Second registration plate position mandatory for heavy duty 12V semi-trailers and semi-trailers from July 2026

In this blog you will read:

• About the European regulations for the double number plate position O3 and O4 category vehicles.
• For which vehicles the obligation applies
• Helpful tips and mounting solutions

The new regulations for double registration plates

From 7 July 2026, new European requirements will apply to heavy semi-trailers and semi-trailers. From then on, vehicles in the O3 and O4 categories must have two separate mounting positions for a rear registration plate, including the possibility of lighting both positions.

This requirement follows from Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/883 and is necessary to register the vehicle.

Why is this requirement being introduced

With two number plates, vehicles are more identifiable, even in poor weather conditions or contaminated plates. ANPR systems work more effectively and enforcement becomes easier, for example during border controls and traffic violations. In addition, the uniform rule reduces differences in interpretation between EU countries.

Although European regulations require that 12V semi-trailers in the O3 and O4 categories will soon have to be equipped with two positions for a rear registration plate, this does not mean that two plates will actually have to be carried in all countries. Usage varies between member states: some countries, such as Italy and Spain, require a second registration plate in specific situations, while others do not.

Manufacturers must therefore ensure that the semi-trailer is technically prepared for both positions, including the possibility of lighting, so that registration, export or deployment in countries with additional requirements can take place smoothly.

Which vehicles are subject to the obligation of a second registration plate position

The requirement applies to all O3 and O4 category vehicles such as:

• Semi-trailers
• Centre-axle semi-trailers
• Flatbed semi-trailers
• Dollys
• Special transport vehicles within the O3 or O4 weight class

Vehicles in the O1 and O2 category (up to 3,500 kg) are excluded from this requirement.

Technical mounting requirements for double number plates

• Dimensions: each registration plate position must accommodate a 520 × 120 mm EU plate.
• Mounting surface: flat or lightly curved, with stable vibration-resistant mounting.
• Placement: both positions must separately meet the installation requirements from ECE R48. The positions must be suitable for fixed, stable and durable fixing of the plates. Although the regulation does not specify a minimum or maximum distance between the number plates, it is important that both plates are separate and clearly visible, even from angled viewing angles.
• Visibility: plates must not be obscured by bumper, lighting or other vehicle parts.
• Orientation: The registration plate must be mounted horizontally, angled to the reference plane of the vehicle. Vertical placement is not allowed for O-category 12V semi-trailers.
• Lighting: lighting in accordance with ECE R4 is mandatory for both plates.

More on this in our article on mounting instructions double license plate position.

More about mounting requirements of number plates and lighting can be found in the UNECE ECE R48 regulations.

Whether the second registration plate is actually carried in practice depends on national regulations. These national differences do not affect the European obligation to provide the space.

What does this mean for C.O.C. documentation?

The Certificate of Conformity (C.O.C.) must state that the vehicle has two registration plate positions. Existing type approvals must also be updated by July 2026. This also provides a logical time to modernise lighting and opt for integrated solutions. Think plug solutions that make fitting easier and faster.

Opening up the C.O.C. is an excellent time to see where there are further gains.

The choice of TRALERT® - number plates with integrated lighting

For vehicles in the O3 and O4 category, the available space at the rear is often limited. This makes mounting separate licence plate lights challenging. TRALERT® therefore offers licence plate holders with integrated LED lighting that are easy to mount.

Does the new EU regulation apply in the United Kingdom?

Regulation (EU) 2024/883 does not automatically apply in the United Kingdom following Brexit. As of now, there is no formal requirement within UK legislation for O3 and O4 semi-trailers to have dual number plate positions at the rear.

• Type approval in the UK is managed by the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA), and enforcement is handled by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). For semi-trailers registered and operated solely within the UK, there is currently no obligation to comply with the EU’s dual number plate requirement.
• However, for semi-trailers intended for export to EU member states, full compliance with Regulation (EU) 2024/883 is mandatory from 7 July 2026. This includes the installation of two designated number plate positions at the rear. UK manufacturers and bodybuilders who supply the European market are therefore advised to align their designs with the new EU standards to ensure seamless registration and cross-border acceptance.

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Frequently asked questions

Which semi-trailers exactly does this apply to?

Only vehicles in category O3 (3,500-10,000 kg) and O4 (>10,000 kg). 12V semi-trailers in the O1 and O2 categories (including maximum loads lighter than 3,500 kg) are excluded from the requirement.

Does the obligation also apply to foreign vehicles in the Netherlands?

As long as a vehicle is legally registered in another EU country before July 2026, it may drive in the Netherlands. Will the vehicle be imported and re-registered in the Netherlands after that date? Then it does have to meet the new requirement.

Are there any exceptions?

Yes. O2 vehicles (750-3,500 kg) and specially approved vehicles such as agricultural semi-trailers or vehicles with specific exemptions are excluded. Please note that vehicles within O3 or O4 with different dimensions are not automatically excluded.

What happens if a vehicle does not have a second registration plate position after July 2026?

If so, the vehicle cannot be registered or authorised. This also applies to import vehicles and individual inspections (IVA). Vehicles already registered before 7 July 2026 may continue to be driven on the road according to the requirements in force at that time.

Will this affect the MOT?

No, not for the time being. The requirement is linked to vehicle admission and not (yet) part of the periodic inspection. Whether that will change in the future depends on national regulations.

Disclaimer:

At TRALERT®, we do our best to keep the information in this article as accurate and up-to-date as possible, including the regulations surrounding vehicle lighting. However, legislation can change regularly, and although we make every effort to implement these changes in a timely manner, it is possible that certain updates or adjustments have not yet been incorporated into this article. We therefore always advise our readers to check the current legislation with their local government or regulatory bodies, especially when it comes to exceptions or specific national regulations. TRALERT® is not liable for any damages or fines resulting from outdated or incomplete information in this article.

If in doubt, always contact the competent authority to ensure that your vehicle meets all legal requirements.