Here's Why You'll Never Find These Letters on a License Plate

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The vehicle registration system in France follows precise rules, established to ensure clear and unambiguous identification of each vehicle circulating on the territory. Since 2009, the standardized format includes two letters, three numbers, then two letters again, separated by hyphens. This unique alphanumeric combination identifies more than 80 million vehicles. However, some letters will never be part of these combinations, for very specific reasons. Letters banned to avoid confusionRoad safety and vehicle identification rely heavily on the legibility of registration plates. This is why three letters have been permanently removed from the system: the I, the O and the U. This decision is not arbitrary. The I can easily be confused with the number 1, particularly in conditions of reduced visibility or when quickly scanned by law enforcement.

The O, for its part, bears a disturbing similarity to the number 0, which could create harmful identification errors. Finally, the U is excluded because of its resemblance to the V, particularly when the plate is observed from a distance or in motion.

A historical dimension that marks the registration system

Beyond practical considerations, the French registration system also integrates an important memorial dimension. The combination of the two letters S is strictly prohibited on license plates. This prohibition has its origins in the history of the 20th century and more specifically in the desire to avoid any reference to the Schutzstaffel (SS), a criminal organization of the Nazi regime.

This prohibition is part of the broader framework of the French Penal Code, which formally prohibits the display of symbols recalling organizations responsible for crimes against humanity. This provision demonstrates how the registration system adapts not only to practical requirements, but also to the memorial imperatives of our society.

An automated system that guarantees compliance with the rules

The Vehicle Registration System (SIV) assigns numbers chronologically in a single national series. This automation guarantees strict compliance with exclusion rules while ensuring a fair distribution of numbers.

Unlike some countries where it is possible to personalize your license plate, the French system favors standardization and efficiency. This approach avoids administrative complications while maintaining a high level of vehicle traceability.

The allocation process follows an implacable logic. When an owner registers a vehicle, whether new or used, the SIV automatically generates a number that complies with all the constraints.

The system, which has been in place since 2009, allows law enforcement to quickly read and identify vehicles, even in difficult conditions.

• The letters I, O and U are banned to avoid any confusion with numbers or other letters
• The association of the letters SS is prohibited due to its historical connotation linked to the Nazi regime
• The automated system guarantees fair attribution and strict compliance with exclusion rules

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