Illegal number plates explained

Getting a personalised number plate may be a great idea - however, did you know that some number plates can be illegal? Number plates are important because they allow the authorities to identify your vehicle - this could be for traffic collision, criminal purposes or enforcement rules. In our blog, we will be discussing the legalities surrounding number plates and how you could potentially avoid a hefty fine!

The British Standard for number plates

The British Standard sets out the characteristics that is required of number plates. To meet the standard requirements in the UK, each number plate must be permanently and legibly marked with:

• British Standard number
• Name and postcode of the supplying outlet
• Name, trademark or other way of identifying the manufacturer or supplier
• Tinted number plates are illegal as they may obscure the plate from view in different visibility

Not displaying your registration plate at the front of your vehicle and the rear of your vehicle, you are breaking the law. If your number plate has fallen off and is permanently lost, or stolen, you must report this to the police immediately.

Number plate rules

• Font - only 'Charles Wright' font can be used on your number plates, as any other font is illegal to use.
• Size - both letters and numbers must be 79mm tall, and 50mm wide - only the number 1 or letter I is exempt from this rule. The thickness of font has to be 14mm, and the space between the characters should be 11mm.
• You cannot change your number plate - it is illegal to rearrange the letters or numbers on your number plate, as well as altering them so that they're hard to read. Your front plate must have a white background with black letters. You must have a yellow background and black letters on your rear plate.
• Material - your number plate must be made from a reflective material so that it can be read in all weather conditions.
• Flags - you are allowed to display flags on your number plates, but only some are permitted. The legal flags are the Union Jack, EU Flag, Red Dragon of Wales, St George's Cross and Scottish Saltire.

You can find out more about registration plates now from GOV.uk. For help with your registration plates, or any other motoring needs, locate your nearest PTA Garage where one of our specialists can help.