Are 4D Number Plates Legal | DVLA Guide

You may have seen a new style of number plate on UK roads lately with raised characters - These are called 4D number plates.

These plates are new on UK roads, and many have questioned whether or not these 4D number plates are legal in the eyes of the DVLA and UK law. If you have wondered if 4D number plates are legal, we have you covered with a quick and simple guide below.

What Are 4D Number Plates?

4D number plates have been recently introduced on UK vehicles. The main difference between 4D number plates and 3D number plates you may have seen in the past, is that 3D plates don't have raised characters, but are two-toned. These two-tone digits will not be allowed on UK number plates from September 2021 due to stricter definitions of black from the DVLA, and the need to have a clear distinction between the digit and retro-reflective NIR values. This is to assist ANPR cameras pick up your reg. This change comes about because of shift to a new British Standard (BS145e) which will also be enforced from September 2021.

4D number plates are different in that the characters on the registration itself are actually physically raised from the rest of the plate. Adding an extra dimension to the plate, hence the name - 4D number plate.

What about Carbon Fibre Number Plates?

You may also have seen carbon fibre number plates on UK roads, and wondered about their legality.

In previous years, carbon fibre number plates were road legal. However, with the new DVLA standard (BSAU 145e) for car registration plates, carbon fibre number plates are no longer legal on UK roads.

Are 4D Number Plates Legal?

The next question you may have, is are 4D number plates legal in the UK and in the eyes of the DVLA?

The short answer is yes, but only if these 4D number plates meet the standards in place for other registrations by the DVLA. These legally enforced rules and regulations cover character width, spacing, sizing and materials used.

It is of huge importance that these 4D number plates meet the above specification and are made of the correct materials. Failure to do so may see you hit with a hefty fine of up to £1000, and may see your 4D private number plates taken from you by the police. This makes it imperative to always use a registered dealer when buying 4D number plates, and avoid disreputable sellers who may sell you illegal 4D number plates and land you in trouble with the law.

Where Can I Buy 4D Number Plates?

Since our sister company Jepson and Co are the largest manufacturer of physical number plates in the country, you might not be surprised to learn that to purchase a set of road legal 4D number plates we recommend you give them a visit.

However, if you purchase number plates through National Numbers, we offer you the option of adding physical number plates to your order, as well as handling all of the paperwork. These number plates will be sent out directly to you, or to an alternative address if they are a gift.

Give us a call on 01642 363738 to discuss your perfect private registration, and enquire about 4D number plates with our excellent sales staff, who will be more than happy to offer their expert advice.