Information taken from the VicRoads publication "Bike Rack Number Plates"

Bike Rack Number Plates

The registered operator af a vehicle must ensure that the numbers and letters on the vehicle's number plate are clearly visible from a distance of 20 metres.

If you have a bicycle rack fitted to your vehicle, and it obscures the rear number plate you can either:

• obtain a bike rack number plate from VicRoads and attach this to your bicycle rack.
• attach the rear number plate from your car to your bicycle rack when it is in use and then return it to your vehicle when you are not using the bicycle rack.

Please note that hand painted plates are not permitted to be used.

What is the Law?

Victoria Police may impose fines on motorists if:

• the correct number plate is not attached on a bike rack and the vehicle number plate is obscured by the rack
• the number plate is illegible
• the rack is not removed when the vehicle is being driven without a bike being carried
• the bike rack number plate is not illuminated at night and clearly visible from 20 metres away. Illumination kits are available from most bicycle retail outlets.

Safety Tips

• The sharp edges of the bike rack number plate can be covered by surrounding the bike rack number plate with a protective soft trim surround. These are available for $3.00 each from VicRoads.
• Stoplights, tail lights and vehicle indicators must not be obscured by either the rack or the bicycle(s).
• Make sure that the rack and its attachment to the vehicle (usually the towbar) are strong enough to carry the bicycle(s). (Check with the towbar manufacturer).
• If the bike rack is fitted to the towbar, ensure the towbar is securely attached to the vehicle.

What is the Cost?

Bike rack number plates are available for $22.50 per plate (includes postage and handling). All prices quoted in this brochure may be subject to change.

How do I Order a Bike Rack Number Plate?

There are three easy ways to order your bike rack number plate. Once ordered, your bike rack number plate will be mailed to you. Allow one week for delivery.

1. Order by phone Place a credit card order by contacting VicRoads on 13 1171. Bankcard, MasterCard or VISA is accepted.

2. Order by mail - This is where you can mail the form this info comes from - we can't include it here.

3. Order at a VicRoads office Visit a VicRoads office where cash, cheque, credit card or EFTPOS are acceptable methods of payment for your bike rack number plate.

For more information visit www.vicroads.vic.gov.au.