License plate lights are inexpensive bulbs you can replace yourself in most vehicles
A license plate light replacement takes 10 to 30 minutes and costs between $5 and $30 for the bulb itself, depending on your vehicle model. Most cars use a standard incandescent or LED bulb that screws or clips into a socket mounted on or near the license plate frame. You do not need a mechanic — the job requires only a screwdriver or your hands, depending on how your light assembly attaches.
The reason to fix it promptly: a burned-out license plate light is a traffic violation in all 50 states. Police can stop you for it, and some jurisdictions issue citations. More importantly, it makes your plate unreadable at night, which creates liability if you're involved in an accident or hit-and-run situation.
Key Takeaways
- Most license plate lights use a standard bulb (typically 194, 168, or 921 size) that costs $3 to $15 and takes 10 minutes to swap.
- The light assembly usually clips or screws into the bumper or frame — check your owner's manual to find the exact location and attachment method for your vehicle.
- You will need only a screwdriver (flathead or Phillips, depending on your car) or sometimes just your hands to remove the assembly.
- If the bulb is not the problem, the socket itself may be corroded or the wiring may be damaged, which requires a mechanic or replacement of the entire light unit.
Locating your license plate light assembly
License plate lights are mounted directly above or below your rear license plate, usually on the bumper or the body panel just above it. Some vehicles have one light centered above the plate; others have two lights, one on each side. Look at your license plate at night with the headlights on — you should see a small light shining on the plate. If it is not lit, that is the one you need to replace.
Your vehicle's owner's manual will show the exact location and how the assembly attaches. If you do not have the manual, search your vehicle's year, make, and model plus "license plate light location" online, or ask a parts store employee — they can often tell you in seconds.
Getting the right bulb for your vehicle
License plate lights use one of three standard bulb sizes: 194, 168, or 921. The easiest way to find yours is to remove the old bulb and look at the number printed on its base, or check your owner's manual. You can also take a photo of your license plate light assembly and show it to an auto parts store — they will identify the correct bulb.
Bulbs come in incandescent (the traditional warm white) or LED (brighter, longer-lasting, and slightly more expensive). LED bulbs typically cost $8 to $15, while incandescent bulbs run $3 to $8. Both fit the same socket. Some people upgrade to LED for better visibility and durability, but either type works.
Removing the light assembly
Most license plate light assemblies attach with either a single screw or a plastic clip. Look at the edges of the light housing — if you see a screw head, use a screwdriver (usually flathead) to turn it counterclockwise until the assembly comes loose. If you see a clip or tab, gently pry the assembly away from the bumper with a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail.
Once the assembly is loose, pull it straight out toward you. You may need to wiggle it slightly. The bulb socket will either be attached to the back of the assembly or connected by a short wire. If it is attached to the assembly, you can work on it right there. If it is connected by a wire, do not pull hard — the wire is fragile.
Replacing the bulb and reinstalling
The bulb sits in a socket and is held in place by either a screw base (you turn it counterclockwise to remove) or a push-in base (you push in and twist counterclockwise, or straightforward pull straight out). Remove the old bulb and insert the new one in the same orientation — it will only fit one way. If it does not slide in easily, you are trying the wrong angle.
Once the new bulb is in, push the light assembly back into its mounting hole and find it with the screw or clip. Turn on your headlights to confirm the new light works. If it does not light up, the bulb may not be seated fully, the socket may be corroded, or there may be a wiring problem — in that case, you will need a mechanic to diagnose further.
When the bulb is not the problem
If you installed a new bulb and the light still does not work, the issue is likely a corroded socket, a broken wire, or a blown fuse. Corrosion inside the socket is common in older vehicles or in areas with salt air or heavy moisture. You can try cleaning the socket contacts with a pencil eraser or fine sandpaper, then reinstalling the bulb.
If cleaning does not work, or if you see visible damage to the wiring, the light assembly itself may need to be replaced rather than just the bulb. Replacement assemblies cost $15 to $50 depending on your vehicle. A mechanic can diagnose and replace it, or you can order a new assembly online and install it yourself using the same removal and installation steps.
Tools and supplies you will need
| Item | Why You Need It | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement bulb (194, 168, or 921) | The actual light source | $3–$15 |
| Screwdriver (flathead or Phillips) | To remove the light assembly or bulb | $0 (likely already at home) |
| Owner's manual or online guide | To locate the light and identify the bulb size | Free |
| Pencil eraser or fine sandpaper (optional) | To clean a corroded socket if the new bulb does not work | $0–$2 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with a burned-out license plate light?
Technically no — it is a traffic violation. Police can stop you and issue a citation. More importantly, if you are in an accident or hit-and-run situation, the missing light makes your plate unreadable, which creates legal and insurance complications. Fix it as soon as you notice it is out.
What if I cannot find the right bulb size?
Take your vehicle to an auto parts store (AutoZone, O'Reilly, Advance Auto Parts, or a local shop) and show them your license plate light assembly or a photo of it. They will identify the correct bulb in seconds and sell it to you on the spot. This service is free.
Is it safe to replace the bulb myself if I have never done it before?
Yes. The job involves no electrical risk — the light operates on low voltage and you are only swapping a bulb, not rewiring anything. The worst that can happen is you install the bulb backward (it will not light, and you straightforward turn it around) or you drop the assembly (it is plastic and usually survives). Take your time and follow your owner's manual.
How long does a license plate light bulb last?
Incandescent bulbs typically last 500 to 1,000 hours of use, which translates to several years of normal driving. LED bulbs last 10,000 to 50,000 hours, so they may outlast your vehicle. If you replace it with LED, you likely will not need to replace it again.
What if the light assembly is cracked or broken?
If the plastic housing is cracked or the lens is cloudy, replacing just the bulb will not help. You will need to replace the entire assembly. Order a replacement online for your vehicle's year, make, and model, or buy one at an auto parts store. Installation uses the same steps as bulb replacement.