Red Number Plates: What Do They Mean in France and the UK?

Red number plates are a special type of vehicle registration that serves different purposes in France and the United Kingdom. In this blog post, we’ll explore what these red plates signify in each country, who can obtain them, and the processes involved.

What Does a Red Number Plate Mean in France?

In France, red number plates, known as transit plates or plaques d’immatriculation de transit, are temporary registration plates issued for vehicles that are being transported or driven within the country for a limited period. These plates are primarily used for:

1. Vehicles in transit: Cars, motorcycles, or other vehicles that are being driven through France en route to another country can obtain red transit plates.
2. Imported vehicles: Newly imported vehicles that need to be driven from the point of entry (e.g., a port or border) to their final destination within France.
3. Vehicle trade and export: Cars owned by dealers, manufacturers, or exporters that need to be driven for purposes of trade, sale, or export.

AThe red color of these plates clearly indicates their temporary nature, distinguishing them from regular white plates used for permanently registered vehicles in France. Trailers Need License Plates

Who Can Apply for Red Number Plates in France?

Red transit plates in France can be obtained by.

• Individuals: French residents or non-residents who need to drive a vehicle through France for a limited period.
• Businesses: Companies involved in the import, export, or trade of vehicles, such as car dealerships, manufacturers, and exporters.

How to Apply for In-Transit License Plates in France?

To obtain red transit plates in France, applicants must visit a regional prefecture or an approved agency and provide the necessary documentation. The application process typically involves submitting the following.

1. Application form: A completed and signed application form for temporary transit registration.
2. Vehicle documentation: Proof of ownership or authorization to use the vehicle, such as a purchase invoice, lease agreement, or power of attorney.
3. Proof of identity: A valid government-issued ID or passport.
4. Proof of address: A recent utility bill or other document confirming the applicant’s address.
5. Proof of insurance: Evidence of valid insurance coverage for the vehicle during the transit period.
6. Payment: The applicable fee for temporary transit registration, which varies depending on the duration and type of vehicle.

Paperwork for the Registration of a Vehicle with Temporary Transit Use

Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive the red transit plates and the necessary paperwork, including.

A Tax Receipt

This document serves as proof of payment for the temporary registration and must be carried in the vehicle at all times.

Documents Proving the Identity of the Applicant

Copies of the applicant’s ID or passport will be included in the registration paperwork.

Duration of Temporary Transit Registration

The validity period for red transit plates in France varies depending on the purpose and circumstances.

• Vehicles in transit: Transit plates are typically valid for 1 to 3 months, allowing sufficient time for the vehicle to pass through France.
• Imported vehicles: Transit plates for newly imported vehicles are usually valid for 1 month, allowing time for the vehicle to be permanently registered in France.
• Vehicle trade and export: Transit plates for vehicles involved in trade or export can be valid for up to 1 year, depending on the specific needs of the business.

It’s important to note that red transit plates cannot be renewed or extended beyond their initial validity period. If the vehicle needs to remain in France for a longer duration, it must be permanently registered with regular white plates.

Red Number Plate in the UK: For Traders

In the United Kingdom, red number plates, also known as trade plates or traders’ plates, serve a different purpose. These plates are primarily used by businesses involved in the motor trade, such as car dealerships, mechanics, and vehicle transporters.

How to Get UK Red Number Plates?

To obtain red trade plates in the UK, businesses must meet certain criteria and follow the specified application process.

LBV Appointment Bookings

The first step is to book an appointment with the Local Business Vehicle (LBV) office, which is responsible for issuing trade plates in the respective area.

Important Notes

• Prerequisites: The business must have a valid Motor Trade Insurance policy and a premises from which the motor trade is conducted.
• Documents Required: During the appointment, the business must provide proof of insurance, proof of address, and other relevant documentation as requested by the LBV office.

Please Note

• Deadlines: Some LBV offices have specific deadlines for submitting applications, so it’s important to check and comply with their requirements.

Procedure & Fees

1. Fees: A fee is charged for the issuance of trade plates, which varies depending on the duration and the number of plates required.
2. Legal Notes: Trade plates in the UK are subject to specific legal regulations and restrictions, such as:
   • Legal Basis: The use of trade plates is governed by the Road Vehicles (Registration and Licensing) Regulations 2002.
   • Permitted Use: Trade plates can only be used for specific purposes related to the motor trade business, such as moving vehicles to or from a place of work, testing vehicles, or delivering vehicles to customers.
   • Restrictions: Trade plates cannot be used for personal or social purposes, and the vehicle must be insured and taxed appropriately.

Businesses operating in the motor trade must ensure they comply with all relevant regulations when using red trade plates in the UK.

Conclusion

Red number plates serve distinct purposes in France and the UK. They allow for smooth transportation of vehicles. Following the proper procedures is crucial.

In France, the red transit plates are temporary. They enable driving imported cars or moving vehicles. Vehicle traders also utilize them. The validity period is limited. Permanent registration requires standard plates. In the UK, red trade plates are for motor trade businesses. They allow moving, testing, or delivering vehicles. Businesses must follow regulations for permitted use. Having valid insurance and documentation is mandatory. Understanding the rules prevents misuse of these specialized plates.

FAQ’s

What does it mean to have the red plate?
Having a red number plate means different things in different countries. In France, it indicates a temporary transit registration for vehicles being imported, exported, or driven through the country for a limited time. In the UK, red plates are trade plates used by businesses in the motor trade industry to move, test, or deliver vehicles.

What does red number plate mean in Pakistan?
Pakistan does not currently have a specific designation for red number plates. The standard license plates issued for vehicles are white plates with black letters/numbers for private vehicles and black plates with white letters/numbers for commercial vehicles.

What are the red license plates in Ontario?
In the Canadian province of Ontario, red license plates with the word Dealer indicate a vehicle dealer plate. These allow automotive dealerships and manufacturers to operate vehicles for purposes like delivery, road testing, moving between locations, and more. The plates are linked to the dealership rather than an individual vehicle.

What does red licence plate mean in Germany?
In Germany, red license plates, known as rote Kennzeichen are issued for vehicles with temporary operating permits, similar to transit plates in France. These are typically used for newly imported vehicles, vehicles being exported, or those transported between locations. Red plates signify the vehicle does not have permanent registration.