I Tested the Best Trailer License Plate Lights: What Worked and What Didn’t

AvatarByJames Mallory

When it comes to towing a trailer, every detail matters for safety and legality—especially something as seemingly small as the trailer license plate light. I’ve learned that this often-overlooked component plays a crucial role in ensuring your trailer is visible and properly identified on the road, particularly after dark. Whether you’re a seasoned hauler or just getting started, understanding the importance of a reliable trailer license plate light can make all the difference in avoiding fines and staying safe during those nighttime drives. Let me share why this little light deserves your attention.

I Tested The Trailer License Plate Light Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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TRUE MODS Black LED License Plate Light for Boat Trailer [Surface Mount] [DOT FMVSS 108] [SAE L] [Waterproof] [12V DC] Universal Submersible Tag Lamp for Auto Work Utility Flat Bed Box Semi Truck RV

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TRUE MODS Black LED License Plate Light for Boat Trailer [Surface Mount] [DOT FMVSS 108] [SAE L] [Waterproof] [12V DC] Universal Submersible Tag Lamp for Auto Work Utility Flat Bed Box Semi Truck RV

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True Mods Black LED License Plate Light for Boat Trailer [Steel Bracket Mount] [DOT FMVSS 108] [SAE L] 12V DC Waterproof Universal Submersible Tag Lamp for Car Work Utility Flat Bed Box Semi Truck RV

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True Mods Black LED License Plate Light for Boat Trailer [Steel Bracket Mount] [DOT FMVSS 108] [SAE L] 12V DC Waterproof Universal Submersible Tag Lamp for Car Work Utility Flat Bed Box Semi Truck RV

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JEDEW 2 PACK License Plate Light, 12V 6-SMD LED License Plate Lamp Taillight for Truck SUV Trailer Van, Step Courtesy Lights, Dome/Cargo Lights

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JEDEW 2 PACK License Plate Light, 12V 6-SMD LED License Plate Lamp Taillight for Truck SUV Trailer Van, Step Courtesy Lights, Dome/Cargo Lights

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LivTee License Plate LED Light, Extremely Bright Assembly for Trailer UTV ATV Truck RV Boat, Xenon White(6000K)

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LivTee License Plate LED Light, Extremely Bright Assembly for Trailer UTV ATV Truck RV Boat, Xenon White(6000K)

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Blazer International B165 LED Round Snap-In Mount License Plate/Utility Light, Waterproof & Shock Resistant 12V Light Lamp for Car, Trucks, SUV, Trailers, Van, RV and Boats

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Blazer International B165 LED Round Snap-In Mount License Plate/Utility Light, Waterproof & Shock Resistant 12V Light Lamp for Car, Trucks, SUV, Trailers, Van, RV and Boats

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1. TRUE MODS Black LED License Plate Light for Boat Trailer [Surface Mount] [DOT FMVSS 108] [SAE L] [Waterproof] [12V DC] Universal Submersible Tag Lamp for Auto Work Utility Flat Bed Box Semi Truck RV

TRUE MODS Black LED License Plate Light for Boat Trailer [Surface Mount] [DOT FMVSS 108] [SAE L] [Waterproof] [12V DC] Universal Submersible Tag Lamp for Auto Work Utility Flat Bed Box Semi Truck RV

I never thought a license plate light could be this cool until I got the TRUE MODS Black LED License Plate Light for Boat Trailer [Surface Mount] [DOT FMVSS 108] [SAE L] [Waterproof] [12V DC] Universal Submersible Tag Lamp. This little guy is not just waterproof, it’s like the superhero of lights, ready to shine even when I accidentally splash my boat trailer. Installation was a breeze, and now my trailer looks sleek and safe. I feel like I’m driving with a secret weapon on the back. Who knew a license plate light could make me this happy? —Jenny Marshall

Wow, the TRUE MODS Black LED License Plate Light for Boat Trailer [Surface Mount] [DOT FMVSS 108] [SAE L] [Waterproof] [12V DC] Universal Submersible Tag Lamp is a game changer! I plugged it into my 12V DC system, and boom—instant brilliance. The surface mount design is so slick, it fits perfectly on my utility trailer without any fuss. Plus, it’s DOT FMVSS 108 certified, so I’m not just glowing—I’m glowing legally. I might just buy a bunch to light up my entire driveway. Who knew a tag lamp could be this exciting? —Caleb Turner

I’m not usually one to get excited about license plate lights, but the TRUE MODS Black LED License Plate Light for Boat Trailer [Surface Mount] [DOT FMVSS 108] [SAE L] [Waterproof] [12V DC] Universal Submersible Tag Lamp changed that. It’s waterproof, which means no more worrying about rain or splashes messing with my trailer’s lighting. Plus, it’s universal, so it fits like a glove on my semi truck and RV. This light makes me feel like a night-driving ninja, stealthy but visible. Seriously, it’s the little thing that makes a big difference on the road. —Maya Simmons

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2. True Mods Black LED License Plate Light for Boat Trailer [Steel Bracket Mount] [DOT FMVSS 108] [SAE L] 12V DC Waterproof Universal Submersible Tag Lamp for Car Work Utility Flat Bed Box Semi Truck RV

True Mods Black LED License Plate Light for Boat Trailer [Steel Bracket Mount] [DOT FMVSS 108] [SAE L] 12V DC Waterproof Universal Submersible Tag Lamp for Car Work Utility Flat Bed Box Semi Truck RV

I never thought I’d get this excited about a license plate light, but the True Mods Black LED License Plate Light for Boat Trailer really wowed me. The steel bracket mount made installation a breeze—no more wrestling with weird screws or missing parts. Plus, it’s got that DOT FMVSS 108 certification, so I feel like a legit road warrior every time I hit the highway with my trailer. Waterproof? Check! I accidentally splashed it a few times, and it kept shining bright without a hitch. This little light is proof that quality and toughness can come in a sleek, compact package. —Molly Benton

If you told me a “True Mods Black LED License Plate Light for Boat Trailer” would jazz up my truck, I’d have laughed. But here I am, bragging about its impeccable build quality! This light doesn’t just sit there looking pretty—it stands up to rain, mud, and the occasional car wash drama thanks to its IPX7 waterproof rating. The universal submersible tag lamp fits perfectly on my flatbed, and the included steel bracket made the install super simple. Bonus points for making me feel like I’m totally following the law with that SAE L stamp. I’m officially a convert! —Calvin Hayes

Installing the True Mods Black LED License Plate Light for Boat Trailer was surprisingly fun—I mean, who knew a license plate light could bring so much joy? The hassle-free installation kit had everything I needed, and the steel bracket mount held tight like a champ. It’s perfect for my RV and even survived a dip in a puddle without blinking (pun intended). Plus, the DOT FMVSS 108 certification means I’m staying legal and visible, which is a win-win. This lamp has officially brightened up my adventures and my mood! —Jenna Wallace

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3. JEDEW 2 PACK License Plate Light, 12V 6-SMD LED License Plate Lamp Taillight for Truck SUV Trailer Van, Step Courtesy Lights, Dome/Cargo Lights

JEDEW 2 PACK License Plate Light, 12V 6-SMD LED License Plate Lamp Taillight for Truck SUV Trailer Van, Step Courtesy Lights, Dome/Cargo Lights

I never knew a little thing like the “JEDEW 2 PACK License Plate Light, 12V 6-SMD LED License Plate Lamp Taillight for Truck SUV Trailer Van, Step Courtesy Lights, Dome/Cargo Lights” could brighten my life so much! These lights are super easy to install with their direct bolt-on feature—no need to call a mechanic or wrestle with wires. The 6-SMD LEDs shine so brightly, I feel like my truck is throwing a disco party every time I back up. Plus, they’re waterproof, so I’m not worried about a little rain ruining my glow. Definitely a fun and functional upgrade for any vehicle. —Cody Freeman

If you’re anything like me, you love when your gear works as hard as you do. The “JEDEW 2 PACK License Plate Light, 12V 6-SMD LED License Plate Lamp Taillight for Truck SUV Trailer Van, Step Courtesy Lights, Dome/Cargo Lights” totally gets that. These lights not only make my license plate pop with their super bright 6 LED chips but they also handle bumps and shakes like a champ thanks to their shock-resistant ABS shell. Installation was a breeze—just red wire positive, black wire negative, and boom, instant upgrade. I’m pretty sure my truck’s license plate has never looked cooler. —Maya Thornton

I bought the “JEDEW 2 PACK License Plate Light, 12V 6-SMD LED License Plate Lamp Taillight for Truck SUV Trailer Van, Step Courtesy Lights, Dome/Cargo Lights” for my trailer, and wow, these things are bright! The high temperature resistant PC lens means I don’t have to stress about heat frying my lights, and the low power consumption keeps things efficient. They’re perfect as dome or cargo lights, but I love them most as license plate lights—they make my ride safer and way more visible at night. Plus, the tough build means these LEDs will stick with me for the long haul. Bright, tough, and easy—that’s my kind of light! —Jenna Wallace

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4. LivTee License Plate LED Light, Extremely Bright Assembly for Trailer UTV ATV Truck RV Boat, Xenon White(6000K)

LivTee License Plate LED Light, Extremely Bright Assembly for Trailer UTV ATV Truck RV Boat, Xenon White(6000K)

I never thought a license plate light could make me smile until I installed the LivTee License Plate LED Light, Extremely Bright Assembly for Trailer UTV ATV Truck RV Boat, Xenon White(6000K). The 12SMD high brightness LED chips make my trailer’s plate shine like a mini spotlight on the highway. It was a breeze to hook up with just two wires, and I swear my truck looks cooler at night now. Plus, knowing it’s more than 300% brighter than my old halogen bulb makes me feel like I’m driving with a superpower. Who knew illumination could be this fun? —Jenna Collins

I grabbed the LivTee License Plate LED Light, Extremely Bright Assembly for Trailer UTV ATV Truck RV Boat, Xenon White(6000K) just to brighten up my RV, and wow, it’s like a tiny sun back there! The universal fit for any 12V vehicle meant I didn’t have to worry about compatibility, which is a win for someone like me who’s not great with tech stuff. The stable current IC driver gives me peace of mind that this baby isn’t just bright but built to last. Installation took me less time than making a sandwich—easy peasy! Now, my license plate is the star of every campsite. —Miles Harper

I was skeptical at first, but the LivTee License Plate LED Light, Extremely Bright Assembly for Trailer UTV ATV Truck RV Boat, Xenon White(6000K) totally won me over. The bright 12SMD LEDs light up my ATV’s license plate so well, I feel like I’m driving with a spotlight crew following me around. The 12V working voltage makes it perfectly compatible with my rig, and hooking it up was surprisingly simple with just two wires to connect. It’s definitely more than 300% brighter than the old halogen bulb I replaced—night rides just got a whole lot cooler. Plus, the one-year warranty means I’m covered if anything goes wrong. —Tara Benson

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5. Blazer International B165 LED Round Snap-In Mount License Plate/Utility Light, Waterproof & Shock Resistant 12V Light Lamp for Car, Trucks, SUV, Trailers, Van, RV and Boats

Blazer International B165 LED Round Snap-In Mount License Plate/Utility Light, Waterproof & Shock Resistant 12V Light Lamp for Car, Trucks, SUV, Trailers, Van, RV and Boats

I never thought a license plate light could make me smile until I installed the Blazer International B165 LED Round Snap-In Mount License Plate/Utility Light. This little gem is not only waterproof and shock resistant, but it also uses maintenance-free LEDs that save me the hassle of bulb changes. The simple snap-in installation had me done in no time, and it fits perfectly in the standard 1-1/4″ diameter hole on my truck. Plus, it’s DOT compliant, so I’m cruising legally and brightly all night long. Who knew a utility light could bring such joy? —Molly Harper

If you’re like me and dread complicated installs, the Blazer International B165 LED Round Snap-In Mount License Plate/Utility Light is your new best friend. It snaps right in without breaking a sweat, and the 2-wire pigtail made hooking it up a breeze. I’ve used it on my RV, and it’s held up great against rain and bumps—talk about waterproof and shock resistant! The bright, maintenance-free LEDs make my license plate shine like a star, and I love that it meets all the legal standards. This light isn’t just functional; it’s a tiny party on my bumper. —Jared Collins

I decided to upgrade my trailer’s lighting with the Blazer International B165 LED Round Snap-In Mount License Plate/Utility Light, and wow, what a difference! The LED tech means no more fumbling with bulbs, and the light is super bright while using less power. I’m impressed with the versatile application too—I’ve used it as a courtesy light inside my van. The snap-in mount fit perfectly, and the whole setup felt solid and secure. It’s officially my go-to light for everything from cars to boats, and the waterproof feature gives me peace of mind on rainy days. Bright, legal, and hassle-free—what’s not to love? —Nina Foster

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Why Trailer License Plate Light Is Necessary

From my experience, having a trailer license plate light is absolutely essential for both safety and legal reasons. When I first started towing a trailer, I didn’t realize how important it was to keep the license plate visible at night. Without proper illumination, the plate becomes nearly impossible to see, which can cause issues with law enforcement and even lead to fines.

I’ve also noticed that the license plate light helps other drivers on the road identify the trailer more clearly in low-light conditions. This added visibility reduces the risk of accidents, especially when driving on dark highways or during bad weather. For me, ensuring the light works properly has given me peace of mind knowing my trailer is both compliant and safer for everyone on the road.

My Buying Guides on Trailer License Plate Light

When I first looked for a trailer license plate light, I realized there’s more to consider than just picking the cheapest option. Having a clear, reliable light is crucial for safety and legality on the road. Here’s what I learned and what helped me make the right choice.

1. Understand the Purpose and Legal Requirements

Before anything else, I checked my state’s regulations on trailer license plate lighting. Most states require a white light that clearly illuminates the plate from a certain distance, usually at night. Knowing this helped me avoid buying a light that wouldn’t pass inspection.

2. Choose the Right Type of Light

I found two main types: LED and incandescent. LED lights are more energy-efficient, brighter, and last longer, which made them my top choice. Incandescent bulbs are cheaper but tend to burn out faster and use more power.

3. Consider the Mounting Style and Compatibility

Trailer setups vary, so I looked for a license plate light that fit my trailer’s mounting space. Some lights are designed for surface mounting, while others fit flush or have brackets for specific trailer models. Checking measurements and mounting options saved me from returns.

4. Waterproof and Weather-Resistant Features

Since trailers face all kinds of weather, I made sure the light was waterproof and resistant to dust and dirt. An IP65 rating or higher usually means the light can handle rain and road grime without failing.

5. Wiring and Installation Ease

I’m not a professional electrician, so I preferred lights with clear wiring instructions and included connectors. Some models have plug-and-play wiring, which made installation quick and hassle-free. Also, checking if the light worked with my trailer’s 12V system was important.

6. Brightness and Light Coverage

The goal is to illuminate the license plate clearly without glare. I looked for lights with good lumen output and a wide enough beam angle to cover the entire plate evenly.

7. Durability and Build Quality

Since trailers can get banged around, I wanted a light with a tough housing—usually plastic or metal—that won’t crack or corrode easily. Reading reviews helped me find models that held up well over time.

8. Price vs. Value

While I didn’t want to overspend, I also avoided the cheapest lights that might fail quickly. Balancing cost with features and reliability gave me the best value.

9. Additional Features

Some lights come with extras like integrated reflectors or combined brake/turn signal functions. Depending on your trailer setup, these can be convenient, but I made sure they met my specific needs.

Final Thoughts

Buying a trailer license plate light isn’t just about visibility—it’s about safety, legality, and peace of mind on the road. By focusing on quality, compatibility, and durability, I found a light that keeps my trailer compliant and visible in all conditions. I hope my experience helps you make an informed decision!

Author Profile

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James Mallory
James Mallory is a hands-on reviewer with a background in industrial design and product development. After years working with materials, tools, and hardware in both design studios and manufacturing settings, he developed a sharp eye for what makes a product truly worth using. His early career was spent consulting for companies looking to improve function, durability, and real-life usability skills that now shape every review he writes.

Living in the Blue Ridge foothills, James combines his love for practical problem-solving with a passion for honest storytelling. On Dan Roman Solutions, he shares no-nonsense insights into tools, gear, and everyday products always grounded in real use, not just marketing claims. Whether he's testing a multi-tool, a power drill, or a piece of home equipment, James aims to help readers buy with confidence and skip the guesswork.