International vehicle registration code registration plate. When the distinguishing sign is incorporated in the registration plate, it must also appear on the front registration plate of the vehicle. The requirement to display a separate distinguishing sign is not necessary within the European Economic Area, for vehicles with license plates in the common EU format which satisfy the requirements of the Vienna Convention, and so are also valid in non-EU countries signatory to the convention. Separate signs are also not needed for Canada, Mexico and the United States, where the province, state or district of registration is usually embossed or surface-printed on the vehicle registration
Motor vehicle registration is not a mandatory register. Often some proof of entitlement or ownership is required to register a car. A "Certificate of Vehicle Registration" or similar is issued by the state or territory agency, this document can be used as a secondary identity document of the operator. Along with the certificate, the agency also issues vehicle registration number plates. The registration lasts generally for a maximum of a year, after which time the vehicle registration must be renewed. The registration certificate notes the model, make, year, shape, VIN Chasis number and Engine number, weights, engine capacity and number of passengers. A