How to fit number plates: pads vs screws
Fitting a plate takes a few minutes with the right method. Here is a simple step-by-step for sticky pads and for screws, plus when magnets make sense for temporary use.
Pads or screws — which should you use?
Both methods are widely used and both can give a clean, secure fit. Adhesive pads give a screw-free finish and are quick to apply. Screws are the most secure and easy to remove later, but leave visible fixings unless you use caps. Many people simply match whatever the previous plate used, or what the vehicle's mounting points suit.
| Method | Best for | Pros | Worth knowing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sticky pads | Most flat fixing areas | Clean, screw-free look, fast | Surface must be clean and dry; bond strengthens over time |
| Screws | Pre-drilled mounts / panels | Very secure, easy to remove | Use caps to match the plate colour |
| Magnets | Temporary / trade use | No marks, instantly removable | Off-road or short-term use only; can shift at speed |
You can pick up fixings on the accessories page when you order your plates in the builder.
Before you start
- Check your plates are correct — registration, layout and size — before fixing anything.
- Park somewhere dry and out of direct cold; adhesive bonds best at a mild temperature.
- Have the old plate removed and the surface cleaned ready to go.
Fitting with sticky pads (step by step)
- Clean the mounting area thoroughly and let it dry fully — grease or dust stops the pads bonding.
- Apply the pads to the back of the plate, spaced around the edges so the plate is supported evenly. Avoid covering the whole back.
- Peel the backing, line the plate up level, then press it firmly into place.
- Hold firm pressure for a short while and avoid washing the car for a day so the bond can cure.
Fitting with screws (step by step)
- Hold the plate up to the mounting area and mark or line up the existing screw holes so it sits level.
- If the plate is not pre-drilled, drill the holes carefully to match the mounts.
- Fit the screws and tighten gently — firm enough to hold, not so tight that you crack the acrylic.
- Clip on colour-matched screw caps for a tidy finish.
Magnets for temporary use
Magnetic fixings let you put a plate on and take it off instantly without marks, which is handy for trade, photography or off-road use. They are best treated as a temporary solution rather than a permanent road fitting, as a magnet can shift at speed or on rough surfaces.
Make sure the plate stays secure and readable. Whichever method you choose, the plate must be firmly fixed and the registration must be clearly visible. A loose or obscured plate can cause problems at an MOT or roadside check.
Ready to order? Build your plates in the builder, add fixings from accessories, and check pricing as you go.
Need plates and fixings?
Build your plates and add pads or screws in one order.