08.03.2026 08:34
The General Directorate of Security has published a 3-step guide regarding "APP plates," which can incur a fine of up to 280,000 TL. The statement emphasized that there is no obligation to change the plates printed by TŞOF, which have seals and other security features, while it is highlighted that APP plates must be changed by April 1st.
In a statement made by the General Directorate of Security (EGM), it was expressed that various questions and misinformation regarding vehicle license plates have emerged in the public recently. The statement said, "The standard plates used in Turkey are the plates printed by TŞOF, which have security features along with a seal, and there is no obligation for any change."
APP LICENSE PLATES NEED TO BE CHANGED
In the case of using APP (non-standard) plates, it was stated that a plate change or reprinting is necessary, and "The use of APP plates that do not comply with standard dimensions, do not have a seal and other security features, and are printed in violation of regulations is prohibited. In this case, vehicle owners must apply to police or gendarmerie units to carry out loss/detection procedures, submit a new plate application through a notary, and have their plates printed at units authorized by TŞOF."
DEADLINE: APRIL 1
In the statement, it was noted that if the characteristics and dimensions of TŞOF sealed plates have been altered, vehicle owners can obtain a plate printing request document from a notary and have the same plate reprinted at TŞOF authorized plate printing points. It was stated that "In the case of detecting the use of non-standard plates, an administrative fine is imposed, and vehicles can be banned from traffic until their plates are made compliant. Inspections on vehicles with non-standard plates will be conducted for guidance and information purposes until April 1, 2026, and it is strongly reminded that citizens should only use TŞOF sealed standard plates that comply with regulations in their vehicles to avoid any grievances."
LONG QUEUES FOR LICENSE PLATE CHANGES
After the increase in penalties for thick-font and illegally used APP plates, drivers took action. With the new regulation, a fine of 140,000 TL is imposed on those using APP plates on the first detection, and 280,000 TL for those caught a second time. Additionally, these vehicles can be banned from traffic. Drivers who heard about the fines rushed to change their plates at driver associations, resulting in long queues.
APP PLATE HAS A FINE OF UP TO 280,000 TL
Drivers using non-standard plates can face an administrative fine of 140,000 TL for the first violation. Additionally, there may be sanctions such as the confiscation of the driver's license for 30 days and the vehicle being banned from traffic for 30 days. It is stated that if the same violation is repeated within the year, the fine can rise to 280,000 TL. In this case, there is a possibility of the driver's license being revoked for a longer period and legal processes being initiated. Furthermore, there is a risk of imprisonment from 2 to 5 years under Article 204 of the Turkish Penal Code.
WHAT IS AN APP PLATE?
Plates known as APP plates are defined as plates printed outside standard dimensions and font types, and do not carry official security features. These plates are generally preferred for aesthetic purposes as they are prepared with thicker and different fonts.
The plates known as "APP plates" in the public have a different legal status. According to the fifth paragraph of Article 23 of the law, if the plates are not printed by the authorized institution, they are considered legally invalid. According to the statements of the General Directorate of Security, these types of plates are not accepted as compliant with official standards. Therefore, if their use is detected, administrative sanctions can be imposed on drivers.