The joy of buying a new car is undeniable. You can’t help but feel that you’ve arrived. “Mama, I’ve made it”. It is a feeling everyone should experience in their lifetime.
However, when you purchase a new car, you will be given temporary plates that you can use to drive the car until the permanent plates are ready and sent to you.
Since temporary plates are designed to be used for a short period, usually until permanent plates are issued, are temporary plates waterproof?
No, temporary plates are not waterproof rather, they are water resistant because they are made of materials such as lightweight plastic or Teslin that have some level of protection against water.
Are Temporary Plates Waterproof?
Temporary plates are not waterproof but are water resistant because they are made of materials like paper, lightweight plastic, or Teslin which is a synthetic paper that can handle rain, snow, and car washes.
The reason why temporary plates are not waterproof is because of the materials they are made of. These materials have some level of water resistance but are not completely waterproof like materials used in permanent plates.
When we say that something is water-resistant, we mean that it is resistant to the penetration of water to a certain degree. Waterproof items are designed to prevent water from entering or damaging them even when they’re exposed to wet conditions.
For example, waterproof clothing, like rain jackets or boots, is made from materials that repel water and keep the wearer dry even in rainy weather.
Therefore, the difference between waterproof and water-resistant lies in how well they repel water.
Waterproof
- Creates a complete barrier against water.
- Can withstand full submersion without letting water in.
- Ideal for situations with heavy rain, splashing, or being submerged (like raincoats for heavy downpours, dive suits).
- Often uses sealed seams and layered materials for extra protection.
- It can be less breathable due to the tighter construction.
Water Resistant
- Repels water to some degree, but not entirely.
- It can handle light rain, spills, or splashes for a short time.
- Not suitable for prolonged exposure to heavy rain or submersion.
- May use a water-repellent coating or tightly woven fabric for resistance.
- Generally more breathable than waterproof materials.
Imagine water droplets hitting the material, the droplets bead up and roll right off, leaving the surface completely dry for waterproofing, while in water resistant, the droplets might bead up initially, but with continued exposure, they will eventually soak into the material.
Nevertheless, when it comes to license plates, a waterproof plate would mean that it can withstand exposure to water without being damaged or becoming unreadable.
Unfortunately, temporary plates do not offer that, and it’s all thanks to the materials used in making them. Also, it’s for the fact that it is to be used for a short time until your permanent plates are ready.
For example, if the temporary license plates given to you are made from paper, you don’t expect it to be waterproof. It can absorb water and become soggy, making it difficult to read the information on the temporary plate.
Even if the paper is coated or laminated to provide some protection against moisture, it can still be affected by prolonged exposure to rain or other wet conditions.
On the other hand, lightweight plastic materials used for temporary plates may not be completely waterproof. They can still allow water to seep through or cause the ink to run if the plate gets soaked.
Therefore, while temporary plates may have some measures in place to make them more resistant to water, they are not as durable or waterproof as permanent plates, which are made of sturdier materials designed to withstand various weather conditions.
How to Make Temporary Plates Waterproof
To make your temporary license plates more resistant to water, you can try the following methods:
1. Laminate the Plates
If you’re given temporary plates that are not studier to repel water, you can make it waterproof by laminating the plates.
Purchase transparent laminate sheets and carefully cover your temporary license plates with them to create a protective layer that helps repel water and prevent the ink from running if the plates get wet.
However, before laminating the plates, ensure they are clean and dry.
- Measure the size of your license plates and cut the laminate sheets slightly larger than the plates to ensure full coverage.
- Peel off the backing of the laminate sheet and carefully place your license plate in the center.
- Press down firmly to adhere the plate to the laminate.
- Use a ruler or your fingers to smooth out any air bubbles and ensure a tight seal around the edges of the plate.
- Use scissors or a paper trimmer to trim away any excess laminate, leaving a small border around the edges of the plate.
- Finally, you must let the laminated plates dry completely before handling them or attaching them to your vehicle.
Nevertheless, while laminating temporary plates creates a protective barrier that helps repel water and prevent damage to the plates, if the laminating is not properly done, it can cause reduced visibility of the plates, especially in low-light conditions or when viewed from certain angles, making it difficult for law enforcement or automated systems to read the plate, resulting in enforcement issues or penalties.
2. Use Waterproof Sprays or Coatings
Using waterproof sprays or coatings is another method to make temporary license plates more resistant to water. It can help protect temporary license plates from water damage, ensuring they remain legible and intact even in wet conditions.
Look for waterproof sprays or coatings designed for use on paper or plastic surfaces. These products are usually available at hardware stores, automotive stores, or online.
However, before applying the spray or coating, make sure your temporary license plates are clean and free of any dirt, dust, or debris. Use a mild detergent and water to gently clean the plates if necessary, and allow them to dry completely before proceeding.
While applying the coating, follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the waterproof spray or coating you’re using. You may need to shake the spray can well, holding it a certain distance away from the plates, and spraying an even coat over the entire surface of the plates.
After applying the spray or coating, allow the plates to dry completely. Once the plates are dry, test their water resistance by spraying them lightly with water or exposing them to a damp cloth.
If the water beads up or rolls off the surface of the plates without causing damage or smudging the ink, the waterproof spray or coating has been effective.
However, before using this method, ensure it is not against the laws of your state of residence. Do not use anything that will alter the appearance of the plates. If the coating will change the color or alter the plates, please do not use it. It has to be as transparent as from the day it was given to you.
3. Seal the Edges
If your temporary plates are made of paper, consider sealing the edges with clear tape to prevent water from seeping in through the sides.
Look for a clear, waterproof sealant that is compatible with the material of your license plates. Silicone sealants or clear waterproof tapes are commonly used for this purpose.
Use a small brush or applicator to apply a thin, even layer of sealant along the edges of the license plates. Be careful not to apply too much, as excess sealant can create a messy appearance and may not adhere properly.
Moreover, before applying the sealant, make sure the edges of your license plates are clean and free of any dirt, debris, or residue.
After applying the sealant, use a clean finger or a tool to smooth out any excess and ensure a tight seal along the edges of the plates to prevent water from seeping in between the sealant and the plate.
Let the sealant dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This may take several hours or overnight, depending on the type of sealant used and the environmental conditions.
Once the sealant is dry, test the water resistance of the license plates by spraying them lightly with water or exposing them to a damp cloth.
If the water beads up and rolls off the edges of the plates without causing damage or seeping underneath the sealant, it means that the edges are properly sealed.
4. Use Protective Plastic Sleeves
Purchase plastic sleeves or holders designed for license plates and attach them to the plates. They can provide an extra layer of protection against water while keeping your plates visible and legible.
You can buy these plastic sleeves in automotive stores, online retailers, or through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
When you purchase the sleeves, slide your temporary license plates into them and ensure they fit snugly and are fully enclosed within the sleeves. The sleeves should cover the entire surface of the plates, providing protection from water, dirt, and other elements.
However, some plastic sleeves come with adhesive backing or built-in fasteners to secure them to the vehicle. If your sleeves have adhesive backing, peel off the protective film and press the sleeves firmly onto the vehicle’s bumper or license plate bracket. You can also use zip ties or screws to attach the sleeves securely.
Meanwhile, while using the plastic sleeves, ensure that the information on your license plates is still visible and unobstructed by the sleeves.
Adjust the positioning of the sleeves if necessary to ensure the plates are fully visible to law enforcement and other motorists. Trust me, you don’t want anything that will put you in the hands of the police pulling you over.
Be that as it may, if you don’t feel comfortable using any of the aforementioned methods, you can just avoid driving when it’s raining. Once it starts raining, you can park your car under a shield to protect the plates from the rain.
When you want to wash the car, avoid going through a car wash with the plates and touchless carwash that involves water spraying. You can gently use your hands or get someone who will hand wash the car, paying close attention to the plates.
Conclusion
Temporary plates are not waterproof rather, they are water-resistant because they are made of materials that are at least somewhat resistant to water, such as lightweight plastic or Teslin.
In as much as these materials can still absorb water to some extent, they are less prone to damage from moisture compared to materials like regular paper.
Also, if the plates are coated or treated with water-resistant substances during the manufacturing process. The coatings can help repel water and prevent it from soaking into the material or causing the ink to ruin.
