How does the new vehicle registration system work?

The new vehicle registration system, known as SIV, was rolled out on April 15, 2009, for new vehicles. A few months later, on October 15, 2009, the SIV was also extended to include used vehicles. The SIV replaces the FNI (Fichier National des Immatriculations), which was established in the 1950s and required reform due to IT and administrative constraints. As a result, license plates have transitioned from the “1234 AB 12” registration format to “AB-123-AB.”

Designed to simplify and streamline administrative tasks for both motorists and authorities, improve the visibility of license plate numbers, and replace an aging system, the SIV was created. How does this new system work?

License Plate Numbering

This new numbering system offers nearly 228 million possibilities. License plates range from “AA-001-AA” to “ZZ-999-ZZ.” Within this set of combinations, the system excludes the letters “I,” “O,” “U,” and the sequence “SS.” The left side of the plate features the European symbol, while the right side displays the logo of the user’s chosen region along with that region’s department number. For cars, the information is displayed on a single line, whereas motorcycle license plates use a two-line format to reduce the plate’s width.

A unique edition for the automotive industry

The major change with this new registration system is that the license plate number remains the same throughout the vehicle’s lifetime or upon export. A significant benefit for owners is that they no longer need to apply for new plates or updated registration documents when moving to a new residence. Furthermore, the process for requesting registration papers can now be completed anywhere in France, rather than being restricted to one’s local department.

Who is affected by this reform?

If you own a vehicle, are not selling it, and are not moving without updating your civil status, you may keep your current license plates. However, as soon as you purchase a new used or new vehicle, you must either keep the existing plates if they are new (SIV) or order new license plates.