Where to Mount a License Plate on a Polaris Sportsman 850/1000 or Scrambler

Polaris Sportsman and Scrambler 850/1000 License Plate Bracket

The Polaris Sportsman and Scrambler 850/1000 models combine high horsepower with serious off-road capability. However, owners who need to display an ATV or OHV license plate are often left without a clean factory mounting location.

The Elite Engineering Polaris Sportsman and Scrambler 850/1000 license plate bracket mounts directly to the rear frame and holds a standard 4x7-inch motorcycle or OHV license plate.

It provides a compact, frame-mounted alternative to drilling the bodywork or adapting a universal bracket.

Which Polaris Models Does It Fit?

This bracket is designed for compatible models from 2010 to Current, including:

• Polaris Sportsman 850

• Polaris Sportsman 1000

• Polaris Scrambler 850

• Polaris Scrambler 1000

Because Polaris offered different factory and aftermarket exhaust configurations, compare your ATV carefully with the product photos before ordering.

Important Exhaust Fitment Note

The bracket’s mounting location may interfere with certain factory exhaust packages or aftermarket exhaust systems.

It may not fit if:

• The exhaust exits near the rear-frame mounting location

• An aftermarket muffler occupies the bracket area

• The exhaust piping has been relocated

• A custom exhaust mount blocks the installation point

Inspect the mounting area and compare your exhaust configuration with the product photos and fitment information before purchasing.

Where Does the License Plate Mount?

The bracket attaches directly to existing rear-frame mounting points. This positions the plate close to the ATV while keeping it visible from behind.

The rear-frame mounting location provides several advantages:

• No drilling into plastic body panels

• Reduced plate movement

• Clean, factory-style appearance

• Better support than a thin universal mount

• Plate remains close to the ATV

• No permanent bodywork modification

The flush-mounted design prevents the bracket from extending unnecessarily far behind the machine.

Designed for a Standard 4x7 Plate

The bracket holds a standard 4x7-inch motorcycle or OHV license plate, a common size used for ATV registration plates in the United States and Canada.

Plate dimensions and mounting requirements can vary, so measure your physical plate and verify your local display rules before installation.

For additional information, see our ATV license plate size guide.

No Drilling Required

Installation uses existing rear-frame mounting points, so you do not have to drill holes through the ATV’s plastic bodywork.

Drilling a plate directly into the plastic can eventually cause:

• Cracks around the mounting holes

• Enlarged holes from vibration

• Loose hardware

• Bent body panels

• Permanent damage to the plastics

• A lost license plate

A frame-mounted bracket creates a stronger foundation for the plate and preserves the ATV’s original bodywork.

Black Anodized Aluminum Construction

The bracket is manufactured from aluminum and finished with a black anodized coating.

This provides:

• Lightweight construction

• Resistance to rust and corrosion

• Protection against weather exposure

• Strength for off-road vibration

• A scratch-resistant surface

• A clean appearance that matches the ATV

The black finish helps the bracket blend into the rear frame rather than standing out as a separate accessory.

Built for Mud, Vibration and Rough Terrain

Sportsman and Scrambler models are frequently exposed to mud, water, snow, rocks and heavy vibration.

A weak bracket can flex repeatedly until the plate bends or the mounting hardware loosens. Mounting the plate directly to the bodywork can also place too much stress around the mounting holes.

The Elite Engineering bracket is designed to remain close to the frame and provide a solid mounting surface for the plate.

For additional installation advice, read How to Keep an ATV License Plate From Falling Off.

Installation With Basic Hand Tools

Most riders can complete the installation in less than 15 minutes using basic hand tools.

The mounting process generally involves:

1. Confirming that the exhaust does not interfere with the bracket location.

2. Identifying the existing rear-frame mounting points.

3. Positioning the bracket against the frame.

4. Installing and tightening the included hardware.

5. Attaching the 4x7-inch license plate.

6. Checking tire, suspension and exhaust clearance.

After the first few rides, inspect the mounting hardware and confirm that everything remains tight.

Complete Mounting Kit

The package includes:

• Black anodized aluminum bracket

• Required bracket hardware

• Mounting components for a straightforward installation

No drilling or permanent modification is required on compatible machines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this fit both the Sportsman and Scrambler?

Yes. It is designed for compatible Sportsman 850, Sportsman 1000, Scrambler 850 and Scrambler 1000 models from 2010 to Current. 

Will it work with an aftermarket exhaust?

Not necessarily. Some aftermarket exhaust systems interfere with the rear-frame mounting location. Compare your exhaust with the product photos before ordering.

What size license plate does it hold?

It holds a standard 4x7-inch motorcycle or OHV license plate.

Does installation require drilling?

No. The bracket bolts to existing rear-frame mounting points without drilling the ATV’s bodywork.

Is the mounting hardware included?

Yes. The package includes the bracket and the required installation hardware.

How long does installation take?

Most riders can complete the installation in under 15 minutes using basic hand tools, provided the ATV has a compatible exhaust configuration.

Does Elite Engineering ship to Canada?

Yes. Elite Engineering ships this bracket to both the United States and Canada.

A Clean Rear Plate Mount for Your Polaris

Your Sportsman or Scrambler does not need a flimsy universal bracket, zip ties or holes drilled through the plastic.

The Elite Engineering bracket provides a strong, compact and professional-looking mounting solution designed around the rear frame of compatible Polaris 850 and 1000 models.

Shop the Polaris Sportsman and Scrambler 850/1000 license plate bracket.

You can also browse all Polaris ATV license plate mounts and brackets.