License Plate Bolt
Representative Photo, actual item may vary
What Are License Plate Bolts and Why Do They Matter?
License plate bolts may be small, but they play an outsized role in keeping your vehicle street-legal and your plate looking its best. Whether you ride a motorcycle, a cruiser, or a dirt bike with a tag kit, the right fasteners ensure your plate stays firmly mounted through vibration, rough roads, and the elements. A missing or loose plate is not only an eyesore — it can result in a traffic stop. Choosing the right license plate hardware means never worrying about that again.
Unlike generic hardware store fasteners, purpose-built license plate bolts are engineered specifically for vehicles. They account for the thread sizing common on motorcycle and automotive mounting points, resist corrosion from road grime and weather, and — in some cases — add a custom look that standard bolts simply cannot deliver. From stainless steel and zinc-plated button heads to hand-tightening nylon thumb screws, the right choice depends on your application, your tool preference, and how much style you want to inject into a small detail.
What to Look for When Buying License Plate Bolts
- Material: Stainless steel and zinc-plated steel resist rust and hold up to road salt and moisture. Nylon options are completely rust-proof and require no tools to install.
- Locking Mechanism: Look for nylon locking nuts (nylock nuts) that resist vibration loosening — critical for motorcycles where engine vibration is constant.
- Thread Size: Most motorcycle license plate mounts use M6 metric threads. Confirm your bike's specification before ordering.
- Style: Button-head Allen bolts offer a low-profile, finished appearance. LED illuminated bolts add both function and flair for nighttime visibility.
- Pack Size: Fasteners are typically sold in sets of four — enough for a standard two-hole or four-hole plate mount — or in bulk packs for shops and frequent swappers.
Top Brands in License Plate Bolts
BOLT MC Hardware is a California-based specialty manufacturer dedicated entirely to motorcycle fasteners and hardware kits. Their license plate fastener kits are available in both steel and nylon construction, with steel kits featuring button Allen head bolts, washers, and nylock nuts, and nylon kits that install completely tool-free and will not rust or corrode. BOLT MC Hardware designs and assembles their products with careful attention to OEM fit, reviewing new motorcycle models each year to keep their lineup current.
K&S Technologies has been producing quality aftermarket parts for street and dirt bikes, ATVs, and UTVs since 1976. Their license plate bolt offerings include an illuminated option featuring bright white LEDs built directly into stainless steel bolt housings — a clever upgrade that adds legal plate lighting while eliminating the need for a separate light assembly. It's a favorite among custom builders and anyone looking to clean up their motorcycle's tail section.