Name: How old are number plates? Tracing their origins in the Czech lands
Uploaded: 2026-01-23T11:22:15+00:00
Channel: Martin Hladík
Description: Exactly 120 years ago, in 1906, the Austro-Hungarian Empire began systematically registering motor vehicles, requiring the few car owners in the Czech lands — then still part of the Empire — to display a clearly visible registration plate. One of the best people to explain the origins of number plates is Martin Leška, chairman of

Photo: Jan Bachorík, Czech Radio

Exactly 120 years ago, in 1906, the Austro-Hungarian Empire began systematically registering motor vehicles, requiring the few car owners in the Czech lands — then still part of the Empire — to display a clearly visible registration plate.

One of the best people to explain the origins of number plates is Martin Leška, chairman of the Association of Friends of Number Plates, which brings together enthusiasts and collectors.

See more here.

Author: Hannah Vaughan, Ľubomír Smatana