If you ever thought that all plate numbers in Nigeria are the same, then you are probably unaware of the various classes of plate numbers in Nigeria and what they signify.
The Nigerian plate number was changed three times before settling for the last one in 2011. In this article, we will talk about the various classes of plate numbers in Nigeria, what they mean and which class you should get for your vehicle.
So, let’s get right into it.
Special/ Fancy number plates
Contrary to the common belief that only politicians and popular figures use special number plates, the law permits every vehicle owner in Nigeria to use the special plate, as long as you can afford them. It has blue lettering on a white background.
Mass Transit number plates
This number plate is primarily set aside for commercial vehicles. It is distinguishable by its red lettering on a white background.
Read also: 8 Important Car Documents You Must Have to Drive on Nigerian Roads
The Private Number Plates
This class of plate number is solely reserved for private vehicles. It is the most common on Nigerian roads. It comes with blue lettering on a white background.
The School Bus Number Plates
This is the kind of number plate designed for school buses. It is the same as commercial plate numbers but different from private plate numbers. It has red lettering and white background.
The Government Number Plates
In Nigeria, the term “green plate number” is frequently used to refer to government license plates. You can recognize a government vehicle as soon as it has green lettering. It has the customary green lettering on a white background.
The Armed Forces/ Paramilitary Number Plates
The Nigerian Armed Forces’ number plates are another plate number you can see on Nigerian roads. Unlike others, It has a distinctive design, with the customary white background and black lettering.
The Diplomatic Corps Number Plates
The diplomatic corps number is the first in the diplomatic plate number category. Unlike others with a white background, it comes with a neon purple background and white lettering. Corps diplomats can only own this kind of number plate.
Read also: How to Check and Verify Your Vehicle Plate Number in Nigeria
The Corps Consulate Number Plates
The corps consulate plate number is the second in this category. It has a brown background with white lettering and is only driven by members of the corps consulate.
The Corps Technique Number Plates
The corps technique plate number is the third in this category. It features a navy blue background with white lettering.
The Temporary Number Plates
The last number on the list is the temporary plate number. It has a black background with white number lettering. Those who ride with this type of plate number are usually members of a special task force unit.
Final Recap
Not all plate numbers are the same in Nigeria. There are different classes for different purposes. You probably now know what plate number to get for your vehicle, but you are still wondering how to go about it. At Transtura, we help auto owners to connect with vetted and trusted vendors for vehicle documents, registration and renewals-related issues and deliver them to their doorsteps. Visit our website to learn more.
