Are all license plate holders the same size?
No. License plate holders are not universal in size. Sizes vary by country, vehicle type, and plate format.
This article examines how plate holder dimensions differ around the world, highlights common sizes for major regions, and explains what to check when selecting a holder to ensure a proper fit and compliance with local rules.
Regional size basics
Below are the typical dimensions used in different regions for standard passenger plates. Note that there can be exceptions for specialty plates, different years, or certain jurisdictions.
North America: United States and Canada
In North America, standard passenger plates are generally 6 inches high by 12 inches wide, and are the baseline for many plate holders sold in the market. Some states or provinces issue alternate formats for specialized or vanity plates, and motorcycles use smaller plates.
- Car/personal passenger plates: approximately 6 in x 12 in (152 mm x 305 mm).
- Motorcycle plates: commonly smaller, around 4 in x 7 in (about 102 mm x 178 mm).
The practical takeaway is that most holders marketed for North America fit a 6x12 inch plate, but always check the exact mounting pattern in your jurisdiction.
Europe and the United Kingdom
Most European car plates follow a standard roughly 520 mm × 110–111 mm, with the UK using a near-identical width but a very slightly different height. This standard is supported across many EU countries and helps ensure cross-border recognition, though there are a few exceptions and variations for older plates or specific regulations.
- Car plates: approximately 520 mm wide by 110–111 mm tall.
- UK plates: similar width, generally around 111 mm tall.
When shopping for a holder in Europe or the UK, ensure the inner width is about 520 mm and the height is around 110–111 mm, and verify the hole pattern matches your vehicle’s mounting points.
Australia and other regions
Australia uses a different standard for passenger plates, commonly around 372 mm by 134 mm, with state-by-state variations. Other regions have their own unique sizes, so holders designed for one country may not fit another without modification or adapters.
- Australia: commonly 372 mm wide by 134 mm tall for passenger plates.
- Other regions: sizes vary widely; many countries have their own standard plate formats.
In practice, if you own a vehicle imported from abroad or live near a border with cross-border plates, confirm the exact plate size and hole spacing before buying a holder.
Practical considerations when buying a plate holder
Before purchasing a plate holder, consider the following factors that influence fit and legality.
See below for a quick guide to what to verify before ordering or mounting a holder.
- Plate dimensions and hole pattern: make sure the holder accommodates your plate’s width, height, and mounting hole layout.
- Frame coverage and legibility: avoid frames that obscure digits, state seals, or registration stickers; ensure the plate remains clearly visible.
- Compliance with local rules: some jurisdictions restrict decorative frames or require specific mounting; verify requirements for your area.
Choosing the right holder means matching the exact plate size and hole configuration for your region, vehicle type, and legal requirements.
Summary
License plate holders are not universally the same size. Standard dimensions exist in several regions—such as 6x12 inches for US/Canada and about 520x110–111 mm for many European car plates—yet many countries have their own specific sizes, and motorcycles or specialty plates use different formats. Always verify the precise plate dimensions and hole pattern for your jurisdiction and vehicle before purchasing a holder to ensure a secure, compliant fit.
What is the size of a license plate holder?
DPD License plate frames are designed to fit standard size license plates in the US and Canada, frame size measured at 12.25" x 6.25".
What size is a standard number plate holder?
Standard Branded Backing Plates / Number Plate Attachment Frames
| Weight | 100 kg |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 52 × 11 cm |
| Backing plates Standard | 440mm |
| Sizes | 440mm, 520mm |
Do all plate frames fit every car?
There are no universal frames that fit all state plates perfectly because different states have different sizes and shapes of plates. However, some frames are designed to fit most standard plates (6 x 12 inches) with minimal adjustment or modification.
Are all license plate frames the same size?
No, not all license plate frames are the same size because standard sizes vary by region and vehicle type. While most U.S. frames are designed for standard 6x12 inch plates, you can also find frames for smaller motorcycle plates (around 4x7 inches) and different international sizes. It is important to check the size of your license plate to ensure a proper fit.
Common license plate sizes
- U.S. and Canada (cars, trucks, SUVs): Standard size is 12 inches x 6 inches. Frames are generally a little larger, around 12.5 x 6.5 inches, to fit these plates.
- Motorcycles: Often around 7 inches x 4 inches, but can vary by state.
- European: Plates are often longer and thinner than U.S. plates, with common sizes like 20.5 inches x 4.5 inches.
What to consider when buying a frame
- Check your license plate size: Verify the dimensions of your specific license plate before purchasing a frame.
- Mounting holes: Some vehicles have 2 mounting holes, while others have 4. Make sure the frame you choose matches the number of holes on your vehicle.
- Vehicle type: Frames are made for different vehicles. A motorcycle frame will not fit a car plate, and vice versa.
- International plates: If you have an international vehicle, you will need to look for frames designed for those specific sizes, as they are different from U.S. standards.
