Spanish License Plates Once Common in Parts of Morocco, Reflecting Colonial History

The Spanish registration system, born in the 20th century, has evolved to meet the requirements of the automotive sector and European standards. The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) now ensures its uniformity, facilitating the identification of vehicles in Spain and internationally. But behind this regulatory facade lie little-known historical episodes, particularly related to the history of Morocco.

There was a time, not so long ago, when part of the Moroccan territory used... Spanish license plates. A direct legacy of the Spanish protectorate, illustrating the complex - and sometimes surprising - links between the two countries.

For nearly three decades, from 1929 to 1956, vehicles circulating in the areas under Spanish protectorate in Morocco bore the "ME" (Marruecos Español) code. The OK Diario media reports that this system had been set up to simplify administrative management and clearly distinguish the vehicles of the African territories from those of the Iberian Peninsula. A distinction that faded with the independence of Morocco, but of which traces remain.

These "ME" plates, once common, have become collector’s items, sought after by automotive history enthusiasts. They recall a bygone era, when administrative borders did not quite coincide with national borders.

While the history of Morocco and its "ME" plates is the most striking, it is not unique. Other territories, such as Tangier (with the "T" or "TA" codes) or Spanish West Africa (with the "AOE", "I/IF" and "SHA/SH" (Western Sahara) codes), have also known specific registration systems under Spanish administration.