ECE R4

The lighting term ECE R4 was previously used for the approval of licence plate lighting. However, this standard is no longer used for new type approvals.

As part of the Simplification of Lighting Regulations (SLR) by the UNECE, ECE R4 has been merged with several other regulations to form the modern ECE R148. This change was officially introduced in the 2019-2021 period and is now considered the standard for light-signalling devices on vehicles.

What was the ECE R4 certification for?

The ECE R4 certification was intended for the approval of rear registration plate lighting on vehicles. This standard set requirements for light output, colour, dispersion and visibility of the light to ensure number plates are easily readable, especially in the dark. However, since the introduction of ECE R148, this certification is no longer used for new type approvals.

The new umbrella ECE R148

Are you looking for the correct requirements for approval of licence plate lighting? Then you will automatically end up at ECE R148. This regulation covers, among other things:

• Licence plate lighting

• Position lights

• Brake lights

• Direction indicators

• Rear fog lamps

• Reversing lights

• Position lights and more

ECE R148 applies to vehicles in categories M, N, O and T, i.e. passenger cars, commercial vehicles, 12V semi-trailers and agricultural vehicles.

Why this change?

The transition to R148 aims to:

• More overview and simplicity in regulations

• Reduced administrative burden for manufacturers

• Better adapted to modern technologies such as LED illumination

Combining the original ECE regulations (such as R4, R6, R7, R23, R38, etc.) makes type approval clearer, more efficient and more future-proof.

Existing products with ECE R4

Many existing products still carry an R4 marking and may still be used for replacement on vehicles approved with them. These therefore remain legal for, for example, MOT purposes.

New type approvals

For new vehicle types or product developments , new approvals are no longer granted under R4. Manufacturers and importers are required to certify under ECE R148 for new products.

Did you know that ECE R148 stems from the merging of no fewer than nine older ECE regulations? Think R4 (licence plate lights), R6 (direction indicators), R7 (position and brake lights), R23 (reversing lights), R38 (rear fog lights), R50, R77, R87 and R91.

Want to know more?

Read more about the full content of the ECE R148 regulations here and find out what your vehicle lighting must comply with.