Trade Plate Licence

Motor traders and repairers with a valid garage code may apply to Laois County Council for a trade plate to transport unregistered or untaxed vehicles on the road.

What are trade plates?

Trade plates are special registration plates available to motor traders. The uses of the plate are limited to legal reasons in connection with the motor trade.  These plates are issued for a period of one calendar year. 

How can I get a trade plate?

You will need to provide the following to get trade plates: 

  1. A garage code (issued by the Vehicle Registration Unit, Department of Transport) 
  2. RF700 Trade Licence application form 
  3. Evidence of VAT registration (or where turnover does not exceed the minimum amount for VAT, the RSI number of the applicant). 
  4. Evidence of valuation for rating purposes of the premises (a rates invoice or letter is accepted). If the premises are new and not yet valued, proof of planning permission will suffice. 
  5. Motor trade insurance certificate. 
  6. Fee of €353 for a set of 2 plates.  

When can trade plates be used?

Lawful uses of these plates include: 

  • The testing or trial of a vehicle during construction or repair, or directly after completing the works. 
  • To show the vehicle to a potential buyer 
  • Delivering a vehicle from the licence holder to the premises of another motor trader or visa versa. 
  • To go to a location to service a vehicle that has broken down or return to a garage with a vehicle in tow. 
  • It is an offence to display an expired/forged plate or to use it outside the legal reasons. 

It is the responsibility of the motor trader to dispose of these plates once they expire at end of the year.  

What do I need to replace damaged/lost trade plates?

  1. RF700 – Trade Plate application form. Please quote the number of the destroyed/lost/stolen plate in section C. 
  2. RF134 Replacement form which must be signed and stamped by your local Garda Station. 
  3. Fee of €86

Note that replacement plates will have a different number to the original issued plate. If only one plate from a pair was lost or destroyed, both will be replaced. 

Motorcycle trade plates

Please contact us in advance if you require motorcycle plates as we don’t carry them in stock and will have to be ordered.  

What is the cost for a motorcycle trade plate?

A single square plate is €59 and a replacement is €38. 

Further information

If you have any other queries, please contact us directly at 057 8664009 or email motortax@laoiscoco.ie.