Transitioning to a Standardized License Plate Model in Morocco
As the deadline of December 31 approaches for the replacement of old license plates in Morocco, printing and engraving shops are already experiencing a surge in customers. This reform is aimed at introducing a standardized and modern visual model across the entire national vehicle fleet. The change, which gradually replaces previous formats and stickers with embossed characters in both Arabic and Latin scripts, addresses the dual challenges of national harmonization and compliance with international traffic standards.
The most significant innovation is the integration of Latin characters alongside Arabic ones. The structure of the license plate number remains intact, but each Arabic letter is now accompanied by its Latin equivalent. Additionally, the designation "MA," which was previously applied separately for vehicles operating abroad, is now directly incorporated into the plate.
At a printing facility in the Bourgogne district, each step of the plate manufacturing process is executed almost mechanically. The numbers are placed one by one, followed by the "MA" and the corresponding characters. Once everything is correctly aligned, the plate is fed into the press. A few seconds of operation, a metallic sound, and then the new number emerges on the white surface. In total, it takes about fifteen minutes for the plate to be fully prepared for attachment to the vehicle.
Cost and Production Details of New License Plates
Two finishes are offered, with prices varying according to the quality of materials used. "Standard white plates start at 150 dirhams, with higher-quality models priced at 170 dirhams, while premium versions can reach up to 200 dirhams," explains Saïd, an employee. Reflective plates stand out for their ability to reflect light, thus providing improved visibility.
Throughout the manufacturing process, the technician's movements remain precise: placing, aligning, pressing, and then painting. After the plate emerges from the machine, it undergoes a final step. "After placing the numbers and the 'MA,' I proceed to paint. I turn on the machine and add the thinner and paint," he explains as the roller coats the plate.
These technical modifications stem mainly from a desire for harmonization. The NARSA (National Road Safety Agency) indicates that the reform aims to resolve practical difficulties arising from the coexistence of different plates depending on whether the vehicle is operating in Morocco or abroad. The new model is thus designed to function in both scenarios, featuring a common format and dimensions. "It's primarily for those traveling abroad, so that all plates are uniform," summarizes one young man.
However, the reform does not imply that all motorists must immediately replace their plates. Vehicles already registered in the normal series and bearing plates without Latin characters can continue to use them until the first transfer of ownership. Conversely, for vehicles used in international traffic that already have Latin characters and a separate "MA" designation, the old plates will remain valid only until December 31, 2026. The new model has already been implemented for new registration operations since the decision was published, whether for new vehicles acquired in Morocco or imported new or used vehicles.
In Casablanca, some motorists are already taking proactive steps. A customer replacing his plate believes that unification will facilitate travel and reduce misunderstandings at border crossings. "It's a good thing that the plates are standardized to avoid traffic issues. There were difficulties when trying to exit the country or return, especially with security checks," he shares.
For him, there's no need to wait until the last minute. "I came today to change the plate before it gets too crowded. Better to do it now and avoid any inconvenience," he adds. In the workshops, this anticipation could become the next challenge. While the transition is gradual, professionals expect demand to increase as the deadline approaches. "We know there will be a lot of traffic towards the end; we've seen this before," estimates one professional.
For manufacturers, the countdown has already begun. For motorists, the change may be less dramatic than it seems: just a few additional letters and an integrated "MA," but importantly, it marks the end of the distinction between the plates used in Morocco and those that needed to be adapted for border crossings.
As reported by fr.le360.ma.
