What Kind of License Plate is a Black License Plate on a Sedan?
2 Answers
Black license plates are for foreign-related vehicles, which are generally quite rare. They are categorized into foreign vehicles of embassies in China, foreign vehicles of consulates, and other foreign-related vehicle license plates. Below is relevant information about black license plates: 1. Types: A black license plate with a red "Embassy" character indicates a foreign vehicle of an embassy in China; one with a red "Consulate" character denotes a foreign vehicle of a consulate; other foreign-related vehicle license plates feature black background with white characters. 2. Scope: Foreign enterprises (including those from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan); institutions of foreign countries and international organizations stationed in China, vehicles purchased by foreigners in their personal names for driving in China, vehicles entering from Hong Kong, Macau (Taiwan), and foreign countries; temporary license plates for vehicles temporarily detained by customs, or vehicles of confidential institutions.
I always think about the story of black license plates. Vehicles from Hong Kong and Macau entering mainland China use black plates with white characters, a practice dating back to the 1980s. At that time, the reform and opening-up policy made it convenient for compatriots from Hong Kong and Macau to travel in and out, and the traffic authorities designated this design to facilitate border management and avoid confusion with blue plates. Nowadays, it mainly applies to vehicles entering from Hong Kong and Macau or long-term foreign vehicles, such as those driving across the Shenzhen Bay for self-guided tours. Different plate colors represent regional differences, but the driving rules remain the same. In mainland China, blue plates are for ordinary vehicles, yellow for large vehicles, green for new energy vehicles, and black serves as an identifier for foreign vehicles. With the popularization of new energy vehicles, black plates have decreased but still retain their uniqueness. It's recommended to learn more about license plates to enrich your automotive cultural experience. If you plan to drive to Hong Kong or Macau, remember to complete all the necessary plate-changing procedures, or you could face serious trouble if checked. Don’t be curious when you see a black-plated vehicle on the road—just drive normally.
