Giving readers the important information they need to know about electric vehicle tags
Across the world, industries are being reshaped by the global effort to build a greener and more sustainable future. Within the used motor vehicle market, a shift in consumer interest and demand has led to an increase in popularity for second hand electric vehicles. Buyers are becoming increasingly eco-conscious and, as a result, more informed about the EV market.
Although EVs may resemble your everyday car, they are classed differently from regular internal combustion engine (ICE) cars due to their electric power source. Changing times means changing regulations that buyers need to adapt to, with the use of electric vehicle tags becoming a necessity for EV drivers. If you’re in the market for a used EV but are needing more information about tags, read on for our guide below.
What are EV tags?
TEV tags are safety labels that are attached to the front and rear number plates of all EVs (including hybrid vehicles). All EV and hybrid vehicle tags are a retroreflective blue triangle with the letters 'EV' in white capital letters, while hydrogen vehicles use a 'H' with the same colour scheme. The tags are crucial for ensuring that emergency services can identify EVs and safely handle fires, crash rescues or other incidents.
Do you need an EV tag in Australia?
As of 1 January 2026, Australian owners of electric (including hybrid) or hydrogen vehicles manufactured or modified on or after 1 January 2019 are required to display the EV or H labels on the front and rear number plates on their vehicle. Whether you are searching for EV tags in New South Wales or Queensland, be sure to refer to your state's EV tag requirements below:
Why are EV tags important?
They may only be small, but EV tags are essential to assist emergency services in quickly identifying electric or hydrogen powered vehicles. Displaying a label enables emergency workers to identify these vehicles quickly, take the appropriate precautions and adapt their response accordingly to keep everyone safe.
States across Australia are taking the steps needed to institute the use of these labels going forward, with all electric (including hybrid) or hydrogen vehicles manufactured or modified on or after 1 January 2019 required to display the EV or H labels on the front and rear number plates on their vehicle.
Where to buy EV tags
Looking for where to buy EV tags in Australia? Lucky for you, EV tags are accessible across the country and can be found in auto parts stores like Repco, Supercheap Auto and through online marketplaces like eBay. You can also purchase the tags from your state's government transport department or organisations like the Australian Electric Vehicle Association (AEVA).
How to install EV Tags
EV tags are typically applied with an adhesive sticker, usually when registered for the first time at the dealership, with guidelines for how it should be fitted. For customers fitting the tag themselves, you must:
- Attach Tag: The tag must be affixed to a plate made of metal that is at least 1mm thick
- Secure Location: Place it on both the front and rear number plates.
- Label Specifications: Ensure the shape is an equilateral triangular where each side has width of 30mm in length and each interior angle of which is 60º.
- Vehicle Identification: The label is marked 'EV' in white capital letters that are at least 8mm high and have the orientation shown in the example.
- Adjust Position: Fix the number plates so that the letters on the label are in an upright position.
- Ensure Visibility: Make sure that the tag does not wholly or partly obscure any characters on the number plates.
It's worth noting that from 2025 residents of NSW will be able purchase EVs with number plates that have been manufactured with built-in safety labels, rather than an adhesive sticker fitted by a dealership or a customer.
Does Pickles stock EV Tags?
If you are searching the used market for EVs, you are bound to come across Pickles and our extensive selection of vehicles. Though Pickles provides offers and displays data on electric vehicle (EV) battery health, we do not stock EV tags, however a large number of the EVs purchased from Pickles already have tags applied.
With demand for used EVs on the rise and Australia's electrified fleet rapidly expanding, Pickles' bold move sets a new benchmark for transparency, innovation and trust in the auction industry. Be sure to explore Pickles' wide range of EVs, or visit our website to browse a selection of vehicles, machinery, industrial equipment and more.
31 Oct