From July, electric vehicles in Ireland will sport a distinctive green ‘flash’ on their registration plates, marking a new step in the country’s transition to cleaner transport.

The vertical green stripe, added to the left side of the plate, will make it easier to identify zero-emission vehicles — including electric cars, vans, motorbikes, buses, and trucks. The plates will be available for both new and existing EVs, with retrofitting options through registration plate suppliers.

Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien confirmed the rollout, saying it would begin in the coming weeks: “This initiative helps make electric vehicles more visible… It’s a small but effective step towards normalising zero-emission driving in Ireland.”

The move aligns Ireland with countries like the UK, Germany, and Norway, where distinct number plates for EVs are already in use. The plates aim to build public awareness, visibly reward greener choices, and reflect Ireland’s shift toward sustainable transport.

Over €100 million is being invested this year to support electric vehicle adoption and infrastructure, with continued government incentives to help make EVs more accessible.

Who can get one?

Any fully battery electric vehicle (BEV), and in future, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, will be eligible. The plate can be fitted at purchase or added later for existing owners.

Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe welcomed the change, noting Revenue systems are ready to support a smooth nationwide rollout.

Brian Cooke, Director General of SIMI, added that the new green flash arrives just as the 252 vehicle registration period kicks off, traditionally one of the busiest for new car sales: “With BEV sales rising and July being the second biggest sales month, we expect to see a strong uptake of the new green ‘flash’ plates on Irish roads.”

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