Typically, license plate screws can be either metric M6 or imperial size #6-32, depending on the country and the vehicle. In practice, many European and aftermarket setups use M6, while many US and Canadian installations use #6-32. Check your vehicle’s mounting hardware to be sure.
License plates are mounted with two screws or bolts at the top corners, but the exact threading standard varies by market and OEM design. This article explains how to identify the correct size for your plate and what to expect in different regions.
Common sizes by region
To orient readers, here are the typical threading standards you’re likely to encounter based on location and common practice.
- North America: Standard practice is #6-32 UNC machine screws, with common lengths ranging from 1/2" to 1" (12.7–25.4 mm), usually used with washers and sometimes captive nuts in the plate frame.
- Europe and many other markets: Commonly M6 screws with a 1.0 mm pitch (M6 x 1.0), used with European plates and many aftermarket kits.
- Other markets and OEM variations: Some vehicles or kits may use M6 x 0.75 or other thread pitches; always verify against the vehicle’s documentation or the mounting kit.
There is no universal standard across all vehicles; confirm the exact size for your car before ordering replacements or new hardware.
How to determine the correct screw for your plate
Below are practical steps to identify the right screw size for your license plate mounting.
- Inspect the existing hardware on your plate or bumper. If the screws have metric markings, they are likely M6; imperial screws may be identified by diameter in inches and thread pitch in TPI.
- Measure the diameter and pitch with a caliper or thread gauge. If the diameter is about 6 mm and the pitch is around 1.0 mm, you’re likely looking at M6 x 1.0. If it’s closer to 0.138 inches in diameter with a finer pitch, it may be #6-32 UNC.
- Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or dealership parts catalog for the recommended mounting hardware.
- Consider your market: US/Canada commonly use #6-32; Europe and many other regions commonly use M6 x 1.0.
- If you’re unsure, purchase a dual-size or universal license plate mounting kit that accommodates both M6 and #6-32 options, or bring a sample of your current screw to a hardware store for comparison.
Following these steps helps ensure you don’t strip threads or fail to secure the plate properly.
Head styles and materials
Beyond size, the head type and material affect installation, corrosion resistance, and appearance. Here is a quick guide to options you’ll encounter.
Head styles
Common head styles for license plate screws include the following:
- Pan head
- Button head
- Flat-head (countersunk) for flush mounting
Some kits also include washers or captive nuts to improve hold and reduce damage to the plate or frame.
Materials
Materials chosen affect durability and weather resistance. Typical options are:
- Stainless steel for corrosion resistance
- Zinc-plated steel for cost-effectiveness
- Brass or aluminum in some decorative or weight-conscious kits
Most aftermarket license plate hardware is designed to resist rust and wear under normal driving conditions.
Summary
The straightforward takeaway is that license plate screws are not universally M6; you’ll most often encounter either M6 x 1.0 in many European contexts or #6-32 UNC in North America. Always confirm by checking your vehicle’s documentation, inspecting the current screws, or consulting a parts retailer. If in doubt, choose a versatile mounting kit that covers both metric and imperial options.