A Guide to Iraqi License Plates

Iraqi license plates up through the Gulf War (1991) are made of a lightweight aluminum material. Most notably, the Iraqi Jihm acceptance stamp is located on the left facing side of the license plate which, differentiates it from the license plates that were used during OIF (2003). Iraqi license plates during this time also have rounded corners and a more pronounced stamp.

Iraqi Armored Vehicle license plates can be identified by the addition of a مع symbol to the right of the Iraqi Jihm acceptance stamp. The construction of these license plates (Excluding the additional marking) are identical to that of the standard military vehicle plate used up until the Gulf War.

Iraqi motorcycle vehicle license plates can be identified by their distinct shape and attributes that are not seen on the standard Iraqi military vehicle license plate. Most notably, the Iraqi Jihm acceptance stamp is located on the bottom left facing corner and the Arabic word for bike “ دراجة “ in on the lower right facing corner. The construction of these license plates are similar in material but different in shape. The Iraqi motorcycle plates are taller in height and more square compared to the standard Iraqi military vehicle license plate.

Iraqi military vehicle license plates during the transitional era of 1991-2003 see a small change compared to that of the license plates used during the Gulf War. Most notably, the Iraqi Jihm acceptance stamp has been moved to the right facing side of the plate. Moreover, the license plates begin having squared corners, less pronounced stamps, and are finished with lower quality paint.

Iraqi military vehicle license plates following OIF (Post 2003) are very similar in style and construction to the Iraqi military vehicle license plates used during the transitional period (1991-2003). The most notable change seen with post 2003 Iraqi military vehicle license plates are that of coloring and size. Looking at color, a bright green color has become standard amongst most plates, compared to the wide variety and more dull colors seen previously. Looking at sizing, post 2003 era license plates have also become slightly larger.

Iraqi License Plates With Rivets

Iraqi license plates with the original rivets attached can be difficult to find. This is primarily because license plates were often ripped off of vehicles, causing the rivets to fall off.