In most contexts it’s simply called a windshield sticker or windscreen sticker. The exact name varies by purpose and region—for example a parking permit sticker, a vehicle registration or safety inspection sticker, or a toll/vignette sticker used on highways in Europe.
Common types of windshield stickers
Windshield stickers serve different regulatory or access purposes. Here are the most common categories you'll encounter:
- Windshield parking permit: Allows access to designated parking areas; displayed on the windshield.
- Registration or inspection sticker: Proof the vehicle is registered or has passed safety/emissions inspections; common in several US states and other countries.
- Vignette (toll sticker): A prepaid pass affixed to the windshield to use highways or toll roads; common in several European countries.
- Emissions/environmental sticker: Shows that the vehicle meets environmental standards or can enter low-emission zones (e.g., Umweltplakette in Germany).
The categories above cover the main reasons a windshield sticker might be required; exact names vary by country and purpose.
Regional variations
Different regions use different terms and requirements. The following examples illustrate typical practice:
- Europe: Vignettes for road use; Umweltplakette for environmental zones; some cities require municipal parking permits.
- North America: Stickers for vehicle inspections, emissions, and parking permits; many states issue license tab stickers or rely on other documentation rather than a windshield sticker.
- Other regions: Parking permits and access stickers are widely used for campuses, business districts, or restricted zones.
Regional rules can change, so it’s wise to check local transportation or DMV guidance if you’re unsure.
Summary
Windshield stickers serve regulatory, environmental, or access purposes. The generic term is windshield sticker, with variations such as parking permit, registration/inspection sticker, vignette, and environmental sticker depending on the jurisdiction and function.