Distinguishing sign on cars by country
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
Whether a car must show a country sign on the rear and when the country code on the number plate replaces it. Pick a country for the full list of rules, each with its official source.
| Country | Separate rear sign required on a foreign-registered car | Country sign on an EU plate accepted instead of a separate sign | Own plate with country code replaces the sticker abroad | Country sign used |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | Yes, extra rear sign | Yes, sign at left of plate | Yes, in the EU | D |
| Netherlands | ⚠ Not yet verified | Yes, per EU Regulation | Yes, in the EU | NL |
| United Kingdom | ⚠ Not yet verified | Yes, EU plate sign recognised | Yes, UK + flag (not ES, CY, MT) | UK |
| France | ⚠ Not yet verified | Yes, per EU Regulation | Yes, in the EU | F |
| Spain | Yes, rear oval sign | Yes, per EU Regulation | Yes, in the EU | E |
| Italy | Yes, rear sign | Yes, per EU Regulation | Yes, in the EU | I |
| Ireland | ⚠ Not yet verified | Yes, per EU Regulation | Yes, in the EU | IRL |
| Hungary | Yes; EU plate accepted | Yes, per EU Regulation | Yes, in the EU | H |
| Finland | Yes, nationality sign of home state | Yes, sign at left of EU plate (EU rule) | Yes: FIN on the EU plate | FIN |
Before you rely on it
This comparison covers national rules. Regional or local rules can apply on top of them, and rules change. A rule marked “to verify” has not yet been confirmed against an official source. Each country page links to the official sources, and those are the place to confirm the details before you act.
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.