What’s the first thing you notice on a car? Often, it’s the license plate. But what frames that important piece of metal? License plate frames seem small, but they make a big visual impact! Choosing the perfect one can be surprisingly tricky. Do you want something flashy, something subtle, or something that shows off your favorite team?
Picking the wrong frame can lead to faded colors, rust, or even breaking local laws about covering up important numbers. It’s frustrating when you buy something only to have it look terrible after one winter storm. You want a frame that lasts and looks great doing it. Finding the right balance between style, durability, and legality is the real challenge.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will explore the best materials, the must-know legal details, and design tips to ensure your vehicle stands out for the right reasons. Get ready to transform that plain plate into a personalized statement. Let’s dive into everything you need to know before you click ‘add to cart’!
Top License Plate Frames Recommendations
- For U.S. License plate. - Aujen license plate frames use the high quality silicone materials, which protect license plate from rusting and damaging. This license plate frame black is more long-lasting than plastic frame.
- Rust-proof. Rattle-proof. Weather-proof Car Accessories. - Made from industrial-grade silicone, this liscen plate frame have soft flexible surface that prevents any scratches or rattles. And these lisences plate frame will not rust even if it is exposed all year round to wind and rain.
- Humanized design - Our automotive license plate frames have 3 drainage holes to release water. Black matte material does not discolor or rust and gets better with use.
- Totally street legal - With zero license plate & sticker obstruction, this license plate frame for car won’t bring you trouble. No more worrying about being stopped by the police.
- All-rounded Protection - Aujen silicone licence plate frames are designed to provide an all-rounded protection to your car plate. The soft silicone material can effectively prevent the car plate from deformation and the car paint from scratches!
- No-Cover State Name: Upgraded 2-hole matte black license plate frames size 12.25IN X 6.25IN fits all standard size U.S. license plates, can protects the front and rear plates of the car. The narrow border of the license plate frame does not block the status label or override the state name of your plate
- Solid Material: Car license plate holder, rust and weatherproof made of solid aluminum, no need to worry about fading and rust, can easily match any paint job. The plate frame has rounded edges that will not scratch the paint on the car
- Ideal Presents Choice: Premium black license plate holder are ideal Presents for men, women, friends and family during Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Thanksgiving, birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, New Year's and other holidays
- Easy to Install: License plate frame screw cap kit, quick and easy to install and remove. You can use the top two mounting screws to secure the license plate and then cover the unsightly cap
- What You Get: Include 2 X license plate frames, 4 X machine screws, 4 X washers, 4 X screw caps, 1 X Specification
- NO OBSTRUCTION & STREET LEGAL: This license plate holder only fits any standard size (12” x 6”) for front and rear license plates in the US. It doesn't fit motorcycle license plates and personalized or special license plates. This black license plate frame will not obscure any information, avoiding unpleasant troubles concerning the frame throughout the drive.
- HIGH-QUALITY SILICONE MATERIAL: The universal license plate frame is made of industrial-grade silicone which is characterized as rustproof, rattle proof and weatherproof, preventing your car from scratches, rust, deformation and fading in comparison to most metal license plate frames. It doesn't fit some vehicle models such as Trailers,RVs,Trucks, ATVs and so on.
- INNOVATIVE SIDE-OPENING DESIGN: This license plate bracket features its reinforced corners and side opening. With this special design, you just need to insert the license plate from either opening side of the frame, protecting yourself from being hurt and the surface of your car being scratched by the sharp license plate.
- UPGRADED QUICK-INSTALLATION DESIGN: This item comes with 8 screw caps, 8 stainless hex nuts, 4 stainless tapping screws and 4 stainless pan head screws. But screws are not suitable for Tesla. Tesla owners need to purchase Tesla specific screws. Simply slot your plate into the silicone license plate frame and align the plate with the four holes on the frame. Screw the license plate on your car with the hex nuts first, screws second and screw caps finally.
- FASHIONABLE DESIGN & HUMANIZED DETAILS: This silicone license plate frame has 4 reinforced round corners, looking great on your vehicle while averting damages caused by traditional sharp-cornered frames. In addition, along with the 2 drain holes on the bottom, the upgraded vents on the upper left corner and lower right corner keep your license plate away from water accumulation and rust.
- For U.S. License plate - Aujen license plate frames use the high quality silicone materials, which protect license plate from rusting and damaging.
- Rust-proof. Rattle-proof. Weather-proof Car Accessories. - Made from industrial-grade silicone, this liscen plate frame have soft flexible surface that prevents any scratches or rattles. And these lisences plate frame will not rust even if it is exposed all year round to wind and rain.
- Humanized design - Our car license plate frames have 3 drainage holes to release water. Black matte material does not discolor or rust and gets better with use.
- Totally street legal - With zero license plate & sticker obstruction, this license plate frame for car won’t bring you trouble. No more worrying about being stopped by the police.
- All-rounded Protection - Aujen silicone licence plate frames are designed to provide an all-rounded protection to your car plate. The soft silicone material can effectively prevent the car plate from deformation and the car paint from scratches!
- STAINLESS STEEL LICENSE PLATE FRAME: The main characteristics are no rust, corrosion resistance, air and steam resistance. Wear-resistant, waterproof, not afraid of high temperature, easy to deal with all kinds of bad weather, avoid light pollution, easy to maintain.
- THE NEW STYLE DOES NOT COVER THE STATE NAME: The upgraded style of the license plate frame is more suitable, and the size of 12.2inch*6.3inch meets the US and Canada standards. The license plate frame is covered with arcs, and the corners are finely polished to prevent scratches on the car paint and protect the license plate from warping and bending.
- EASY TO INSTALL: The value pack includes 2 pieces of license plate frames, accessories, screw caps, anti-theft screws, and matching screwdrivers.
- SURPRISE GIFT: Best choice for gift giving, a surprise gift for family or friends on Christmas, Birthday, Anniversary, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Thanksgiving Day, New Year.
- WORRY-FREE PURCHASE: We are committed to providing customers with a better shopping experience and will be responsible for all quality issues.
- New 2 Holes Slim Style Design License Plate Frame. Will Not Block State Tags. Comes With 2 License Plate Frame.
- High Quality Rust Free Stainless Steel License Plate Frame: Protects Against Corrosion And Rust
- Easy Installation And Comes With 2 License Plate Frame, 4 Screw Caps, 4 Self-tapping Screws, 2 Machine Screws, 4 Washers
- For U.S. License Plate: License Plate Frame Size 6-5/16" x 12-1/4"
- Stylish Construction With Chrome Finishing
- License plate frame with black color:Stainless Steel Frames Over 1000 pcs Finest 14 Facets Clear Glass Rhinestone Crystals. The edge of the black license plate frame has been ground to prevent scratching the car’s paint. This set comes with AA SS16 Rhinestones
- Packaged nicely in a premium box, it is a wonderful offering for your family or friends on Christmas, Birthday, Anniversary, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Thanksgiving Day, New Year
- Conforms to American Canadian standards:The black license plate frame is fit all standard size 12.25*6.25 inch license plates in Canada and the USA.Designed not to block registration label in a four corners
- Easy to install:Each product is equipped with anti-theft screws, and installation tools, allowing you to install your black license plate holder faster
- ALL-rounded protection:Our licence plate frames are crafted from stainless steel. The material is strong, corrosion-resistant, and stable. It prevents the plate from bending or warping and guards the car paint from scratches
- - Silicone License Plate Frame: 12.3*6.3* 0.35 in, US and CA standard cars; Rubber Water Coasters for Car：2.75* 0.2 in, common size for most cars.
- -Silicone material: License plate frame made of high-quality silicone material, which is soft and environmentally friendly. NO more scratches by tag on car and completely without any noise.
- -Rust-Proof & Weather-Proof: 3 rows of drainage holes at the bottom of license plate holder to ensure effective drainage in rainy days. Can be used all year round and works great in the range of -60~250 degrees.
- - 100% Street Legal: Standard license plate cover with a thick and narrow edge which does not block any content of the license plate, fits most US and Canada cars.
- -Easy installation: Please note that the side with drainage holes is the bottom, the screws and nuts are provided in the package.
Your Guide to Picking the Perfect License Plate Frame
A license plate frame is more than just a pretty border for your car’s tag. It protects your plate, shows off your style, and sometimes even helps keep it safe. Choosing the right one is simple when you know what to look for. This guide helps you find the best frame for your ride.
Key Features to Look For
1. Size and Fit
The most important thing is size. Most frames fit standard U.S. license plates, which are 6 inches tall and 12 inches wide. Always double-check your state’s plate size. A good frame fits snugly without hiding important information like registration stickers or the state name.
2. Coverage and Visibility
Some frames are very thick. Make sure the frame does not block the state name at the top or the registration tags in the corners. In many places, blocking these parts is against the law. Look for frames that hug the edges neatly.
3. Mounting Holes
Frames usually have two or four holes for screws. Most cars use four holes. Make sure the holes line up well with your vehicle’s mounting points. Poor alignment can cause the frame to rattle or sit crooked.
4. Security Features
Some frames include special screws or caps. These help stop people from easily stealing your license plate. If you live in an area where plate theft is common, look for these anti-theft features.
Important Materials: What Your Frame Is Made Of
The material affects how long the frame lasts and how it looks.
- Stainless Steel: This is a top choice. Stainless steel resists rust very well. It looks shiny and keeps its look for a long time, even through rain and snow.
- Aluminum: This material is lightweight and strong. It is often cheaper than steel. However, some lower-quality aluminum can oxidize or corrode over time if the finish wears off.
- Plastic/ABS: Plastic frames are very inexpensive. They offer many color choices. The downside is that plastic can become brittle, crack in extreme heat or cold, and fade in the sun faster than metal.
- Carbon Fiber: This offers a high-end, sporty look. It is very strong and light. It is usually the most expensive option.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is often seen in the details.
Better Quality Indicators:
- Thick Material: Thicker metal frames feel sturdy and do not bend easily.
- Protective Coating: Frames, especially metal ones, should have a clear coat or powder coating. This coating stops scratches and prevents fading.
- Rubber Gaskets: Some high-quality frames include thin rubber padding behind the frame. This padding stops the frame from vibrating against your car, which prevents paint scratching and rattling noises.
Lower Quality Indicators:
- Thin Edges: Very thin metal frames bend easily during installation or washing.
- Sharp Edges: If the edges feel sharp, the frame was not finished well. These sharp edges can scratch your car’s paint easily.
- Cheap Hardware: If the frame comes with standard screws instead of stainless steel ones, those screws will rust quickly, leaving orange streaks down your bumper.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your vehicle changes the best frame choice.
Daily Commuting:
For everyday driving, durability matters most. A stainless steel frame offers the best protection against road grime and weather. You need a frame that stays put and doesn’t rattle when you drive on bumpy roads.
Show Cars/Custom Looks:
If you want your car to stand out, you might choose a custom color plastic frame or a sleek carbon fiber look. Here, aesthetics trump pure durability, but you still want the finish to last through a few car shows.
Off-Roading/Harsh Weather:
If your car sees mud, salt, or heavy rain, rust resistance is critical. Avoid painted plastic or non-coated aluminum. Stick to high-grade stainless steel to handle the toughest conditions.
License Plate Frame FAQs
Q: Can I get fined for having a license plate frame?
A: Yes, you can. Laws change by state and county. Generally, you cannot cover the registration stickers, the state name, or the required identification numbers. Always check your local vehicle code.
Q: Will a metal frame scratch my car’s paint?
A: A metal frame can scratch your paint if it rubs against the car body. This usually happens if the frame is loose or if it lacks any backing protection. Look for frames with built-in rubber bumpers or add thin foam tape yourself.
Q: How do I clean my license plate frame?
A: For metal frames, use mild soap and water and a soft cloth. For stubborn dirt or water spots, a non-abrasive metal polish works well. Avoid harsh chemicals, especially on plastic or coated frames.
Q: Should I use the screws that come with the frame?
A: If the frame came with stainless steel screws, use them. They resist rust. If the screws look cheap or are made of regular steel, buy new stainless steel screws. Rusty screws look bad fast.
Q: Are novelty frames legal everywhere?
A: Many states restrict frames that have excessive decoration or cover too much of the plate. Frames that light up or have large 3D elements are often illegal because they distract drivers or block the plate view.
Q: How many screws do I need for my frame?
A: Most standard frames use four screws—two on the top and two on the bottom. If your car only has two holes, use those two, but make sure the frame is tight so it doesn’t droop.
Q: Does a frame affect my car’s resale value?
A: No, a license plate frame does not affect your car’s resale value. However, a frame that is rusted out or damaged might make a buyer think the previous owner did not care for the car well.
Q: What is the difference between a ‘trim’ frame and a ‘full coverage’ frame?
A: A trim frame is very thin, only outlining the plate edges. A full coverage frame has a thicker border that covers a bit more of the plate’s edge area.
Q: Can I use a frame from my old car on my new one?
A: Usually, yes, if both cars are registered in the same region (like the U.S.). Just make sure the new car’s mounting points line up correctly with the frame’s holes.
Q: Are colored plastic frames durable?
A: They are less durable than metal. The color can fade significantly under constant sunlight (UV rays). They are best for vehicles kept mostly in garages or for temporary use.