Big change for Irish EV drivers from July

Published on 23 June, 2025

What you need to know before next week

Overview

From 1st July 2025, a new kind of number plate will begin appearing on Irish roads. Known as green flash plates, these will be available for certain electric vehicles – and could become an important marker in Ireland’s shift towards cleaner driving.

1. What are green flash number plates?

Green flash plates are standard Irish number plates, with one key difference: a vertical green band on the left-hand side. From 1st July 2025, this design will be offered on qualifying battery electric vehicles (BEVs), helping to visually identify them on the road.

2. Who can get them?

The green flash plates are exclusively for BEVs – that means 100% electric cars only. If you drive a hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV) or any petrol/diesel model, you're not eligible.

3. Are they mandatory?

No, these plates are optional. If you're registering a new electric vehicle after 1st July, you can request the green flash plate as part of the registration process. You can also request one for an existing BEV, provided it qualifies.

4. Why introduce them now?

The idea is to:

• Highlight zero-emissions vehicles on Irish roads
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• Help identify EVs in public spaces, especially for future incentives like reduced tolls or EV-only parking zones
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• Support public awareness as Ireland continues to roll out its electrification strategy
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• Several other countries already use green plates to unlock EV benefits – and this could follow in time.
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5. Do they come with benefits right now?

Not yet. As of launch, the green flash is symbolic — but it may help pave the way for things like EV-only zones or other local perks. It also makes it easier to spot an electric car, especially in charging bays or low-emission areas.

6. How do I get one?

From 1st July, you can:

• Request a green flash plate when registering a new electric vehicle
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• Apply to have your plate changed if you already own a qualifying BEV. You may need to go through a registered number plate supplier or your local motor tax office.
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7. Will this affect used electric cars?

Yes – if you’re buying or importing a used BEV after 1st July, you can request a green flash plate as part of the re-registration process. It’s a small detail that could help your car stand out in the EV market.

Thinking about going electric?

Browse new and used electric vehicles from trusted Irish dealers on CarsIreland.ie – with reviews, buying guides, and the latest EV news to help you make the switch with confidence.

Sinead McCann

Sinéad is our resident car tester who has the unenviable (-ok, slightly enviable) task of reviewing all the latest new cars to hit the market. You can follow her on Twitter @smcani and on Instagram @whatshedrives