove a License PlateHow toRemove a License Plate Install Laminate CountertopsHow to Install Laminate Countertops Yourself Install a No Drill Mud FlapHow toInstall a No Drill Mud Flap Change the Tag Lights in a VehicleHow toChange the Tag Lights in a Vehicle Install a Rear View CameraHow toInstall a Rear View Camera Keep Car Mats in PlaceHow toKeep Car Mats in Place Hang GlassHow toHang Glass Hang Something on BrickHow toHang Something on Brick Change Your License PlateHow toChange Your License Plate Install a Hook in the WallHow toInstall a Hook in the Wall Drill Into BrickHow to Drill Into Brick: Preparation, Tools, and Best Methods Glue on a Rear View MirrorHow toGlue on a Rear View Mirror Advertisement

References

  1. ↑ Audra Fordin. Certified Automotive Technician. Expert Interview
  2. ↑ https://driving-tests.org/beginner-drivers/how-to-install-a-license-plate/
  3. ↑ Audra Fordin. Certified Automotive Technician. Expert Interview
  4. ↑ https://driving-tests.org/beginner-drivers/how-to-install-a-license-plate/
  5. ↑ Audra Fordin. Certified Automotive Technician. Expert Interview
  6. ↑ https://driving-tests.org/beginner-drivers/how-to-install-a-license-plate/
  7. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mzI7jBWrsQ&feature=youtu.be&t=103
  8. ↑ https://www.corvetteforum.com/how-tos/a/corvette-how-to-install-front-license-plate-bracket-368445
  9. ↑ https://www.corvetteforum.com/how-tos/a/corvette-how-to-install-front-license-plate-bracket-368445
More References (13)
  1. ↑ https://www.corvetteforum.com/how-tos/a/corvette-how-to-install-front-license-plate-bracket-368445
  2. ↑ https://www.corvetteforum.com/how-tos/a/corvette-how-to-install-front-license-plate-bracket-368445
  3. ↑ http://www.slate.com/blogs/browbeat/2013/09/05/loading_eye_bolts_what_they_are_and_what_they_do_explained_photos.html
  4. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNbl_OMoWqI&feature=youtu.be&t=75
  5. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNbl_OMoWqI&feature=youtu.be&t=83
  6. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNbl_OMoWqI&feature=youtu.be&t=98
  7. ↑ https://www.ridetheducks.com/how-to-drill-hole-in-fiberglass/
  8. ↑ https://wsdot.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2022-05/Toll-Instructions-LicensePlatePassInstallation.pdf
  9. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5biIBcMnexE&feature=youtu.be&t=3
  10. ↑ https://itstillruns.com/install-front-license-plate-bracket-7533048.html
  11. ↑ https://itstillruns.com/drill-chrome-8638277.html
  12. ↑ https://itstillruns.com/install-front-license-plate-bracket-7533048.html
  13. ↑ https://itstillruns.com/install-front-license-plate-bracket-7533048.html

About This Article

Audra Fordin Co-authored by: Audra Fordin Certified Automotive Technician This article was co-authored by Audra Fordin. Audra Fordin is a Certified Automotive Technician, the Founder of Women Auto Know, and the Owner of Great Bear Auto Repair in Flushing, New York. With more than 38 years of experience, she has intensive knowledge about foreign and domestic auto repairs. Audra has been featured on numerous news and talk shows such as The Today Show, Inside Edition, and Anderson Cooper. This article has been viewed 526,013 times. 20 votes - 65% Co-authors: 4 Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 526,013 Categories: Car Identification and Registration Article SummaryX

To install a front license plate on a car with an existing license plate bracket, use a screwdriver to remove the 4 corner screws that hold the license plate in place. If there is a frame, you should be able to easily pull it off once you remove the screws. Align the license plate with the holes in the bracket, then align the frame as well, if there is one. Replace the screws and tighten them with the screwdriver to secure the license plate. Keep reading to learn how to install a front license plate with an adhesive-mounted bracket! Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languages Spanish French
  • Print
  • Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 526,013 times.

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Audra Fordin Co-authored by: Audra Fordin Certified Automotive Technician 20 votes - 65% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 4 Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 526,013

Quizzes & Games

Bumper Sticker GeneratorBumper Sticker GeneratorGenerateTraffic Signs TestTraffic Signs TestTake QuizWhat Makeup Should I Wear QuizWhat Makeup Should I Wear QuizTake QuizWhat Piercing Should I Get QuizWhat Piercing Should I Get QuizTake QuizGrammar TestGrammar TestTake QuizWhat Does My Crush Think of Me QuizWhat Does My Crush Think of Me QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

Fit a Tow Bar to Your CarHow toFit a Tow Bar to Your CarInstall Fender FlaresHow toInstall Fender FlaresRemove a License PlateHow toRemove a License PlateInstall Laminate CountertopsHow to Install Laminate Countertops Yourself

Featured Articles

What Does It Mean If Someone Tries to Kill You in Your Dream?What Does It Mean If Someone Tries to Kill You in Your Dream?200+ Best Questions to Ask Someone You Like (Texting & IRL)200+ Best Questions to Ask Someone You Like (Texting & IRL)How Beautiful Am I QuizHow Beautiful Am I Quiz13 Types of Hairlines for Men and Women (And How to Maintain Yours)13 Types of Hairlines for Men and Women (And How to Maintain Yours)Which of the 8 Face Shapes Do You Have? Helpful Tips & Style GuidanceWhich of the 8 Face Shapes Do You Have? Helpful Tips & Style GuidanceMental Illness TestMental Illness Test

Trending Articles

Let Us Rate You 1-10: Attractiveness Scale QuizLet Us Rate You 1-10: Attractiveness Scale QuizCan We Guess If You're Single or Taken?Can We Guess If You're Single or Taken?Make OutHow toMake OutAm I a Gigachad or Totally Chopped?Am I a Gigachad or Totally Chopped?How Rare Is My Birthday QuizHow Rare Is My Birthday QuizHow Nonchalant Am I QuizHow Nonchalant Am I Quiz

Featured Articles

Enjoy the HolidaysHow toEnjoy the Holidays Get 250 Grams of Protein Daily: Best Foods, Meal Plans & MoreHow to Get 250 Grams of Protein Daily: Best Foods, Meal Plans & MoreAm I Girly QuizAm I Girly Quiz200 Fun, Flirty, & Deep Questions to Get to Know a Guy Better200 Fun, Flirty, & Deep Questions to Get to Know a Guy Better Tighten Skin Under Your Chin: Natural or Surgical OptionsHow to Tighten Skin Under Your Chin: Natural or Surgical OptionsWhat Would My Nickname Be QuizWhat Would My Nickname Be Quiz

Featured Articles

21 Common Hand Signs & Gestures (& What They Mean)21 Common Hand Signs & Gestures (& What They Mean)170+ Best Useless Facts That Sound Like Lies170+ Best Useless Facts That Sound Like LiesIs He Interested In Me QuizIs He Interested In Me Quiz15 Signs Your Ex Misses You (and What to Do About It)15 Signs Your Ex Misses You (and What to Do About It) Observe Hanukkah (From Candle Lighting to Latke Frying)How to Observe Hanukkah (From Candle Lighting to Latke Frying)165+ "You Are Special" Quotes For Friends, Family, Partners & More165+ "You Are Special" Quotes For Friends, Family, Partners & More

Watch Articles

Wrap a Round GiftHow toWrap a Round GiftSteam in an OvenHow toSteam in an Oven Make Plant-Based Meat: 4 Incredible RecipesHow to Make Plant-Based Meat: 4 Incredible RecipesClean a Silver NecklaceHow toClean a Silver Necklace4 Easy Ways to Open a Can of Soda4 Easy Ways to Open a Can of SodaPart Your HairHow toPart Your Hair

Trending Articles

180 Good Comebacks & Savage Roasts to Win Any Argument180 Good Comebacks & Savage Roasts to Win Any ArgumentAm I a Furry QuizAm I a Furry QuizHave I Met My Soulmate Yet QuizHave I Met My Soulmate Yet QuizRandom Fortune GeneratorRandom Fortune GeneratorWhat Should My Name Really Be QuizWhat Should My Name Really Be QuizWhat Are the Gay Male Body Types (And Which Do You Have?)What Are the Gay Male Body Types (And Which Do You Have?)

Quizzes & Games

Will I Get Together With My Crush QuizWill I Get Together With My Crush QuizTake QuizThe Impossible QuizThe Impossible QuizTake QuizAm I Good at Flirting QuizAm I Good at Flirting QuizTake QuizWhat Is My Face Shape QuizWhat Is My Face Shape QuizTake QuizAm I Funny QuizAm I Funny QuizTake QuizWhat Is My Type of Girl QuizWhat Is My Type of Girl QuizTake Quiz wikiHow
  • Categories
  • Cars & Other Vehicles
  • Cars
  • Car Identification and Registration
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
  • Home
  • About wikiHow
  • Experts
  • Jobs
  • Contact Us
  • Site Map
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info
  • Contribute

Follow Us

×

Don’t miss out! Sign up for

wikiHow’s newsletter

Subscribe You're all set! X --660

Tag » How To Install Front License Plate