What Is a License Plate?

A license plate (also number plate, registration plate, car tag) is a metal or plastic plate attached to a vehicle for official identification. It displays a unique alphanumeric code linking the vehicle to its registered owner.

Key Functions

• Identification: Enables law enforcement to ID vehicles/owners quickly.
• Registration Proof: Shows the vehicle is legally registered (fees paid, inspected).
• Taxation: Fees often based on vehicle type/value.
• Security: Deters theft; some plates have anti-counterfeit features.

Global Variations

Design, size, color, and issuing authority (national vs. regional) vary worldwide. First plates: France (1890s), US (1901). Personalized plates are common in many jurisdictions.