Rules for two-line license plates: Court decision for US imports!

Thomas Wachsmuth 20. February 2024 Test sites, laws, offenses, information

Reading time 4 Min.

In a recent decision, the Bavarian Administrative Court said: AMS the rejection of one two-line indicator confirmed for a US import vehicle, underlining the strict standards for license plates in Europe. At the core of the debate is one Chrysler 300C Touring SRT-8, built in 2008, which was originally manufactured in the USA as the Dodge Magnum SRT8 and later imported to Germany. The special model is characterized by a license plate holder at the rear that is typical of US vehicles, but unusually narrow compared to European standards. The European Union requires that license plates have a maximum width of 52 cm at a height of 11 cm must not exceed.

two-line automotive-License-plates

However, there is the possibility of one under certain circumstances Exemption for a two-line license plate that is otherwise used on light motorcycles. The driver of the Chrysler 300C argued that such a license plate was not only more appropriate, but also more visually appealing for his vehicle. However, the Bavarian admissions office rejected the application, a decision that has now been confirmed by the Court ruling was confirmed. The Administrative Court emphasized that there is a right to a two-line license plate for vehicles without classic car status does not exist if a normal license plate can be attached using simple means such as Spacers or license plate holders is possible.

better optics is not a basis

The indentation at the rear of the affected Dodge measures 32 cm in width and 16 cm in height, which would theoretically allow an adjustment to install a standard EU license plate. The decision underlines the strict requirements regarding the License plate size and form in Europe. The previous owner of the vehicle had received an exemption for a reduced two-line European license plate, but that serves not as a basis for re-approval. The argument that a smaller license plate would visually fit the vehicle better was not well received in court. The technical and legal requirements must therefore be met in order to comply with road traffic regulations and not to concern optics.

Visual reasons: Single-line license plates often look out of place on sporty cars, caravans and US vehicles
License plates: Two-line license plates available as desired license plates
Available license plate sizes for two-line license plates:
- 220 x 200 mm
- 250 x 200 mm
- 260 x 200 mm
- 280 x 200 mm
- 300 x 200 mm
- 340 x 200 mm
Customization of letters and numbers: Different number of characters possible depending on size
Selection function: Size and effect of the two-line license plate can be individually adjusted
Two-line license plates for cars and motorcycles: Motorcycles can also receive a two-line sign of the desired size
Dimensions: Two-line license plates usually have a Maximum size from 340 mm in width and 200 mm in height. For two-wheeled vehicles the width is up to 280 mm limited. Measure reduced two-line license plates for certain vehicles 255 mm in width and 130 mm in height.
Font height and width: The font height varies with +2,0mm to -1,0mm, the line width of the label ± 1,0 mm, and the line width of the border also +2,0mm to -1,0mm. Specific dimensions for font height and width apply to motorcycle license plates and reduced two-line license plates.
Fonts: Be used Middle font 75 mm, Eng font 75 mm, and one for reduced two-line license plates and motorcycle license plates reduced central font 49 mm. The font DIN 1451 is used for the labeling.
Euro field: There is a light edge of up to between the Euro field and the black border 2,0 mm permitted. The diameter of the ring of stars in the Euro field is six times the diameter of the individual star.
Plaques: The badges must be attached to the designated spaces on the license plate; their positioning varies depending on the license plate type. For two-line license plates, the stickers may be attached under the Euro field.
distances: Specific spacing applies to the top line of a two-line license plate, such as between the label and the edge, the Euro field and the label, and between the individual characters. The diameter of the stamp plaque is 45 mm (HU plaque 35 mm). Similar rules apply to the bottom line.

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