How much does it cost to replace a license plate light?
Replacing a license plate light typically costs between a few dollars and a few hundred, depending on whether you do it yourself or hire a shop, and on the type of light your vehicle uses. A simple bulb swap is often the cheapest route, while LED modules or full tail-light assemblies can push the price higher.
What affects the price
Several factors determine the final bill, including the bulb type, how accessible the light is, whether the light is a standalone bulb or part of a larger assembly, and regional labor rates.
Bulb types and replacements
License plate lighting can use incandescent/halogen bulbs or LEDs. Incandescent or halogen bulbs are inexpensive but wear out faster, while LED options cost more upfront but last longer and may be more energy efficient. Some vehicles have a dedicated LED module integrated into the license plate light, while others rely on a replaceable bulb within a housing.
- Incandescent/halogen bulb replacement: typically a few dollars for the bulb itself; no or minimal labor if you do it yourself.
- LED bulb or LED module replacement: higher up-front cost for the part (often $5–$60), but longer life; labor is usually extra if done by a shop.
- Full tail-light or housing replacement: more expensive, as it may involve a larger component and more labor.
Bottom line: Costs hinge on the bulb type and how easily the light can be accessed. A straightforward bulb swap is the least expensive path; LED modules and especially full assemblies push costs higher.
DIY vs professional replacement
Deciding whether to DIY or go to a shop depends on comfort with car electronics, time, and local labor rates. Here are typical cost ranges to help you decide.
- DIY replacement: Bulbs usually cost 2–15 USD; you may need only basic hand tools if you don’t already own them. No labor charges when done yourself.
- Professional replacement: For a simple bulb, labor plus parts might total roughly 30–120 USD, depending on the shop and region. If LED modules or a full assembly is involved, parts can be 15–60 USD or more, and labor can bring the total to around 70–250 USD or higher.
Concluding note: For most cars, a basic bulb swap by a professional sits in the low-to-mid range (roughly $30–$120). LED modules and full assemblies raise prices notably. Always obtain a quote that itemizes parts and labor before authorizing work.
What to check before you replace
To avoid surprises, review your vehicle’s owner manual for the exact bulb type and replacement procedure. If you’re not confident, call a few local shops for estimates and confirm whether the price includes parts, labor, and disposal of old components. Prices can vary by region and vehicle design, with minor adjustments for taxes and shop fees.
Summary
Replacing a license plate light generally costs from about $5 to $150 for a simple bulb change handled by a shop, and much more if LED modules or entire light assemblies are involved. Do-it-yourself bulb swaps are the cheapest option, while LED or full-assembly replacements and dealer-level service can push the price higher. Check your manual for the right bulb type and obtain multiple estimates from local auto shops to get the most accurate price in 2025.
