With a new decree (January 21, 2025) from the Italian Ministry of Transport, the previous obligation to use reflective warning plates or repeater plates (third license plate) for bicycle carriers mounted on the trailer hitch will no longer apply. This change considerably simplifies the use of such carrier systems.

Most important changes at a glance:

• No additional signs or warning plates: Bicycle carriers on towbars no longer require reflective markings or additional license plates.
• Direct use of the original license plate: It is sufficient to attach the vehicle's original license plate visibly to the carrier.
• Maintaining safety standards: Lighting and signaling devices of the carrier must continue to comply with legal requirements.

The decree applies to vehicles in categories M1 (passenger cars, SUVs, motorhomes) and N1 (light commercial vehicles). It only applies to carrier systems that are mounted on the trailer coupling. Other types of attachment, such as on the rear door or trunk lid, are not covered by the new regulations and may continue to be subject to separate regulations.

The following safety requirements continue to apply:

• Lighting: All lighting and signaling devices of the vehicle must be correctly replicated by the carrier to ensure road safety.
• Width and overhang: The carrier may exceed the vehicle width by a maximum of 30 centimetres per side. Excess load must be marked.
• License plate mounting: The original vehicle license plate must be clearly visible on the carrier.

The incomprehensible regulation has now finally been repealed. The new decree came into force retroactively from January 1, 2025.

The original decree can be found here: gazzettaufficiale.it