Number plate lights are replaceable bulbs mounted behind or around your license plate

Number plate lights illuminate your license plate so it's visible at night. They're usually small bulbs housed in fixtures mounted on or near your rear bumper, one on each side of the plate. Most cars have them, and they're a legal requirement in most places — a burned-out bulb can result in a traffic stop.

Replacing them is a straightforward task that takes 10 to 30 minutes and requires no special tools beyond what most people have at home. You don't need a mechanic. The process varies slightly depending on your vehicle's make and model, but the basic steps are the same: locate the fixture, remove the old bulb, and install a new one.

Key Takeaways

  • Number plate light bulbs typically cost $5 to $15 each and are available at auto parts stores, hardware stores, and online retailers.
  • You'll need to know your vehicle's year, make, and model to buy the correct bulb type — common types include 194, 168, and W5W.
  • Most fixtures twist out from behind the plate or pop out from the bumper; check your owner's manual for the exact method for your car.
  • The job requires only basic hand tools like a screwdriver or socket wrench, and takes less than 30 minutes per side.

Locate the number plate light fixtures on your vehicle

Number plate lights are mounted on the rear of your car, typically one fixture on each side of the license plate. On most vehicles, they're built into the bumper or mounted on a bracket just above or below the plate. Some cars have a single fixture centered above the plate instead.

Open your trunk or hatchback and look at the inside of the rear bumper area. You should see the fixture from behind — it will look like a small plastic housing with a lens. If you can't locate it from inside, walk around to the back of the car at night with the lights on and look for which fixture is glowing. Once you've found it, you're ready to remove it.

Remove the fixture from the bumper or mounting bracket

The method depends on how your fixture is mounted. Most commonly, the entire fixture twists counterclockwise and pulls out from the bumper. Some fixtures are held in with a single screw or bolt that you remove with a screwdriver or socket wrench. A few are held in with a clip that you press or pry to release.

Check your owner's manual first — it will show the exact removal method for your vehicle. If you don't have the manual, search online for "[your year, make, model] number plate light removal" and you'll usually find a video or forum post showing the process. Once the fixture is loose, gently pull it toward you until it comes free. Be careful not to crack the plastic lens.

Identify the correct bulb type for your vehicle

Once the fixture is out, you'll see the bulb inside. It's usually a small, round bulb with a metal base. Common types include 194, 168, W5W, and 501. The bulb type is often printed on the fixture itself or on the bulb. If not, check your owner's manual or search online for your vehicle's specifications.

Take a photo of the bulb or write down the type number, then go to an auto parts store or order online. Bulbs cost $5 to $15 each, depending on the type and brand. You can buy a single bulb or a pack of two. LED bulbs are available and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, though they cost more upfront.

Remove the old bulb and install the new one

The bulb sits in a socket inside the fixture. Depending on the type, you either pull it straight out or twist it counterclockwise to release it. Most number plate bulbs pull straight out — grasp the bulb gently and pull toward you. If it doesn't come free easily, try twisting it slightly as you pull.

Once the old bulb is out, insert the new bulb into the socket. Push it in straight until you feel it seat, or twist it clockwise if it's a twist-in type. Don't force it — if it doesn't go in smoothly, you may have the wrong bulb type. Double-check the number on the bulb against what you looked up for your vehicle.

Reinstall the fixture and test the lights

Push the fixture back into the bumper or mounting bracket. If it twists in, turn it clockwise until it's snug. If it's held with a screw or bolt, reinstall and tighten it. Don't over-tighten — you can crack the plastic housing. The fixture should sit flush with the bumper with no gaps.

Close your trunk and turn on your headlights. Walk around to the back of the car and check that the number plate light is now on. If it's not, the bulb may not be seated properly — open the trunk again and reseat it. If you've replaced both sides and one still doesn't work, the socket itself may be damaged and you'll need to replace the entire fixture, which usually costs $20 to $50 and requires the same removal process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any bulb type, or does it have to match my car's original?

You need to use the correct type for your vehicle. Using the wrong bulb can cause it to be too bright, too dim, or not fit in the socket at all. Your owner's manual or an auto parts store can confirm the right type for your car.

What if the fixture won't twist out or come loose?

Stop and check your owner's manual — you may be twisting the wrong direction or the fixture may be held with a screw instead. If you force it, you can crack the plastic. A video for your specific vehicle model will show the correct method.

Do I need to replace both bulbs at the same time?

No, you only need to replace the one that's burned out. However, if one bulb is old, the other is likely to burn out soon, so many people replace both at once to avoid a second trip.

Is it safe to drive with a burned-out number plate light?

No. A burned-out light is illegal in most places and can result in a traffic stop and fine. It also makes your plate harder to read at night, which is a safety issue. Replace it as soon as you notice it's out.

What's the difference between LED and incandescent number plate bulbs?

LED bulbs last much longer (50,000+ hours versus 1,000 hours) and use less power, but cost more upfront ($10 to $20 versus $5 to $10). Both types work in standard number plate fixtures. LED is worth it if you plan to keep the car long-term.