Installing a front license plate is an easier task only if the car comes with predrilled holes. If it’s not, then the job can be complicated since it needs to drill a hole in the bumper. So, learning how to drill holes for front license plate can be a handy experience.
Many states in the USA don’t require license plates, but still, it is essential to show identification of the car. Apart from this, drilling a hole in the bumper demands the proper procedure as it is related to the car’s beauty and tradition as well.
How to install Front License Plate
Today we will discuss the proper way of drilling holes in the front of the car to attach the license plate. The method doesn’t require much effort. Plus, it’s a user-friendly and safe process to install the front license plate.
Tools Required:
- A center punch
- Drill bit for Iron metal
- Countersink bit
- And safety equipment likes glasses and gloves
Check the front bumper
Before planning to attach the incense plate, check whether the front bumper is metallic or fiberglass. Usually, drilling a hole into plexiglass is easier than metal. If it’s a chrome bumper, you should keep away from drilling it and apply an alternative method. Still, if you are willing to drill a hole for the front license plate, the tools will be required:
Find out the centre point of the bumper
Attaching the front license plate anywhere on the bumper will look awkward. Conversely, fixing it in the center of the bumper will look cool. So, measure the bumper length using a measuring tape and find the center of the bumper. Once marking the lengthways center, measure the height of the bumper to locate the center of the highway. Now place the front license plate over the exact center point.
Mark the drilling point through the holes in the bracket
Now hold the license plate bracket at the bumper’s center point and find the pre-drilled hole on the plate. Then mark the spot where you desire to drill a hole using a marker pen. If there is no pre-drilled hole, then directly mark it on the bumper where you need to drill a hole.
Start with a pilot hole
Once you have marked the bumper, keep the front license plate away. Take your drill and insert a 1⁄8 inch drill bit into it to drill a thin pilot hole in the bumper. Don’t make the depth of the pilot hole over 1⁄8 inch into the bumper. If you have a chrome bumper, you will have to create a hole using a center punch. Then you can start drilling the pilot holes.
Start drilling
Now it’s time to wear safety goggles and gloves. Then take your center punch and hammer to make a notch in the desired spot. Place masking tape around the spot so it can avoid the drill bit slipping. Attach the drill bit to metal into the drill and place it perpendicular to the surface.
Start with steady and firm pressure to drill a hole into the crome for attaching the front license plate. While drilling, apply some lubricant to reduce friction and keep the drill bit cool. Once you have created the hole, switch the drill bit to the countersink bit. Rotate it to remove the metal debris from the hole’s leading edge.
Mount the bracket to the bumper
Hold the bracket over the bumper and make sure its mounting hole stays in line with the recently drilled hole. Now turn the screw clockwise to mount the bracket to the bumper.
Attach the license plate to the bumper
Now line the license plates corner hole with the hole of the bracket’s corners. Finally, secure the front license plate to the bumper by driving the screw clockwise, and this way the installation ends. But if you don’t use a bracket, place the license plate directly on the bumper and secure it with a screw.
FAQs on How to Drill holes for front license plate
How to attach a license plate on the vehicle without drilling a hole?
There are ample ways to put the license plate to the front without drilling. You can apply a type of Adhesive-Mounted Bracket or install a tow hook bracket. These are easier to apply and don’t require much effort.
Can I attach the front license plate to the window?
You can’t display the front license plate in the front or rear window. It must be fixed to the front or rear bumper of the car. The driver should keep the license plate readable and clear. Plus, he/she should keep the plate free from dust and other dirty materials.
How to Install a License Plate Frame?
Most vehicles have holes to mount a license plate frame. Put the license plate framework on the bumper and make it secure using screws. It is better to check the vehicle’s user manual if there are any particular instructions for installing a license plate frame.
Final words
Some of the vehicle front license plate brackets make the installation of license plates easier. But if your cars don’t have them, it’s nothing to worry about as you have learned the way of dealing with the issues.
Learning how to drill holes for the front license plate will make the task easier and safer. Just follow the instructions we have shared above and install your front license plate easily if your state requires it.
