How to Fit a Number Plate: Sticky Pads vs Screws

Quick Answer

Number plates can be fitted using sticky pads (included free with every Car Plates Pro order) or screws. Sticky pads are the most popular method: they leave no visible fixings and hold plates securely. Screws require drilling and leave marks if plates are removed.

Fitting a number plate in the UK takes around five minutes and requires no special skills. You can use sticky pads (also called adhesive pads or double-sided tape pads) or screws, and both methods produce a secure, legal result when done correctly. Sticky pads are the preferred method for most drivers as they leave no visible fixings and do not risk cracking the plate.

Car Plates Pro includes free sticky pads with every plate order. This guide covers both methods so you can choose the right one for your vehicle.

What You Need

For sticky pads:

Your new number plates (sticky pads included with Car Plates Pro orders)
A clean, dry cloth
Isopropyl alcohol or a mild cleaning spray

For screws:

Your new number plates
Number plate screws and caps (available from Car Plates Pro accessories)
A drill or screwdriver
A spirit level (optional but useful)

Method 1: Fitting with Sticky Pads (Recommended)

Sticky pads give a clean, invisible finish with no screw heads visible from the front. They hold securely in all weather conditions and are the method used by most car dealerships including those in the Sytner Group and Arnold Clark network.

Step 1: Clean the mounting surface

Wipe the area where the plate will sit with isopropyl alcohol or a mild cleaning spray. Remove all dust, grease, and moisture. This is the most important step. Sticky pads will not adhere properly to a dirty or damp surface.

Step 2: Peel and position the pads

Peel the backing off one side of each sticky pad and press them firmly onto the back of the number plate. Place pads at the corners and one or two in the middle of longer plates for even support. Do not overlap pads.

Step 3: Position the plate

Hold the plate up to the mounting area before removing the remaining backing. Check it is level and centred. Most bumpers have a recessed area designed to accept a number plate at the correct position.

Step 4: Press and hold

Remove the remaining backing from the pads and press the plate firmly onto the bumper. Hold it in place with even pressure for at least 30 seconds. Press along the full length of the plate, not just the corners.

Step 5: Leave to cure

For best results, avoid driving in heavy rain or car washing for 24 hours after fitting to allow the adhesive to reach full strength.

Method 2: Fitting with Screws

Screws provide a very secure mechanical fix and are better suited to vehicles that already have pre-drilled holes or screw fittings from the previous plates. They are also the right choice for rear plates on vehicles where the bumper flex in the middle could loosen adhesive pads over time.

Step 1: Mark and drill (if no existing holes)

Hold the plate in position and mark through the existing holes on the plate backing (if applicable) or measure and mark new fixing points. Standard plate screw holes are typically at 68mm and 456mm from the left edge on a standard-width plate. Drill pilot holes slightly smaller than the screw diameter.

Step 2: Insert screws

Pass the screw through the plate and into the fixing point. Do not overtighten — number plates crack easily if screws are over-driven. Tighten until just secure, then fit a coloured screw cap over the head for a neat finish.

Step 3: Check alignment

Step back and check the plate is level before fully tightening. Adjust if needed. A spirit level placed on top of the plate gives a quick check.

Sticky Pads or Screws: Which Is Better?

Sticky pads are the better choice for most vehicles and most drivers. They give a cleaner appearance, do not risk cracking the plate, and are quicker to apply. The adhesive used in number plate sticky pads is designed for outdoor use and holds securely in rain, frost, and heat.

Screws are preferable when:

Pre-drilled holes already exist from the previous plate and realigning with adhesive would be awkward
The vehicle will regularly go through an automatic car wash (brushes can catch the plate edges and peel adhesive-fitted plates over time)
The mounting area is not flat enough for good pad contact

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Fitting to a dirty or damp surface (adhesive will not bond)
Overtightening screws (cracks the plate)
Using cable ties or zip ties (not a legal mounting method)
Fitting the plate at an angle (affects readability and may cause MOT issues)
Using tape instead of proper sticky pads (tape does not withstand weather)

Legal Requirements for Fixing

The law requires that number plates are securely fixed and clearly legible at all times. A plate that falls off, droops, or vibrates such that it becomes difficult to read is non-compliant. Both screw and sticky pad methods meet the legal requirements when done correctly.

Order Your Plates with Free Sticky Pads

Every Car Plates Pro order includes sticky pads free of charge. Order before 2PM for same-day dispatch, with next working day delivery to 98% of UK addresses.