Distinguishing sign (nationality sticker) on cars in Italy (2026)

Last reviewed: 9 October 2026

In short: A foreign-registered car must carry its state's distinguishing sign at the rear in Italy. The sign on the left of an EU plate is recognised under Regulation (EC) No 2411/98.

RuleWhat applies
Separate rear sign required on a foreign-registered carCar with a distinguishing signYes [1]
Country sign on an EU plate accepted instead of a separate signCar with a distinguishing signYes [2]
Own plate with country code replaces the sticker abroadCar with a distinguishing signYes [2]
Country sign usedCar with a distinguishing signI [3]

Notes

  • Text consulted is the version published in the Gazzetta Ufficiale on 18 May 1992. Later amendments changed the fine, not the obligation in comma 1.
  • Under Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No 2411/98, member states that require a sign must recognise the sign on the left of an EU plate.
  • Italian plates carry the letter I in the blue EU band. EU member states must treat it as equivalent to a separate sign. It applies when driving in other EU member states.
  • The source is a police magazine article from 2005 describing the plate design.

Sources

  1. Gazzetta Ufficiale della Repubblica Italiana: Art. 133. Sigla distintiva dello Stato di immatricolazione (Nuovo codice della strada, D.Lgs. 285/1992; testo pubblicato il 18 maggio 1992) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  2. European Union (EUR-Lex): Council Regulation (EC) No 2411/98 of 3 November 1998 on the recognition in intra-Community traffic of the distinguishing sign of the Member State in which motor vehicles and their trailers are registered (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  3. Polizia di Stato (Poliziamoderna): A ciascun mezzo la sua (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.