What is the difference between dark blue and light blue license plates?

[Luca]

The difference between dark blue and light blue license plates lies in the year of issuance: dark blue plates are from earlier periods, while light blue plates are more recent. A license plate, also known as a vehicle registration plate, is the official registration identifier for a motor vehicle. According to urban and highway traffic regulations, the vehicle license has been renamed as the vehicle registration certificate. Vehicle license plates are standardized in format and design as stipulated by national vehicle management regulations. They are issued by vehicle management authorities after reviewing, inspecting, and registering vehicles that have applied for plates. These plates are hard, numbered tags with unique registration codes. Commonly referred to as license plates, they are metal or plastic plates affixed to the front and rear of a vehicle, typically made of aluminum, sheet metal, plastic, or paper, displaying the vehicle's registration number, registration region, and other relevant information.

[ChristopherDella]

License plate colors distinguish vehicle types. Dark blue plates are the standard for ordinary small cars, and most private vehicles use this color. Light blue plates were previously used for agricultural vehicles or driving school cars, but they have been largely phased out now. Newly issued plates are dark blue, while light blue ones are mostly old plates from a decade ago. In some cases, prolonged exposure to sunlight and rain causes the plates to fade, turning dark blue into light blue. Additionally, printing techniques vary among license plate manufacturers in different provinces, resulting in slight differences in color shades. If your license plate color has noticeably faded, it's best to replace it at the vehicle management office to avoid being penalized for having a damaged or defaced plate.

[BriannaLynn]

I found that dark blue license plates are standard for fuel-powered small cars, while light blue plates are typically used for old-style training vehicles or special operation vehicles. The color difference mainly lies in the usage scenarios, with civilian vehicles generally using dark blue reflective film material. Light blue plates were previously common in third- and fourth-tier cities, but new regulations have now standardized them to dark blue. Additionally, license plate fading can turn dark blue into light blue, especially for cars parked outdoors for seven or eight years. It is recommended not to use corrosive cleaners to wipe license plates when washing the car to avoid accelerating fading.

[OOlive]

Dark blue license plates are the current standard color for small passenger vehicles, while light blue plates are mostly historical relics or faded. After the implementation of the new traffic regulations, the material of license plates has been updated, with reflective films being more durable and less prone to fading. Light blue plates appeared on special local vehicles in the 2000s and are now rarely seen. If you notice abnormal license plate colors, you can check for physical damage or illegal modifications. Avoiding prolonged exposure to sunlight during daily parking can extend the lifespan of license plates.