Buy Hyundai Tucson License Plate Bracket

A rear plate bracket is already built into the tailgate garnish, so most owners only add a front holder when local law demands two plates. The most common OEM numbers are 86529-N9010 (2022-25) and 86514-D3000 (2016-21); both accept the same plate and bolt pattern. (OEM Parts Online)

• 2016-2021 (TL) Tucson: Bracket 86514-D3000 fits Eco, Sport, SE, and Limited trims.
• 2022-2025 (NX4) Tucson & Tucson Hybrid: Bracket 86529-N9010 fits SE, SEL, XRT, Limited, Hybrid, and Plug-In.
• N-Line models share the same bumper dimples but may require shorter screws to clear their sport fascia.
• International versions that accept 520 × 110 mm "Euro" plates need a region-specific bracket, not the U.S. 6 × 12 holder. (Wikipedia)

1. Gather tools: #2 Phillips screwdriver, masking tape, and a 3⁄32-in. drill bit for pilot holes (optional).
2. Locate dimples: Lightly press the bracket against the five bumper dimples to check alignment.
3. Drill pilots (optional): A short pilot guides the screw straight and avoids paint chips.
4. Drive bracket screws: Install the three center screws first, then the outer two.
5. Attach plate & frame: Use two shorter M6 screws with nylon washers to avoid scratching the plate or frame.
   A video walk-through of a no-drill plate install shows the same steps if you prefer plastic rivets or bumper plugs . (YouTube)

• Federal rule: FMVSS 108 lets the plate tilt up to 30° upward if the top edge is below 47 in. .
• State rules: Twenty-one U.S. states need only a rear plate; the rest, plus D.C., require both . Some, like California Vehicle Code § 5200, can cite you ≈ $196 for a missing front tag , while Texas Transportation Code § 504.943 allows fines up to $200 .
• Visibility: Keep the plate free of covers or tints that block letters-tickets can apply.

• Q: Which screw size does Hyundai use?
  A: M6 × 1.0 threads; 16-25 mm length works, and stainless versions resist rust . (Reddit)
• Q: Where is the factory bracket in the car?
  A: Most new Tucsons ship with the bracket and screws in a plastic bag under the cargo-floor storage cover .
• Q: Do I have to drill the bumper?
  A: No. The bumper has tiny pilot dimples; use them or choose a grille/tow-hook mount that needs no holes . (CravenSpeed)
• Q: Will a metal frame block the radar?
  A: If fitted in the center recess as designed, it sits below the radar module, so interference is minimal. Keep anything magnetic or reflective away from the radar cover . (Hyundai)
• Q: What size is a U.S. plate?
  A: 6 inches tall by 12 inches wide, with holes 7 inches apart horizontally . (Wikipedia)
• Q: What material is the OEM bracket?
  A: Black ABS plastic that withstands -4 °F to 176 °F without cracking . (Jaycon)
• Q: How tight should I torque the screws?
  A: Hand-tight-about 3 N·m (27 in-lb). Over-tightening strips the plastic tower threads.
• Q: Can I use different screws?
  A: Yes, any M6 × 1.0 stainless or black-zinc screw with a built-in washer works.
• Q: Is a front plate mandatory in my state?
  A: Check your DMV site. As of December 18, 2024, 21 states allow rear-only plates . (Capital One)
• Q: What happens if I drive without the bracket installed?
  A: In two-plate states, police can ticket you; fines vary-California's is about $196 , Texas up to $200 . (Legislative Information, Texas Statutes)
• Q: Will a plate cover cause trouble?
  A: Tinted or reflective covers can be illegal because they reduce readability; many states forbid them.
• Q: Does the bracket affect airflow?
  A: Hyundai's recess sits above the lower grille, so it has little effect on engine-cooling airflow.
• Q: Can I add LED bolts?
  A: Yes, but wire them to the parking-lamp circuit and ensure brightness does not glare other drivers.
• Q: How do I clean bug residue?
  A: Soak with warm soapy water for five minutes, then wipe with a microfiber cloth-no abrasive pads.
• Q: Are European plate adapters available?
  A: Yes; aftermarket frames clip to the existing bumper holes and accept the longer 520 × 110 mm plates.

References

1. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2015/12/17/2015-31353/federal-motor-vehicle-safety-standard-lamps-reflective-devices-and-associated-equipment
2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vehicle_license_plates_of_the_United_States
3. https://www.capitalone.com/cars/learn/finding-the-right-car/do-i-need-a-front-license-plate/3666
4. https://www.jaycon.com/mechanical-thermal-uv-performance-of-abs-plastic/
5. https://www.hyundai.com/content/dam/hyundai/in/en/data/connect-to-service/owners-manual/pc/Tucson.pdf
6. https://www.reddit.com/r/Hyundai/comments/1htk8cr/license_plate_screws/
7. https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=VEH§ionNum=5200
8. https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/StatutesByDate.aspx?code=TN&date=4/28/2015&level=SE&value=504.943
9. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trRS7A9GE1U
10. https://www.cravenspeed.com/the-platypus-license-plate-mount-for-hyundai-tucson-4th-gen-nx4/
11. https://www.reddit.com/r/Hyundai/comments/o9ayao/mounting_a_front_license_plate_to_a_2022_tucson/
12. https://rtbolts.myshopify.com/products/kia-hyundai-phillips-head-license-stainless-bolts-screws-4-m6-x-16mm
13. https://www.reddit.com/r/HyundaiTucson/comments/1ifg86y/2025_tucson_front_license_plate_mount/
14. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vehicle_registration_plate