How to Properly Clean a License Plate

Remove License Plates

• Start by removing the screws or bolts that fasten your license plates to the vehicle.
  • This could be easy or difficult depending on how rusty the bolts or screws are. There are usually two fasteners on each plate, one at each top corner.
  • Front plates get dirtier than rear ones, but not all jurisdictions require front license plates. Remove both plates for cleaning if you have two.
  • Remove the plates from plastic frames if there are any.
• Consider leaving the license plates in place if the fasteners are rusted or the heads are stripped. Removal is not essential.

Steve Maxwell for Family Handyman

Clean the Plates

• Place the license plates in a bucket of warm, soapy water then scrub the front and back faces with a sponge.
  • If soaking in water for 10 minutes, followed by scrubbing, does not remove bug splatters, consider trying an automotive bug solvent.
• Use a sticker solvent to remove the residue left behind by any old stickers you’re peeling off.
  • Be careful not to damage any current registration stickers on the plate.

Steve Maxwell for Family Handyman

Inspect and Clean the Frame

• If your license plate has a frame, inspect it for damage. If it’s in bad shape, get a new frame or go frameless.
  • License plates don’t need a frame; it’s just aesthetic.
• Scrub the frame in your bucket of soapy water.
• Thoroughly dry the plates and frames with a rag.

Steve Maxwell for Family Handyman

Wax Your Plates

Waxing the plates before reinstallation, not after, keeps stray wax from discoloring any nearby plastic frames or hardware.

• Apply automotive wax to the front and back of your license plates, let dry, then buff.
  • Wax makes it easier to remove future bug splatters and reduces UV damage and corrosion.

Steve Maxwell for Family Handyman

Reinstall Your Plates

• Inspect the bolts or screws that held the plates on before, then replace the fasteners if they’re rusty or the heads are stripping out.
• Clean the area where the plate will cover the vehicle.
• Apply some petroleum jelly or anti-seize compound to the threads of the bolts before reinstallation.
  • This prevents corrosion and makes it easier to remove the bolts or screws later.
• Replace and tighten the mounting bolts, and you’re done.

Steve Maxwell for Family Handyman