Number plate basics
All vehicles registered in NSW must have official number plates mounted and clearly displayed at the front and rear. Motorcycles and trailers only need to have number plates on the rear.
The plates must match the details on the vehicle's Certificate of Registration, and must have an appropriate sticker if the vehicle has an LPG or CNG installation.
Special number plates
Standard NSW number plates have black characters on a yellow background. However, you can have different colours and number/letter combinations on special number plates.
If you'd like to know more about the costs, choices and possibilities of special number plates, visit myRTA.
Bike rack plates
If the rear number plate of your vehicle is obscured by a bike or bike rack, you must either:
Bike rack plates have the same number/letter combination as your vehicle's registration, but they are only available as black characters on a white background. You can order bike rack plates from a motor registry, by calling 13 22 13 or online at myRTA.
Storing number plates
If you want to cancel your registration (for example because you'll be overseas) but want to keep the same number plates, they must be stored at a motor registry. You'll need to take your plates to a motor registry with your Certificate of Registration and proof of identity.
The storage fee is $50 per year, plus any annual fees that may be payable.
Number plate prices
Number plate prices vary with the extent of customisation. As a benchmark, a set of standard black-on-yellow plates are $35. The Number Plate Price List details many more options and prices for you, or visit myRTA.
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