How Much Are Black and White Number Plates in NSW? The Complete 2025 Guide
- charlielojera
- Oct 7
- 4 min read
The Plate That Turns Heads
If you’ve ever driven through Sydney, Newcastle, or Wollongong, you’ve probably noticed them: sleek black and white number plates that give cars a clean, premium, and stylish look. Whether on a luxury BMW in Bondi, a classic Holden in Parramatta, or a ute in Dubbo, these plates stand out.
For many NSW drivers, upgrading to black and white plates is one of the easiest ways to personalise their car without spending thousands. But one question always comes up first: how much do black and white number plates cost in NSW?
In 2025, the price of these plates depends on the design, whether they’re standard, personalised, or custom. The cost also varies if you choose slimline, heritage, or premium finishes.
This complete guide will cover everything you need to know:
The exact cost of black and white plates in NSW.
The different styles available.
How to order and install them.
Ongoing fees vs one-off costs.
Pros and cons of choosing these plates.
FAQs from NSW drivers.
By the end, you’ll know whether they’re worth it for your car and budget.
What Are Black and White Number Plates?
Black and white number plates are part of the myPlates program in NSW, managed by Service NSW. They replace the standard yellow plates with a modern monochrome style.
Available designs include:
Black background with white letters (sleek and bold).
White background with black letters (minimal and clean).
Slimline versions for a slimmer look.
Heritage or premium designs for prestige vehicles.
Drivers choose them mainly for aesthetics—your car instantly looks more premium.
How Much Do Black and White Plates Cost in NSW (2025)?
Here’s the breakdown:
Standard Issue Black & White Plates:
One-off fee: From $119 (for standard replacement plates).
Slimline upgrade: About $195–$250.
Personalised Black & White Plates:
One-off setup fee: From $454–$574 depending on character length.
Annual fee: From $109 per year for basic customisation.
Premium combinations (e.g., 2 letters + 2 numbers): Can cost thousands.
Heritage or Prestige Styles:
Can go up to $10,000+ for rare heritage combinations.
Auctioned plates (like “NSW 1” or “88”) have sold for hundreds of thousands.
Important: Prices vary depending on the exact design, size, and customisation. Service NSW updates fees annually, so always check their site before ordering.
Ongoing Costs vs One-Off Costs
One mistake beginners make is assuming the fee is once-off. It depends on the type of plate:
Standard black and white plates: One-off payment, no ongoing fees.
Personalised plates: Annual fee to keep your unique combination.
Premium/heritage plates: High initial cost, sometimes ongoing fees depending on package.
If you only care about the look, go with standard plates. If you want a personal message (e.g., “MYCAR” or “FAST1”), expect ongoing costs.
How to Order Black and White Plates in NSW
The process is simple:
Visit myPlates.com.au or a Service NSW centre.
Choose your design (black background/white text or white background/black text).
Select size (standard or slimline).
Decide if you want personalisation.
Pay the fee (online or in person).
Plates are manufactured and mailed to you or your chosen Service NSW location.
Install them on your vehicle (your old plates must be returned).
Why Choose Black and White Plates?
Pros:
Instantly makes your car look modern and stylish.
Pairs well with almost any car colour.
Affordable one-off option (for standard).
Available in slimline for a sleek finish.
Recognised as a prestige upgrade in NSW.
Cons:
Personalised options can be expensive.
Annual fees for customised plates.
Wait time for manufacturing (can take weeks).
Limited availability of popular combinations.
Can I Transfer My Black and White Plates to Another Car?
Yes. In NSW, you can:
Transfer plates to another vehicle you own (with fees).
Transfer plates to a family member or buyer (common when selling prestige cars).
Service NSW handles transfers, and fees apply.
Are Black and White Plates Legal in NSW?
Yes. All black and white designs offered through myPlates are 100% legal and comply with Australian road standards.
Be cautious of aftermarket “show plates” (like those sold online). These are not road legal and can result in fines if used on public roads.
How Popular Are Black and White Plates in NSW?
Extremely popular. According to Service NSW reports, black and white plates are among the top-selling custom plate styles every year. Many luxury car owners in Sydney prefer them because they look cleaner than the standard yellow plates.
In fact, demand has been so strong that NSW expanded the range with more fonts, slimline sizes, and special finishes.
Cost Comparison: NSW vs Other States
NSW: Black and white plates start from $119 (standard).
Victoria: Custom plates start from around $185.
Queensland: Prestige plates often start higher, with ongoing fees.
This makes NSW relatively affordable compared to some states, especially for standard upgrades.
FAQs:
Q1: What’s the cheapest option?
The cheapest way is to order standard black and white plates (~$119).
Q2: How long does delivery take?
Usually 3–6 weeks after ordering.
Q3: Do I have to pay yearly?
Only if you choose personalised/custom plates. Standard ones are one-off.
Q4: Can I keep my old yellow plates?
No, they must be returned to Service NSW.
Q5: Are slimline plates more expensive?
Yes—usually an extra $100–$150.
Yes, particularly for luxury or classic cars. Some unique combinations even sell for profit.
Conclusion: Are Black and White Plates Worth It?
For NSW drivers in 2025, black and white plates remain one of the best-value upgrades for any vehicle. With prices starting at around $119 for standard replacements, they’re affordable, stylish, and instantly make your car look more premium.
If you’re after something unique, personalised options are available but come with higher costs and ongoing fees. For true collectors, heritage or auctioned plates can be valuable investments.
Whether you drive a family SUV in Penrith, a work ute in Tamworth, or a prestige car in Sydney, black and white plates are a small change that makes a big difference.
So if you’ve been thinking about it, now might be the perfect time to order, your car and your driveway will thank you.
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