Getting your new registration in the mail is a great feeling, but the job isn’t done until those identifiers are securely mounted. Whether you are a new driver or a seasoned off-roader, knowing how to put tags on car setups properly is essential for staying legal and avoiding fines.
In this guide, we will walk you through the entire process, from removing rusted hardware to applying decals that won’t peel off in the car wash. We promise to provide the practical steps and pro tips you need to ensure your plates stay put, even on the roughest trails.
We will cover the tools you need, the best way to prep your bumper surface, and how to protect your tags from theft and vibration. By the end of this article, you will have the confidence to handle this quick DIY task like a professional mechanic.
Essential Tools and Materials for the Job
Before you head out to the driveway, you need to gather a few basic tools to make the process smooth. Most modern vehicles use standard hardware, but older rigs or imports might require something specific.
You will typically need a Phillips-head screwdriver or a flathead screwdriver, depending on the screws currently holding your plates. Some trucks and SUVs use 10mm bolts, so having a small socket wrench set nearby is a smart move.
For the cleaning phase, grab some isopropyl alcohol and a clean microfiber cloth. If you are dealing with an older vehicle, a can of penetrating oil like WD-40 or PB Blaster is invaluable for loosening stuck fasteners that have seen too much road salt.
If you want to go the extra mile, consider purchasing a set of stainless steel screws. These resist corrosion much better than the cheap zinc-plated ones that come from the dealership, ensuring you can remove the plate easily next year.
Recommended Supplies List
- Phillips and Flathead screwdrivers
- 10mm socket and ratchet (common for many brands)
- Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher)
- Microfiber towels
- Penetrating oil for rusted bolts
- Replacement stainless steel hardware
- Silicone or rubber license plate frame (optional)
How to put tags on car: A Step-by-Step Installation
The process of mounting your license plates is straightforward, but doing it correctly prevents rattling and lost hardware. Follow these steps to ensure a secure fit that lasts through every season.
First, remove your old license plates by unscrewing the fasteners in a counter-clockwise direction. If the screws feel tight, do not force them immediately, as you could strip the threads or snap the bolt head off.
Apply a small amount of penetrating oil and let it sit for five minutes before trying again. Once the old plate is off, use your microfiber cloth and cleaner to wipe down the mounting area on the bumper or tailgate.
Align your new plate with the pre-drilled holes in the vehicle’s bracket. Insert the screws by hand first to ensure they are threading correctly and not cross-threading, which can ruin the plastic inserts.
Tighten the screws until they are snug, but avoid over-tightening. If you are using a license plate frame, make sure it does not cover the state name or the registration stickers, as this can lead to a “fix-it” ticket.
Dealing with Plastic Inserts
Many modern cars use plastic “nuts” or inserts that snap into the bumper. Over time, these can become brittle or stripped out from repeated use.
If your screw keeps spinning without tightening, you likely need to replace the insert. These are inexpensive and can be found at any automotive parts store in the hardware aisle.
Simply pop the old insert out with a flathead screwdriver and snap the new one in. This small fix ensures your plate won’t vibrate loose while you are driving at highway speeds.
Applying Registration Decals and Stickers Correcty
In many regions, “tags” refers specifically to the small adhesive decals that show your registration is current. Applying these over layers of old stickers is a common mistake that leads to peeling and theft.
Start by cleaning the corner of the license plate where the tag belongs. Use your alcohol prep pad to remove all grease, wax, and road grime from the surface.
If you have a thick stack of old stickers, it is best to scrape them off using a razor blade or a plastic scraper. A flat, clean surface provides the maximum adhesion for the new decal.
Carefully peel the backing off the new tag and center it within the designated box on the plate. Press firmly from the center outward to eliminate air bubbles and ensure the edges are sealed tight.
Pro Tip: The “X” Cut Security Method
License plate sticker theft is a real issue in many cities. Thieves will try to peel off valid tags to put on unregistered vehicles.
Once your sticker is applied and the adhesive has set for a minute, use a sharp utility knife to lightly score an “X” across the face of the sticker. Do not cut into the metal plate itself.
This ensures that if someone tries to peel the sticker off, it will come away in small, useless chunks rather than one whole piece. This simple trick is a huge deterrent for criminals.
Troubleshooting Common Hardware Problems
Sometimes, figuring out how to put tags on car brackets becomes a nightmare because of rust. This is especially true for those of us who enjoy winter driving or mudding.
If a bolt snaps off inside the mounting hole, you may need to use a drill and a small bolt extractor. Alternatively, many DIYers choose to relocate the plate slightly using self-tapping screws if the original bracket is beyond repair.
For plates that rattle against the trunk lid every time you close it, consider adding foam tape or a silicone license plate sleeve. These act as dampers to absorb vibrations and protect your paint from scratches.
If you find that your front bumper doesn’t have holes but your state requires a front plate, look for “no-drill” mounting kits. These often attach to the tow hook receiver or the lower grille, keeping your bumper pristine.
Replacing Rusted Screws
If your screws look like orange mushrooms, it is time to retire them. Rusted hardware can eventually seize permanently, requiring a trip to a body shop.
When you go to the hardware store, look for M6-1.0 screws, as these are the most common size for Japanese and European vehicles. Domestic trucks often use 1/4-inch self-tapping screws.
Applying a tiny dab of anti-seize lubricant to the threads before installation will make your life much easier next year. This is a classic “old-timer” trick that every DIY mechanic should know.
Off-Road Considerations for License Plates
For the FatBoysOffroad crowd, a standard plate mount might not be enough. Trail vibrations and deep mud can easily rip a plate right off a plastic bumper.
Consider upgrading to a heavy-duty steel bracket if you spend a lot of time on corrugated dirt roads. These brackets distribute the weight of the plate and frame across a larger surface area.
If you have an aftermarket off-road bumper, you might need a relocation kit. Many of these bumpers don’t come with pre-drilled holes for tags, or the winch might block the factory location.
Always ensure your plate is illuminated if you move it. Most states require a dedicated white light to shine on the rear tag at night, so you may need to tap into your tail light wiring.
Protecting Your Tags from the Elements
Mud and salt can quickly corrode the aluminum of your license plate. A clear plastic cover can help, but check your local laws first, as some states ban them due to toll-camera interference.
A better option is a silicone frame that wraps around the edges of the plate. This prevents water from getting trapped behind the metal and causing rust on your tailgate.
After a day on the trails, make sure to spray behind the plate when washing your rig. Trapped mud holds moisture against the bodywork, which is a recipe for “bubbling” paint and rust holes.
Theft Prevention and Security Upgrades
License plates are high-value targets for thieves who want to mask the identity of a stolen vehicle. Standard screws can be removed in seconds with a common screwdriver.
To increase your security, invest in a set of security screws. These require a special “Torx” or “Snake-eye” bit to remove, which most casual thieves do not carry in their pockets.
You can also find locking plate frames that cover the screw heads entirely. While no system is 100% foolproof, making your vehicle a “hard target” usually convinces thieves to move on to an easier mark.
If you are traveling long distances or camping in remote areas, knowing how to put tags on car mounts with security hardware provides significant peace of mind. It is a small investment that prevents a massive legal headache later.
What to Do if Your Tags are Stolen
- File a police report immediately to protect yourself from tickets or crimes linked to your plate.
- Contact your local DMV or tag office to report the plates as stolen.
- Obtain a temporary operating permit if you need to drive the vehicle.
- Install your new plates using security fasteners this time.
Frequently Asked Questions About how to put tags on car
Do I need to put a tag on the front and the back of my car?
This depends entirely on your state or province. About 30 states in the US require both front and rear plates, while the rest only require a rear plate. Always check your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website to stay compliant and avoid unnecessary stops.
Can I use zip ties to hold my license plate on?
While zip ties can work in an emergency, they are generally not considered a permanent or legal mounting solution. Zip ties can become brittle in the sun and snap, leading to a lost plate. It is always better to use proper metal or nylon hardware for a secure fit.
How do I remove the sticky residue from old tags?
If you are replacing an old decal and it leaves behind a gummy mess, use a citrus-based adhesive remover or a small amount of WD-40. Let the liquid sit on the residue for a minute, then wipe it away with a rag. Be sure to clean the area with alcohol afterward so the new sticker will stick properly.
What should I do if my mounting holes are stripped?
If the holes in your bumper are stripped, you can use a larger diameter screw or install an “expansion nut.” These are designed to grip the inside of the hole as you tighten the screw. For metal surfaces, you might need to use a “nutsert” tool to create new threads.
Conclusion: Stay Legal and Secure
Mastering the simple task of how to put tags on car bumpers is a fundamental skill for any vehicle owner. It ensures that your registration is clearly visible to law enforcement and that your hardware won’t fail you when you are miles away from the nearest paved road.
Remember to always prep the surface before applying stickers and use high-quality, corrosion-resistant hardware whenever possible. Taking these extra steps now will save you from the frustration of broken bolts and lost plates in the future.
Keep your tools handy, stay on top of your registration dates, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained rig. Stay safe and stay legal!
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