In the ever-evolving world of car customisation, number plates are no longer just a legal necessity—they’ve become a statement of style. Over the past few years, 3D and 4D number plates have surged in popularity across the UK, offering drivers a bold, eye-catching alternative to traditional flat plates. But with popularity comes confusion, especially when it comes to what’s legal and what could land you in trouble.
If you’re considering upgrading your vehicle’s plates to something a little more distinctive, it’s important to understand what 3D and 4D plates are, what rules govern their use, and how to make sure you’re staying compliant.
Table of Contents
What Are 3D and 4D Number Plates?
3D and 4D plates are named for the depth of their characters.
- 3D plates use gel resin to create slightly raised, rounded characters. These have a glossy, domed appearance that catches the light and adds subtle depth to the plate.
- 4D plates, on the other hand, feature characters cut from acrylic or other materials and physically affixed to the plate surface, creating a sharper, block-like raised look. They are more prominent and dramatic than 3D plates, giving a more modern, premium feel.
Both styles offer a visual upgrade over flat plates, and for many car owners, they’re a way to add personality and flair to their vehicle.
Why Are They So Popular?
The growing interest in 3D and 4D plates stems from a wider trend in car customisation. Just as alloy wheels, tinted windows, and body kits allow owners to personalise their cars, number plates offer a unique canvas that’s both visible and functional.
Custom number plates—especially when combined with private registrations—let drivers express something personal or meaningful, while stylish formats like 3D and 4D enhance the look even further.
For those who enjoy the aesthetics of a luxury or performance car, the addition of a 4D plate can give a subtle edge of distinction without altering the vehicle itself.
The Legal Side: What’s Allowed (and What’s Not)
In September 2021, the DVLA introduced the BS AU 145e standard, which governs how number plates must be made and displayed in the UK. This standard is designed to ensure plates are durable, legible, and compatible with automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) systems used by law enforcement.
Here’s what you need to know to stay legal:
- Material and construction: Plates must be made from reflective material and comply with specific visibility and durability requirements. 3D gel and 4D acrylic plates can be legal, as long as they meet these standards.
- Font and spacing: Characters must use the mandatory Charles Wright font. Custom or stylised fonts, even if they look “cool,” are not permitted.
- Colour: Front plates must have black characters on a white background; rear plates must have black characters on a yellow background. Any variation—such as tinted plates or coloured characters—is illegal.
- Raised characters: The DVLA does allow raised characters, provided they are legible from all angles and not obscured by the material. The characters should not distort in any lighting or cause reflection issues.
- Supplier information and BS mark: All plates must include the name of the supplier and the British Standard code printed on the bottom. Without these, your plates are considered non-compliant.
Choosing the Right Supplier
With the rise of trendy plate styles, countless suppliers now offer 3D and 4D options. However, not all of them follow the DVLA’s strict guidelines. It’s essential to buy from a reputable, registered dealer who understands the legal standards and produces plates that meet them.
Midway through your search, you may come across names like Regplates, a well-established supplier known for offering DVLA-compliant 3D and 4D plates alongside a wide range of personalised registration options. Trusted suppliers like this will ensure that your chosen plates are not only stylish but road-legal.
What Are the Risks of Non-Compliance?
Driving with illegal plates can result in a fine of up to £1,000, and your vehicle can fail its MOT. Worse still, if your plate is unreadable by ANPR systems, you could miss out on automatic congestion zone billing or fall foul of enforcement systems that rely on number plate recognition.
It’s also worth remembering that if you’re caught with illegal plates, you may be asked to remove them and replace them with compliant ones, at your own expense.
Should You Upgrade to 3D or 4D?
If you’re looking for a way to subtly enhance your vehicle’s appearance without major modifications, 3D and 4D number plates are an excellent choice. They combine visual appeal with personal expression and are a great companion to private registrations.
Just be sure to do your homework, purchase from a reputable supplier, and double-check that the plate meets BS AU 145e standards before fitting it to your vehicle.
To Conclude
3D and 4D plates are more than just a trend—they’re a stylish way to put a personal stamp on your car. But style should never come at the cost of legality. By staying informed and choosing a trustworthy supplier, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: standout design that turns heads and full compliance that keeps you safely on the road.
