Screws and caps
Best for existing holes
A secure, removable fixing that works well when the vehicle already has suitable screw points or a mounting bracket.
Help centre · Fitting guide
How to fit your number plates
Follow the screw-and-cap method for a traditional mechanical fixing, or use automotive adhesive tape for a clean, drill-free finish.
Automotive tape
Best for a flat, clean finish
No visible fixings and no holes in the plate, but the surface preparation and tape quality are critical.
Method one
Fitting with screws and colour-matched caps
You will normally need a screwdriver, masking tape, a marker, a drill with a sharp plastic-suitable bit, scrap wood, suitable screws and white or yellow screw caps.
- 1
Remove the old plate
Support the plate while removing the existing screws. Keep any reusable brackets or fixings, then clean the mounting area.
- 2
Use the old plate as a template
Place the old plate over the new one, align the outside edges and mark the existing hole positions.
- 3
Support and drill the plate
Leave the protective film in place, place the new plate face-up on a flat piece of scrap wood and use masking tape over each mark. Drill slowly with a sharp bit suitable for plastic, using a hole just large enough for the screw shank. Do not force the drill.
- 4
Position the plate
Offer the plate to the vehicle and start each screw loosely. Check that the plate is centred, level and sitting flat before tightening anything.
- 5
Tighten gently and fit the caps
Tighten only until the plate is secure. Over-tightening can crack acrylic or distort the plate. Finish with white caps on the front plate and yellow caps on the rear plate.
Important: before making a new hole in the vehicle, confirm what is behind the bumper or panel. Reusing suitable factory holes is safer than drilling new bodywork.
Method two
Fitting with automotive adhesive tape
You will need automotive-grade number plate tape, isopropyl alcohol, clean lint-free cloths, a plastic scraper and low-tack masking tape for alignment.
- 1
Check the mounting surface
Tape works best on a flat, smooth and solid mounting area. If the surface is heavily curved, textured, damaged or flexible, use the existing screw points or a suitable mounting bracket instead.
- 2
Remove old adhesive
Take off the old plate and remove every trace of foam, tape and adhesive. A plastic scraper and a paint-safe adhesive remover can help. Never stick new tape over old residue.
- 3
Clean and dry both surfaces
Wash the mounting area, dry it fully and finish with isopropyl alcohol on a clean, lint-free cloth. The back of the plate must also be clean, dry and free from wax, polish, silicone or grease.
- 4
Apply automotive plate tape
Use automotive-grade double-sided number plate tape. Apply several evenly spaced strips to the back of the plate, keeping them away from the outer edge. Press the tape firmly onto the plate before removing the vehicle-side liners.
- 5
Test the position first
Hold the plate in place without exposing the adhesive and mark the centre and level with low-tack masking tape. Once the liners are removed, repositioning may damage the tape.
- 6
Bond the plate
Make sure the plate and mounting surface are completely clean and dry. Fit the plate using your guide marks and press firmly across every taped area for at least 30 seconds. In cold conditions, warm the tape with a heat gun on its lowest setting or a hairdryer, keeping it at least 20cm away from paintwork and plastic.
Make sure both surfaces are clean and dry. In cold conditions, a heat gun on its lowest setting or a hairdryer can help warm the tape and increase adhesion. Keep it at least 20cm away from paintwork and plastic.
Final check
Before driving, check all five points
01
Plate is level
02
Plate is centred
03
Nothing is obscured
04
All edges are secure
05
Fixings are not over-tightened
The plate must remain securely fixed, clearly visible and readable. Check it again after the first journey and periodically afterwards, especially if adhesive tape was used.
Common fitting questions
Which fitting method should I choose?
Use suitable existing screw points when the mounting area is curved, textured or supported by a bracket. Automotive tape is ideal for a smooth, flat and properly prepared surface. If either method feels insecure, arrange professional fitting.
Can I reuse old adhesive tape?
No. Remove all old tape and residue, then clean and dry the surfaces before applying fresh automotive-grade tape.
How do I remove a tape-fitted plate?
Warm the adhesive gently and work behind the plate with strong fishing line or dental floss, taking care not to damage paint or trim. Remove the remaining adhesive with a product confirmed as safe for the vehicle surface.
Prefer us to fit them?
Contact us to arrange fitting before travelling. We will confirm availability and what you need to bring.