How to Wire a Light in a License Plate
by Jennifer SimonAll vehicles in the United States are required to illuminate the license plate at night, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. If the headlights and taillights are turned on, the rear license plate also should be lit. Most vehicles are equipped with license plate lights but if one is not mounted on a vehicle, the owner must install it. Failure to comply with vehicle lighting standards could result in a fine.
Step 1
Purchase a license plate light fixture as well as a light bulb. The PM Lights website states that a variety of license plate lights are available, so one should be chosen that will adequately light the plate and match the car's design or color. Determine the proper position to mount the license plate light.
Step 2
Drill a mounting hole on the underside of the mounting area. The PM Lights website explains that the light needs to be mounted on bare metal in order to create an electrical connection. Mount and secure the license plate light onto the back of the vehicle using the screws or bolts that were provided.
Step 3
The E Trailer website explains that most lighting systems are powered by a direct-current system with two wired ends. A positive and negative terminal is required for the light to work.
Step 4
Ground the light's electrical connection by making sure that the light is placed on bare metal underneath the mounting location. The E Trailer website explains that the vehicle's chassis is connected to the negative terminal of the battery. Mounting the light on the bare metal provides the grounding that is required for the light to work.
Step 5
Locate the wire that controls the taillight circuit in order to establish the positive terminal. Connect the wire from the license plate light to the wire from the taillight circuit. The ends of the wires must be spliced in order for them to be connected. Secure the wires together and test the light to make sure that it works correctly.
References
Tips
- Carry extra light bulbs so that the light can be repaired in a timely manner.
Things You'll Need
- License plate light
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Wire connector
- Wire splicer
Writer Bio
Jennifer Simon has been a copywriter since 2007, a copyeditor since 2004 and currently teaches English Composition at Full Sail University. Her edited articles have appeared in "The Washington Post," "The Huffington Post" and "The Network Journal." Simon has a Master of Arts degree from Duquesne University with a focus in modern English grammar, linguistics and editing.
