{
  "id": 15547424,
  "title": "Japan begins accepting custom motorcycle number plate applications",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/19/japan-begins-accepting-custom-motorcycle-number-plate-applications",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-19T03:00:09.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Mainichi",
    "slug": "the-mainichi",
    "url": "https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20261019/p2g/00m/0na/017000c"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "On Monday, Japan's transport ministry commenced accepting applications for personalized motorcycle number plates, broadening a program previously restricted to automobiles. Citizens may submit their requests via the internet or at local reservation centers for their preferred numeric sequences; however, certain numbers, such as 1 and 777, will be assigned through an online lottery due to their anticipated high demand. The associated costs fluctuate by region, ranging from 2,500 yen ($16) to 3,000 yen, which exceeds the fee for a conventional plate without a requested number by over 1,000 yen.\n\nThis initiative extends not only to new motorcycle purchasers but also to existing owners who desire to alter their registration numbers. The program is accessible for lightweight motorcycles with engine capacities between 125cc and 250cc, as well as smaller motorcycles with engine capacities surpassing 250cc. However, it does not extend to commercial vehicles, rental motorcycles, or mopeds with engine capacities of up to 125cc.",
  "summary": "TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan's transport ministry began accepting applications for custom motorcycle number plates on Monday, expanding a program previously",
  "key_points": [
    "Japan's transport ministry accepts custom motorcycle number plate applications.",
    "Application process available online and at local reservation centers.",
    "Costs range from 2,500 yen to 3,000 yen, higher than regular plates."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Expanding personalization options to smaller engine capacities allows motorcycle enthusiasts to express individuality through registration numbers, mirroring a privilege previously reserved only for automobile owners in Japan.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}